The Wisconsin Department of Justice has taken a firm stand against proposed federal changes to the Head Start program
Oct 8, 2026, 9:25 AM CT
Share
The Wisconsin Department of Justice has taken a firm stand against proposed federal changes to the Head Start program, joining a coalition of state attorneys general in opposing a rule change that could reshape early childhood education across the nation. The proposed rollbacks target longstanding performance standards designed to ensure low-income children receive comprehensive health, nutritional, and educational support before entering elementary school.
Critics of the proposed HHS changes point to key provisions that would significantly cut administrative funding allocations, lower staff qualification thresholds, and introduce strict new instruction mandates. Advocates emphasize that Head Start serves as a critical bridge for vulnerable families, providing vital access to early learning opportunities in communities facing severe childcare shortages.
Todd Coppernoll oversees local news for WRCO and WRCE radio in Richland Center. Having served Richland Center as Mayor for three terms, Todd brings a unique perspective, and a familiar voice to the news. The focus is local, and so is the reporter.
Adam Hess has been involved in radio broadcasting since 1990, with many of those years spent on the air at WRCO FM in Richland Center. Currently, Adam hosts the Weekend Wake-up and Prime Mover Saturdays on WRCO FM, jumps in and helps out with news duties, handles Social Media duties for WRCO and WRCE, and is the Director of Technology at a Southwest Wisconsin School District. Reach him at adam.hess@civicmedia.us.
