Every month is Black History Month, but February is the spotlight.
Let’s shine it bright!
Available Now: New online training opportunities from Inclusive Partners
Child care providers and members of the community can now access two free training(s) from Inclusive Partners! Read the descriptions below to learn more about each opportunity.
Inclusion 101
At times, the word inclusion can feel vague and open to interpretation. Individuals may feel unsure of what inclusion is, what it looks like, and how they can support inclusive practices in their setting. This Set 1 training will explore the three defining features of inclusion: access, participation, and support, and can help us all gain an understanding of what inclusion in early learning spaces really means. Participants will learn about fostering a sense of belonging for all children and will be challenged to look closely at their own values and beliefs so that we can create early learning spaces where all children feel welcomed.
The ADA and You
Do you think the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) seems overwhelming? It can be if you look at the legislation from a “have to” point of view. Come learn how we can move from the “have to’s” to the “get to’s” of inclusive policies and practices. This course is not presented by legal counsel.
Click here to register: Oregon Center for Career Development – Portland State University (educadium.com)
Join our Nature Based Child Care Workgroup
The goal of the workgroup is to gather valuable feedback on about outdoor learning environments and discuss how rules can be structured to support the health and safety of children in these programs.
The application period opens February 12, 2024 and closes on March 8, 2024. Meetings will begin in April. Three to four meetings will be held, with one meeting scheduled per week. The meetings will be held virtually. Meeting days and times will be finalized with the selected participants.
APPLICATION: https://www.oregon.gov/delc/about-us/pages/rule-making.aspx
For questions about participation, please contact Carol Petersen carol.a.petersen@delc.oregon.gov
Reminder: Feedback Survey
The Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD) is seeking your input on upcoming revisions to the Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) that impact family child care homes. This includes rules for Registered Family and Certified Family providers. CCLD is interested in knowing which rules you would like to see changed and why. Please provide us with your thoughts. CCLD values your input!
Click the link to take the survey https://delc.jotform.com/233554321706048
Reminder: Do you need help filing your taxes?
Even if you don’t owe taxes, you can get money back for your family by filing a return and claiming key refundable tax credits.
Learn more about the new Oregon Kids Credit, EITC, the Oregon EIC, and the Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit at https://www.oregon.gov/dor/programs/individuals/Pages/credits.aspx.
Reminder: CALL FOR PARTICIPATION
Child Care Resource and Referral Rulemaking Committee (RAC)
Child Care Resource and Referrals (CCR&Rs) are regional programs funded by the Department of Early Learning and Care to recruit and support early learning and care programs, both home- and center-based. CCR&Rs help expand high-quality early learning and care across Oregon by empowering programs with resources and technical assistance.
The Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) is seeking diverse voices to represent child care resource and referral agencies, early learning hubs, and early learning system community partners.
Apply today to give input on the match requirement for CCR&Rs in the state!
We are seeking diverse voices to represent groups within Oregon’s Early Learning system. Committee members may include:
- Child Care Resource & Referral representatives
- Representatives from advocacy organizations
- Representatives from culturally specific, community-based organizations
- Early Learning Hub representatives
- ECE program representatives
- Tribal Nations representatives
Participants will be reimbursed for their time dedicated to this RAC and will positively impact Oregon’s children, families, early learning programs, and communities. Applications are due February 16, 2024.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 16, 2024
QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS? Please contact Margie McNabb at 971-428-7463 | margie.mcnabb@delc.oregon.gov
Reminder: Sign up for Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) email updates
Get the latest information on the Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program by signing up for email updates.
The ERDC program helps families who are working, in school, or receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) pay for child care. Recently, the program has made improvements to work better for families. Due to increased demand and limited funding, ERDC has a waitlist for most families applying to the program. Families with specific needs can skip the waitlist.
Stay informed about ERDC program information and resources with email updates. Messages will be sent each quarter unless there is a time sensitive update. Families, providers, and community partners can also learn more about the program by visiting the website or tracking data on the new dashboard.