As educators, we are guided by one principle above all—children come first. Any policy that threatens their well-being, stability or opportunity to thrive must be met with firm opposition. We stand with Attorney General Bonta and the coalition of states fighting to protect access to essential programs like Head Start and we are proud that California continues to lead the way in defending the rights and dignity of all children. 

The Trump administration’s abrupt directive restricting access to public benefit programs puts young lives at risk by cutting off the very support systems meant to protect them. Every child, without exception, deserves the opportunity to thrive, to learn and to be healthy. 

Head Start provides critical educational, nutritional and health services to young children and their families. When children are denied access to these foundational supports, the ripple effects are felt across our schools and communities, leading to increased challenges in academic achievement, health outcomes and social integration. 

Investing in the health and education of all children is investing in the strength and prosperity of our entire community. We stand firmly against any policy that would penalize children for circumstances beyond their control or that would create unnecessary obstacles to their fundamental rights to education and well-being. We urge policymakers to prioritize the needs of children above all else and to ensure that all families have access to the resources necessary for their children to succeed.