Director Garvin Introduces the Tribal Request for Information

Tribal Request for Information Resources

Director Khari Garvin: Hello everyone. I am Khari Garvin, Director of the Office of Head Start. I hope this message finds you well. Tribal Head Start is so very important. Prioritizing and directing resources to American Indian and Alaska Native programs is critical for meeting federal trust responsibility; preserving and promoting Native language, culture, and traditions; and addressing the impact of historical trauma on Native Americans.

Just a few weeks ago, on March 23, President Biden signed into law a new provision that gives Tribes increased flexibility in determining which children are eligible for Tribal Head Start programs. We celebrate this legislative change with you with the hope that it will better meet the needs of Tribal communities.

I am also excited to announce the Office of Head Start’s Tribal Request for Information, or as I will refer to it, the “RFI.” The RFI is a formal request for information that informs sub-regulatory guidance; the training and technical assistance that is available to you; future regulations; and gives our Office the opportunity to amplify and uplift best practices.

The Tribal RFI topics were selected based on the feedback we have heard from our Tribal partners – topics that need more attention and conversation. Here are some important things to remember. The Tribal RFI public comment period ends September 16, 2024. Comments can be submitted directly to the Federal Register or by email to AIANHeadStart at acf dot hhs dot gov. We will provide several opportunities to hear from you with virtual listening sessions in May and June and an in-person Tribal Consultation this summer.

Please look out for future announcements from our Office on how to register for these events. Also, don’t forget to check out the Tribal RFI page on the ECLKC website. You will find all the Tribal RFI resources there as well as the link to the RFI. We really hope to hear from each of you! The Office of Head Start looks forward to our continued partnership and we thank you for making a home at Head Start for children and families in your community!