Community Assessment

When Is a Community Assessment Required?

a close-up picture of a toddler looking up

As cited in the HSPPS, in order to design a program that meets community needs and builds on strengths and resources, a program must conduct a community assessment at least once over the five-year grant period. In addition, a program must annually review and update the community assessment to reflect any significant changes (45 CFR §1302.11(b)(2)).


Program Planning Cycle diagram

Figure 1.1 provides a graphic representation of the community assessment process with a suggested sequence of events. This diagram shows how the community assessment relates to the program planning process and the grant application. Visit the Program Planning in Head Start: The Program Planning Cycle page to learn more.