The New Jersey Head Start Association brought Head Start leaders from across the state together in August for three days of connection, collaboration, and planning for the future.

Held August 11–13 at the Chauncey Inn & Conference Center in Princeton, the 2026 NJHSA Board/Director’s Affiliate Retreat centered around the theme, “Rooted & Rising: Strategy, Sustainability, and Service for New Jersey’s Youngest Learners.”

Bringing New Jersey Head Start Leaders Together

One of the highlights of this year’s retreat was the strong statewide participation. Representatives from 17 of New Jersey’s 25 Head Start grant recipients joined us, creating an important opportunity to exchange ideas, strengthen relationships, and discuss the issues affecting programs across New Jersey.

The retreat began with dedicated Board time focused on reflecting on the past year, team building, leadership transition planning, and NJHSA’s five-year strategic plan.

Board members and Directors Affiliate attendees then came together for networking, professional development, strategic planning, and conversations with guest speakers and partners.

Learning From Our Partners

Throughout the retreat, attendees heard from organizations and partners bringing valuable perspectives and resources to the Head Start community.

Sessions included Torsh on supporting language, literacy, and multilingual learners, along with contributions from the New Jersey Department of Education, Teachstone, Lakeshore, Lee & Low Books, The Apprenticeship Network, and others.

A special thank you to Torsh Inc. for supporting the Director’s Retreat and sharing how Torsh and SESEBA can help early childhood organizations strengthen their work with educators and young learners.

Rooted in Our Mission, Rising Together

Beyond the presentations and planning sessions, the retreat provided something equally valuable: time for New Jersey’s Head Start leaders to connect with one another.

These opportunities for collaboration help strengthen not only NJHSA, but the network of programs serving children and families throughout our state.

Thank you to our Board, Directors Affiliate members, guest speakers, partners, and everyone who participated in this year’s retreat. We are grateful for the ideas, experiences, and commitment each attendee brought to Princeton.

As we look toward the year ahead, we remain rooted in our shared mission and ready to continue rising together for New Jersey’s youngest learners.