Generally, no, Head Start employees are not federal employees. The employment status of individuals working within Head Start programs depends on their specific role and the nature of the employing entity.
Understanding Head Start Employment
Head Start programs are primarily operated by local non-profit organizations, school districts, and other community-based agencies that receive federal grants from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Consequently, the vast majority of individuals working in Head Start centers—such as teachers, assistants, administrators, and support staff—are employed by these local grantee organizations, not directly by the federal government. Their compensation, benefits, and employment terms are managed by the local entity.
Status of Head Start Fellows
While the general rule applies, there are specific classifications, such as Head Start Fellows, whose relationship with the federal government is distinct and legally defined. These individuals are generally not considered employees or in the service or employment of the Federal Government. However, a significant exception applies to their status: for the specific purpose of compensation for injuries, Head Start Fellows are indeed considered to be federal employees. This provision falls under chapter 81 of title 5 of the U.S. Code, ensuring that they are covered for work-related injuries as if they were federal employees.
This distinction highlights the varied employment relationships within the broader Head Start system, where roles like Head Start Fellows are subject to unique federal provisions, unlike the typical employees of local Head Start programs.
Key Employment Statuses in Head Start
To clarify the different statuses, consider the following breakdown:
| Employee Type | Employing Entity | Federal Employee Status (General) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Program Staff | Local Head Start Grantee (Non-profit, School, etc.) | No | Employed by the local organization that receives federal grants to run the program. |
| Head Start Fellows | Defined by federal statute | Generally No | Considered federal employees specifically for compensation for injuries purposes. |
| Federal Agency Staff | U.S. Department of Health and Human Services | Yes | Employees of HHS who administer the Head Start program at the federal level. |
In summary, while the federal government funds Head Start programs, most on-the-ground employees are not federal employees. Special provisions, however, exist for specific roles like Head Start Fellows regarding certain benefits.
