Growing with Intention: Strengthening Early Learning Across Pennsylvania

Nearly 600 representatives from Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts (PKC) and the Head Start Supplemental Assistance Program (HSSAP) recently came together in Blair County for the May 2026 PKC & HSSAP Grantee Gathering, a dynamic event rooted in the theme: Honor What Exists • Reinforce What Matters • Grow with Intention.

Across the commonwealth, PKC and HSSAP programs are making a powerful impact on children, families, and educators. This gathering served as an opportunity to deepen that impact, bringing together state and national experts to share insights and strengthen the systems that support this essential work.

Throughout the conference, participants had the opportunity to:

• Celebrate and reflect on the strong practices already in place
• Strengthen and sustain the systems that drive program success
• Discover and apply intentional strategies for continued growth and improvement

Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts, established by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, expands access to high-quality pre-kindergarten for children and families statewide. Learn more about PA Pre-K Counts.

Similarly, Pennsylvania’s Head Start Supplemental Assistance Program provides critical state funding to support Head Start programs serving three- and four-year-olds from families living at or below 100% of the federal poverty level. Learn more about HSSAP.

Together, PKC and HSSAP open doors to opportunity, offering eligible families access to high-quality early learning programs at no cost, helping set a strong foundation for lifelong success.