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Head Start and early‑childhood advocates urge continued county funding for programs and workforce development

3062544 · April 19, 2025

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Summary

Lahaina Head Start parents and program directors described benefits to children and families, cited enrollment and workforce statistics, and asked the Budget Committee to continue funding for classrooms, extended‑day services and job pathways for Head Start parents.

Representatives from Lahaina Head Start and program partners told the County Budget Committee that county funding supports classrooms, workforce development and family stability for participants across West Maui.

A parent testified about the program’s benefits for her daughter, citing improvements in socialization and communication. Debbie Amoral, program director for Lehi Head Start, said the county has funded Head Start for many years and provided statistics: the program serves 160 children and families in eight centers countywide, 95% of families in extended‑day centers have one or more parents working, 41% of families are two‑parent households and 59% are single‑parent households.

Amoral said 36% of Head Start employees are current or former Head Start parents, and that several employees are enrolled in credentialing or degree programs. She thanked the council for previous support and asked for continued investment in the program, noting long‑term benefits to child development and workforce stability.

Public testimony also mentioned the Imagination Library book program and county early‑childhood coordination staff as valuable supports for families and educators.