Frequently Asked Questions
Capitol Day 2027
What's special about this event?
Unlike a traditional conference, Capitol Day is not just listening to a sage on the stage. You'll get training in the morning, then head to the Capitol to meet with legislators in the afternoon. To ensure a successful afternoon, it's important that your designated team captain communicates with our team regarding legislative meetings.
When does registration close?
Registration closes on Friday, May 7, 2027, or sooner if sold out. The early bird rate is $129.
When does early bird pricing end?
Early bird pricing ends on April 24, 2027. The rate will increase to $159.
Do I schedule my own appointments with legislators?
This year, you may choose to schedule meetings on your own, or we can assist with scheduling on your behalf. You will be asked your preference during the registration process. If you are attending as part of a group, please designate a team captain. The team captain may book meetings directly or contact us for support (details will be included in your confirmation email).
Will HSC have safety measures in place?
Yes, Head Start California asks you to please visit our Health & Safety page.
Will there be a hybrid option?
Not this time. This event is intended to build personal connections with legislators at the Capitol. However, we will hold a free virtual advocacy training online before the event.
How will I know about changes to event status?
Once you’re registered for the event, just keep an eye on your email. We’ll send any change in status to you as soon as we can.
Head Start California's Event policies can be found here.
Where are the events taking place?
Our Advocacy training will be taking place at the Sacramento Masonic Temple located at 1123 J Street, Sacramento CA 95814. Following the training, we will walk to the State Capitol for a march followed by legislative visits at the Capitol Annex Swing Space.
We anticipate that most meetings with legislators will be in-person. At this time, the Capitol Office building is closed for renovations. Most in-person meetings with legislators will be held in the Capitol Annex (Swing Space) at 1021 O Street. Some legislative offices may prefer to schedule meetings on Zoom or at nearby coffee shops.
What’s included in my registration?
Head (Start) to the Capitol Registration includes:
- Admission to all education and training
- Morning coffee & lunch
- Access to all program materials
- Event swag
Who Should Attend?
We welcome Head Start Parents/Guardians, Head Start teachers, Policy Council Members, Family Service Outreach Workers & Advocates, as well as anyone who would like to advocate on behalf of the Head Start community. No expertise is necessary and we welcome staff from all aspects of your program!
Children are welcome if absolutely necessary; however, we have limited capacity at the venue and cannot provide meals for children.
What should we wear?
Because this event includes a significant amount of walking outdoors, we recommend wearing comfortable but professional shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. We highly recommend wearing business professional attire (not t-shirts) for legislative visits and encourage you to wear Head Start colors (red, white, and blue!)
How many people from my program should I send?
The most effective Advocacy Day meetings typically include three to five participants—the perfect size to ensure everyone has a voice while keeping the conversation focused and impactful. An ideal team includes your program’s executive or program director as the team captain, at least one parent/caregiver, and staff members with varying front-line roles who can speak to the real-world impact of Head Start. Everyone—health staff, home visitors, facilities teams, and beyond—brings an important perspective to the table.
Due to space limitations in the Capitol Annex Swing Space, large group meetings may not be possible – but there are plenty of activities for attendees not in meetings.
Whether your program sends one participant or 30, we’re excited to have you—there’s a place for everyone to be part of Capitol Day and make our collective voice heard.
