Child Care in the News: ICWA Debates, Head Start at Risk, and Rising Workforce Alarms
- Apr 6
- 2 min read
This week’s headlines span from state-level Indian Child Welfare Act protections to federal investigations and persistent workforce and funding struggles. Head Start, one of the nation's oldest child care programs, turns 60 under a cloud of uncertainty, while the cost of care remains “absurdly expensive” for families and nearly unsustainable for providers.
Montana Senate Backs State-Level Indian Child Welfare Act
The Daily Montanan reports that Montana lawmakers approved a bill to enact a state version of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), ensuring protections for Native children and families remain strong regardless of federal changes.
Utah’s ICWA Bill Remains in Limbo
In contrast, KUER highlights how Utah’s attempt to pass its own ICWA bill has again stalled. Advocates fear political roadblocks are putting Native children at risk, especially after the federal ICWA was challenged at the national level.
Minnesota’s Supreme Court Revisits ICWA Case
ICT News reports on a high-profile Minnesota Supreme Court case challenging the application of ICWA in a family dispute. The outcome could set national precedent, especially as state-level laws are developed or debated.
House Committees Demand Investigation into Indian Boarding Schools
In a related story, ICT News shares that House committees are calling for a federal investigation into the legacy and practices of Indian boarding schools, pushing for accountability and recognition of historic harm.
Head Start Leaders Warn of Closures and Funding Crisis
AP News and ABC News report that federal funding cuts and layoffs are pushing Head Start centers across the country toward closure. Leaders say the loss of these programs would devastate vulnerable communities and eliminate access to vital early education for thousands of children.
GSA’s Federal Child Care Centers Are Shrinking
The Washington Post reports that child care centers in federal buildings are closing due to high rent and staffing challenges. These centers were once a model of federal support for working parents—but many are now shuttered or under-enrolled.
Early Learning Workforce in Crisis—Still
EdSurge warns that the early learning workforce continues to shrink, with low wages and high stress driving educators out of the field. The article emphasizes that none of this is surprising—and yet it remains largely unaddressed by national policy.
The Cost of Child Care Is Still “Absurdly Expensive”
The Guardian shares personal stories from families across the U.S. struggling to afford care. Some are paying more than their rent or mortgage—and many can’t find reliable programs even if they can pay.
Head Start Turns 60—But Will It Make It to 61?
The Hechinger Report looks at Head Start’s 60th anniversary and the future of the program amid federal threats, center closures, and workforce strain. It highlights the program’s legacy—and the danger of losing it.
