MILWAUKEE — Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) said it was told Thursday federal financial assistance for its Head Start program will be suspended for 30 days. 

The suspension goes into effect on May 21, 2024. The grant was approved through May 30, 2024.

MPS said the funding suspension will not impact staff, students of family in the program. Head Start activities and curricula will continue through the end of the 2023-24 school year, as planned.

According to MPS, the Administration of Children and Families (ACF) said the decision to suspend funding was based on three program deficiences. ACF said those deficiences occurred between June 2022 and May 2024. In a press release, MPS did not state what those were.

“MPS has worked diligently to correct issues identified and continues to work with Head Start to ensure future plans demonstrate the district’s commitment to meeting federal requirements,” MPS said.

MPS’ Head Start program is a free preschool program to help kids get ready for kindergarten and develop learning skills. Students whose families meet certain income parameters are eligible to enroll. There are full-day options for K3 and K4 students; there are also English and English/Spanish bilingual options for students. Students are enrolled for a school calendar year and follow that schedule.

MPS’ Head Start program also includes health, dental, mental health and disabilities support. Breakfast, lunch and snacks are provided. Transportation is also available for Head Start students.

“MPS’ Head Start program is one of the longest-standing in Wisconsin. The district is proud of its work providing essential, high-quality, developmentally appropriate, early childhood programs to students, and of the support provided to families,” MPS said.