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MPS Head Start program suspended for 30 days

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The Administration for Children and Families is suspending federal financial support for MPS’ Head Start program for 30 days. According to a statement from MPS, the school district received a notice from ACF on Thursday alerting the district that the Head Start program will be suspended. ACF told MPS the decision was based on “three program deficiencies” that occurred between June 2022 and May 2024.12 News reached out to ACF on Monday and asked what those deficiencies specifically were. According to a statement from ACF, MPS “has failed to establish and implement a system for continuous monitoring to ensure the safety of children in their Head Start program.” MPS cannot spend Head Start funds until the child safety issues are addressed. The suspension takes effect Tuesday. However, MPS’s Head Start grant has been approved through May 30, 2024. All Head Start activities will operate as planned through the end of the school year. According to ACF, these deficiencies force MPS to compete for continued funding. Financial awards are expected by the end of May. In a statement, MPS said the district is working to correct problems and comply with federal requirements. Head Start is a program of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It provides free early childhood education and meals to low-income families. MPS Head Start offers full-day K3 and K4 programs that follow the same schedule as the school calendar. Breakfast, lunch and a snack are included.

MILWAUKEE-

The Administration for Children and Families is suspending federal financial support for the MPS Head Start program for 30 days.

According to a statement from MPS, the school district received a notice from ACF on Thursday alerting the district that the Head Start program would be suspended. ACF told MPS that the decision was based on “three program deficiencies” that occurred between June 2022 and May 2024.

12 News reached out to ACF on Monday to ask what those deficiencies were specifically. According to a statement from ACF, MPS “has not established and implemented a system for continuous monitoring to ensure the safety of children in their Head Start program.” MPS cannot spend Head Start funds until the child safety issues are addressed.

The suspension takes effect on Tuesday. However, MPS’s Head Start grant was approved through May 30, 2024. All Head Start activities will continue as planned through the end of the school year. According to ACF, these deficiencies require MPS to compete for continued funding. Financial grants are expected by the end of May.

In a statement, MPS said the district is working to correct problems and comply with federal requirements.

Head Start is a program of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It provides free early childhood education and meals to low-income families. MPS Head Start offers full-day K3 and K4 programs that follow the same schedule as the school calendar. Breakfast, lunch and a snack are included in the price.

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