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Supporting informed decision-making and continuity of services for children, families, and communities during times of transition.

Transition Works is a CDI initiative that supports Office of Head Start (OHS) Regional Offices in leading successful service area transitions when Head Start and Early Head Start providers change, often as a result of Designation Renewal System (DRS) competitions. Through CDI's Interim Management Contract, Transition Works provides Regional Office staff with specialized tools, data, technical assistance, and facility expertise to reduce transition risks, minimize service disruptions, and promote continuity of services for children and families. Our approach is grounded in CDI's decades of experience supporting complex Head Start transitions across the country.

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Supporting Transitions When Timing Matters Most

When Head Start provider changes occur under tight timelines, Transition Works helps Office of Head Start Regional Offices prepare and manage transitions with early analysis, structured planning tools, and coordinated support reducing uncertainty when services are at risk.

Quick Facts

  • Decades of experience supporting Head Start transitions
  • National tools and facility insights for Regional Offices
  • Practical support focused on service continuity

Transition Works Services

Regional Office Transition Support

Transition Works partners directly with OHS Regional Office Specialists as they lead transitions through the Designation Renewal System (DRS) and other transition events, strengthening federal oversight and promoting continuity of services.

Onsite Facility Assessments

When directed by Regional Offices, experienced facility experts conduct onsite inspections of classrooms, playgrounds, and service structures, producing detailed reports with photos, health and safety findings, and recommended repairs.

Comprehensive Transition Planning Tools

CDI has developed a Toolkit for Successful Transitions, along with templates, presentations, and checklists that help Regional Offices and Grant Recipients plan effectively, monitor progress, and address challenges early in the transition process.

Informed Grant Competitions

Transition Works generates essential data to support service area grant competitions, including insights into facility conditions and community context, helping ensure new awards are positioned for successful program startup.

Facility Research and Analysis

Transition Works conducts detailed facility research studies, analyzing enrollment and licensing trends, public records, and federal reports to identify risks or gaps that could impede property transfers or disrupt services.

Reduced Service Disruption

By identifying and mitigating transition risks early, Transition Works helps maintain uninterrupted Head Start and Early Head Start services for children, families, and communities.