National Head Start Association

NHSA Academy


The NHSA Academy offers credentials that are designed to:

 

  • Address specific areas of the Head Start Program Performance Standards.
  • Help learners achieve knowledge and/or skill base in their specific learning areas.

The NHSA Academy has served the Head Start community for more than 10 years and offers four credentialing opportunities to meet the current and emerging needs of Head Start professionals.

 

Academy Distance Learning Credentials

 

NHSA offers two self-study credentials that can be completed without any travel at all. Designed for family service workers and health service workers, participants work from a portfolio which is evaluated by NHSA selected experts. Interested individuals can register at anytime throughout the year. Continuing Education Units are offered to candidates who successfully complete these credentials.

 

Head Start Basic Family Services Credential

 

The Basic Family Services Credential develop family service workers’ skills in twelve competency areas, including partnering with families, implementing the family goal setting process, developing parent involvement in child development and program governance, and providing family support in all service delivery areas. Each competency area corresponds to a component of the Head Start Program Performance Standards.

Quote: “I have worked with 22 family advocates in obtaining this credential (Basic Family Services). By the time they have completed their ‘notebooks’ they are able to access information needed as well as know their job responsibilities for their positions. We will continue to use this credential as we have new family advocates. Again, I say thanks for a job well done!” – Head Start Program Family Services Advisor

 

Head Start Health Services Credential

 

The Basic Health Services Credential develops health workers’ skills in twelve competency areas, including child health and development services, implementing health and safety practices, individualized services for children, and health and wellness services. Each competency area corresponds to a component of the Head Start Program Performance Standards.

Online Registration 

Credential Registration Form (Microsoft Word Document)

Credential Registration Form (Fillable PDF)

Credential Q & A

Registrations are accepted year-round.