For four decades, the Region IV Head Start Association (RIVHSA) has been more than an organization — It’s been a home.  A home for shared purpose, bold ideas, transformative learning, and lifelong connections in this regional Head Start/Early Head Start network. Across eight charter states and countless communities, the network has championed early childhood education, strengthened families, and inspired leadership that endures for generations. Together,  a strong foundation rooted in collaboration, advocacy, and innovation — one that continues to evolve with the needs of children, families, and the programs that serve them.

The week of February 9, 2026 in Atlanta — where it all began — for the most memorable gathering yet: a Homecoming that not only celebrates its past but boldly charts the future.  Homecoming 2026 was  more than a conference theme or tagline.  It was the launch event for a yearlong celebration of legacy and leadership, a reunion of champions past and present, and a rallying call for the work ahead.   An honor that milestones  and shapes that journey, spotlighted the people and programs driving change today, and sets sights on the future RIVHSA is building for the next generation — just as it has for the last 40 years, and for many more to come.  It wasn’t just another conference, it was homecoming — to reconnect, reflect, and reimagine the future of early care in communities across the Southeast.  source: RIVHSA.org

Cover Photo: GHSA Executive Officer, Juanita Yancey, Region IV HSA Staff Representative Member, Sherree Dean, GHSA 2nd Vice President, Melissa Metcalf, and Region IV HSA Director Representative Member, Tajuannya McBride and GHSA President attends the RIVHSA 40th Anniversary Scholarship GALA at the Omni Hotel in Atlanta.

Below: GHSA Executive Officer poses for a photo with Atlanta Falcon’s mascot, Freddy the Falcon during the RIVHSA 40th Anniversary Tailgate event on February 9th at the Omni Hotel downtown Atlanta.

In the Photo is RIVHSA President Linnie Miller, Executive Director Myra Ingram, Georgia Head Start Collaboration Director, Allison Setterlind and various members of the Region IV Head Start Association.