Springfield College School of Human Services and the National Head Start Association Formalize Relationship

Springfield College School of Human Services (SHS) and the National Head Start Association (NHSA) signed a memorandum of understanding in August 2013.  

It is the philosophy of the National Head Start Association that every child, regardless of circumstances at birth, has the ability to succeed in life. The opportunities offered by Head Start lead to healthier, empowered children and families, and stronger, more vibrant communities. NHSA is the voice for more than 1 million children.

Under the agreement, the Springfield College School of Human Services will award as many as 18 credits for NHSA members who have successfully completed child development associate (CDA) courses, and who are enrolled in the bachelor of science in human services program in SHS.  Additionally, SHS will award up to 15 credits of experiential learning for NHSA members who have completed CEUs from NHSA conferences and trainings and who are enrolled in the undergraduate SHS programs.

The National Head Start Association is pleased that its members can earn these credits for their training, which ultimately reduces tuition costs and recognizes the experiences they bring to the SHS program.

Jane Adams, NHSA’s director of projects and partnerships, said, "NHSA's partnership with Springfield College is a valuable opportunity for NHSA members in Head Start programs across the country to gain important academic credentials and develop the skills and knowledge they need to keep Head Start at the forefront of the early education field."

Springfield College School of Human Services is committed to providing broadly accessible higher education in human services for adult learners that embodies the principles of Humanics, community partnership, and academic excellence to achieve social and economic justice. NHSA and SHS share a commitment to advancing social justice through excellent early childhood education.

Announcing an alliance between the two institutions, Robert J. Willey, Jr., dean of the Springfield College School of Human Services, said, “We are excited about working closely with the National Head Start Association. We are impressed by the similarities between our organizations and look forward to exploring ways in which we can offer educational opportunities to NHSA and its members."

The School of Human Services offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in human services at 10 campuses across the United States Campuses in Orange County, Calif., Wilmington, Del., Tampa Bay, Fla., Boston and Springfield, Mass., Manchester, N.H., Charleston, S.C., and St. Johnsbury, Vt., offer the undergraduate concentration in early childhood education. Other SHS campuses are located in Houston, Texas and Milwaukee, Wis. Many alumni from throughout the 25-year history of the School are Head Start teachers, directors, and advocates.