Virgin Islands Head Start Funding Slashed by $4 Million Amid Enrollment Shortfall
Federal funding for early childhood education just took a major hit in the Virgin Islands—and the government’s explanation is raising eyebrows.
The Virgin Islands Department of Human Services (DHS) has confirmed a significant reduction in federal support for its Head Start program, with the annual grant dropping from $14.3 million to $10.2 million beginning July 1. The nearly 30% cut follows a federal review by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which cited enrollment levels far below the minimum threshold required to justify full funding.
Why the Funding Was Cut
According to DHS Commissioner Kimberley Causey-Gomez, the current average daily attendance across the Virgin Islands is just 390 children, despite the federal funding being intended to support up to 620. That’s a 37% shortfall—a figure that automatically triggers a funding reduction under federal Head Start guidelines unless compelling mitigating circumstances can be demonstrated.
“We believe the decline in enrollment is linked to a range of post-COVID challenges,” Causey-Gomez said, “including lack of accessible facilities and the unique geographic barriers of our territory.”
DHS has submitted an appeal to HHS, arguing that the Virgin Islands faces structural issues that make it difficult to maintain full enrollment. These include ongoing recovery from hurricane damage, persistent staffing shortages, and transportation limitations between islands.
Public Frustration and Unmet Demand
But the federal justification has opened up a deeper concern: while DHS claims enrollment has dropped, many parents and guardians report being turned away or placed on long waitlists. In several areas, Head Start centers remain closed or severely understaffed, making it impossible for children to attend—even if the demand exists.
This disconnect raises serious questions about whether the enrollment drop reflects true lack of interest, or simply administrative and operational failings within DHS’s ability to deliver services. Several facilities reportedly have the capacity but not the staff to operate at full capacity, a problem that federal authorities do not necessarily consider when evaluating funding eligibility.
What’s at Stake
The Virgin Islands’ Head Start program provides comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income families. The loss of $4.1 million means not only fewer seats, but also reduced services for those still enrolled.
DHS has not yet clarified whether it will seek territorial funds to close the gap. If the appeal fails and no additional funding is secured, class sizes, staffing levels, and educational programming will all be affected.
“This is federal money—once it’s gone, it’s not guaranteed to come back,” said a former Head Start administrator who spoke to VI Update on condition of anonymity.
Appeal in Progress, But No Timeline Given
DHS officials say they are actively engaging with federal partners and hope to reverse or delay the funding cut. However, with the reduction set to take effect in July, the timeline for any potential resolution is short—and uncertain. No formal response to the appeal has been made public.
In the meantime, affected families are left scrambling. With many already struggling to access early childhood care due to distance or lack of transportation, the reduction threatens to worsen educational disparities across the territory.
Call for Public Input
VI Update is seeking stories from families impacted by these changes. If you or someone you know has been affected by Head Start facility closures, staff shortages, or long waitlists, please contact us directly or share your story in the comments.
Early education is critical to long-term success—and every lost seat is a lost opportunity.
This is a developing story. VI Update will continue to monitor the appeal process and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Sources
Where We Started: Virgin Islands Head Start Funding Slashed in USVI Amid Enrollment Drop — DHS Plans Appeal
