About TXHSA
SUPPORTING TEXAS'S HEAD START COMMUNITY- TOGETHER.
The Texas Head Start Association (TXHSA) is the unified voice for Head Start and Early Head Start programs across the state. We believe that every child deserves a strong start—and every program deserves strong support. TXHSA exists to strengthen, represent, and connect the Head Start network in Texas, ensuring that children and families thrive through high-quality early childhood education.
Who We Are
Founded to elevate the voices of the Texas Head Start programs, TXHSA brings together program directors, educators, families, advocates, and policymakers who are committed to equity, opportunity, and lifelong success for young children.
We proudly:
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SPEAK on behalf of the Texas Head Start children and families.
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REPRESENT our programs at the state and national levels.
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ADVOCATE for resources, policies, and systems that uplift early learning.
From small rural communities to the largest cities, our members span the entire state—and so does our impact.
Our Mission
To speak, represent, and advocate for the early childhood programs and professionals who serve Head Start children and families in Texas.
Our Vision
A Texas where every child—regardless of income, zip code, or background—has access to a safe, nurturing, and high-quality early childhood education that sets the foundation for a lifetime of success.
Our Impact
TXHSA’s work affects thousands of children and families across Texas each year. Through professional development, legislative advocacy, and resource sharing, we serve as a cornerstone of progress and support for the Head Start community.
100+ Head Start and Early Head Start Grantees Supported
Thousands of Educators Empowered
Statewide Advocacy and Policy Representation
Resources for Program Excellence and Family Engagement
Our Core Values
In Texas, every child—regardless of income, zip code, or background—has access to a safe, nurturing, and high-quality early childhood education that sets the foundation for a lifetime of success.
ADVOCACY
We raise our voices to protect and grow Head Start programs.
PROFESSIONAL
TRAINING
We thrive through strong partnerships and shared goals.
TRAINING
We strive for the highest standards in early childhood education.
NETWORKING
We welcome and reflect the diverse communities we serve.
Honoring a Legacy of Leadership, Service & Unshakable Faith
Mr. Albert L. Black
Albert L. Black (1949–2024) lived a life defined by purpose, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every child and every community he touched. Born in Crockett, Texas, and raised in the close-knit community of Halls Bluff, Mr. Black grew up in a home where faith, family, and service were a daily practice. Those early lessons shaped a leader whose influence would ripple across Texas for more than five decades.
A gifted student and natural communicator, Albert graduated from Ralph J. Bunche High School in 1967, where he excelled academically, played in the band, sang in the choir, and served as the school newspaper's editor. His leadership earned him an academic scholarship to Paul Quinn College, followed by a master’s degree in education from Prairie View A&M University.
Mr. Black began his career as an elementary school teacher in Waco ISD, but his talent for inspiring others quickly propelled him into leadership. At just 22 years old, he became the youngest principal in the country, a distinction that reflected not only his brilliance but also his courage, humility, and deep commitment to children and families.
His career later led him to the Texas Education Agency, where he spent more than 25 years strengthening adult education, compliance, and statewide systems that supported learners of all ages. Mr. Black’s work at TEA was marked by integrity, fairness, and a steady belief that education is the gateway to opportunity.
In Austin, Mr. Black found what would become one of his greatest callings: serving nearly 20 years as Executive Director of Child Inc., the region’s Head Start agency. Under his leadership, Child Inc. expanded its reach, strengthened its workforce, and deepened its impact on thousands of children and families. Mr. Black led with a rare blend of executive discipline and genuine heart, always reminding his teams that their work was sacred and that every child deserved dignity, stability, and a strong start.
Faith was the anchor of Mr. Black’s life. As a devoted member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, he served as Chairman of Trustees, Deacon, President of the Men’s Ministry/Brotherhood, choir member, and leader of numerous committees. His mentorship of young men through the Brotherhood Ministry became one of his most cherished legacies. Mr. Black believed deeply in lifting others, and he lived that belief every day.
Albert married the love of his life, Kathy Gaither, in 1981. Together, they built a family grounded in love, resilience, and faith. He was a devoted husband, a proud father to Elijah Black and the late Kaneisha Black Hill, and a joyful grandfather to Karis Hill and Gerald “Trey” Hill III.
Albert L. Black passed away on August 11, 2024, surrounded by family. He leaves behind a legacy of leadership, service, and unwavering belief in the power of education to transform lives.
Our Partners
