NYSHSA is an organization that represents the interests of the entire New York State Head Start community, including:

• Children
• Families
• Programs
• Communities

NYSHSA represents its members at the state, Region II, and national levels.

NYSHSA represents:

• Over 200 Head Start programs
• Thousands of children and their families

NYSHSA membership is open to individuals interested in the support of Head Start programs in New York State. The Association includes four affiliates:

• Staff
• Parents
• Directors
• Friends

NYSHSA members have the opportunity to participate in an affiliate and the larger Association.

Association members and agencies commit to pay annual dues to support NYSHSA work throughout the year.

Meetings are held four times a year. The fall meeting is held in conjunction with the Region II Head Start Association. (New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands)

Meetings are held in a variety of locations in New York State. In recent years, NYSHSA has held its:

• Winter meeting in Albany
• Spring meeting in conjunction with other early childhood organization conferences or events
• Fall meeting in conjunction with regional meetings
• Summer meeting in various locations around the state

The NYSHSA Board is the policy maker for the Association.,

The NYSHSA Board of Directors is comprised of thirty members. Affiliates elect their own representatives to the board including:

• 7 parents
• 7 staff
• 7 directors
• 7 friends
• 2 members at large

NYSHSA membership provides many benefits. They include:

• Increased networking with other Head Start professionals
• Increased educational opportunities through participation in conferences and special NYSHSA events
• Participation in NYSHSA policy development and state decision making
• Opportunities to develop personal leadership skills and to provide guidance from within the Association.
• Opportunities for scholarships and employment
• Information on changes in state and federal policies that effect Head Start programs