Tag: CCU-2022

COMMUNITY RULE REVISION WORKGROUP:
APPLICATION DEADLINE IS DECEMBER 23 

The Office of Child Care (OCC) within ELD is revising the Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) for Certified Child Care Centers. As part of this revision, OCC is hosting a Community Rule Revision Workgroup. You are invited to apply to participate in this workgroup and provide input and suggestions for these rules. Participants will be reimbursed for time dedicated to this workgroup.  

Please share this opportunity with your early learning community. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. December 23, 2022. More information, including workgroup focus and meeting schedule.

CERTIFIED SCHOOL-AGE CHILD CARE CENTERS:
WATCH PART 1 OF THE WEBINAR VIDEO SERIES  

This webinar video series was created as an introduction to the rules for Certified School-Age Child Care Centers. The videos provide an overview of the rules, explain key features and how rules are organized, and highlight changes in rules or new rules.  

Part 1 of the school-age rules webinar video series is now available. Watch videos 1 through 6 by clicking the button below. The videos cover a variety of topics from center capacity to emergency preparedness to positions and qualifications. Part 2, videos 7 to 13, will be available in January 2023. After watching, please share your feedback on the series by completing this form.  

SAVE THE DATE:
JANUARY PROVIDER INFORMATION SESSIONS  

Mark your calendar for the next events in our series of provider information sessions:  

Wednesday, January 11 | 6 – 7 p.m. 

All provider types. (Interpretation available)

ZOOM REGISTRATION WILL BE AVAILABLE SOON.

Thursday, January 12 | 6 – 7 p.m. 

All provider types. (Conducted in Spanish) 

ZOOM REGISTRATION WILL BE AVAILABLE SOON.

REMINDERS

• Complete the Foundations for Learning training before end of year This free, federally required training on child development is available on the “Learning with OCCD” website in English, Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, and traditional Chinese. The deadline to complete this course is December 31, 2022. For more information, visit Portland State University’s Oregon Center for Career Development website.
• Share the Preschool Development Grant (PDG) Family Survey We invite all Oregon parents and caregivers of children ages birth to 5 years to participate in this 15-minute survey, available in Chinese, English, Russian, Somali, Spanish, and Vietnamese. The deadline is January 31, 2023. Participants will receive a $20 gift card to thank them for completing the survey (One gift card per household). If you have questions or would like to request fliers or survey links, please email denisef@oslc.org or call (916) 205-6851.
• Finance trainings available to early care and education (ECE) providers First Children’s Finance (FCF) partnered with ELD to offer training opportunities in December and January for ECE providers to support financial management and grant reporting. The third session (Spanish language) is on January 11 from 6 to 8 p.m. More information and to register.   

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU:
TAKE THE CHILD CARE MARKET PRICE SURVEY 

Oregon conducts a Market Price Survey (MPS) every two years to collect and capture the prices and supply of child care across the state. Contact your local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) for more information and to take the survey. The survey deadline is December 31, 2022. This survey was developed in partnership with CCR&Rs, The Research Institute at Western Oregon University, Oregon State University, and the Early Learning Division.    

As part of the MPS, you will be contacted by your CCR&R to verify the rates you charge for your child care services and other information, including your current child care capacity. This information will be used for regional and state policy-making to ensure families have equal access to child care. MPS data also influences the Oregon Department of Human Services’ maximum subsidy rates for the Employment Related Day Care program and is the basis for tracking child care deserts over time. Please note: rate information is not shared with parents and families and is combined with other facilities’ data for state decision-making purposes.  

For more information, please contact your local CCR&R or read the 2020 report.

BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR RESPIRATORY
SYNCYTIAL VIRUS (RSV) SYMPTOMS  

Oregon is experiencing increasing RSV infections across the state. 

RSV is a common virus that causes cold-like symptoms. RSV can cause severe illness for some infants, young children, and older adults. Those at greatest risk include:  

• Premature infants 
• Infants, especially those 6 months and younger 
• Children younger than 2 years old with chronic lung disease or congenital (present from birth) heart disease 
• Children with weakened immune systems 
• Children who have neuromuscular disorders, including those who have difficulty swallowing or clearing mucus secretions 

With flu and COVID-19 cases also expected to rise this winter, we encourage everyone to take steps to prevent and reduce the spread of respiratory viruses, including RSV. 

If parents or families have questions about their child’s care, they should call their health care provider (or 211 if they need help finding one). To learn more about RSV in Oregon, visit the Oregon Health Authority blog. 

APPLICATIONS OPEN: COMMUNITY RULES REVISION WORKGROUP  

The Office of Child Care (OCC) is revising the Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) for Certified Child Care Centers. As part of this revision, OCC is hosting a Community Rule Revision Workgroup. Applications are now open to participate in this workgroup and provide input and suggestions for these rules. Participants will be reimbursed for time dedicated to this workgroup. 

Please consider applying and share this opportunity with your early learning community. The deadline to apply is December 23, 2022 at 5 p.m. For more information, including workgroup focus and meeting schedule, visit https://oregonearlylearning.com/childcare-rules/CRRWorkgroup  

OHA TO PROVIDERS: YOU DO NOT NEED TO REQUIRE A NEGATIVE RSV TEST FOR CHILDREN IN CARE 

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and health care providers are reporting an increase in families requesting RSV testing for their children, and that some child care providers may be requiring a negative RSV test to return to care. This presents a challenge for our health care system. RSV testing is not typically available outside of hospitals, and these requests place additional strain on hospitals and clinics already struggling to meet the demand for symptomatic patients in need of care.  

 While child care providers are required to follow exclusion requirements for symptoms of communicable illness, OHA does not recommended that families seek RSV testing for children unless testing is recommended by a health care professional. Child care providers do not need to require a negative RSV test in order for children to return to care.  

RSV is a common respiratory virus, and usually only causes mild cold symptoms. However, it is important to seek medical care when it is needed. Symptoms of more serious illness include difficulty breathing, dehydration, discoloration in tongue, lips, or skin, and decreased activity or alertness. You can find more information on how to protect yourself, children and families on the OHA website.  

Remember, OHA does recommend getting a COVID-19 test if there are symptoms like new cough, fever, shortness of breath, or new loss of taste or smell. Check out our COVID-19 Exclusion Guidelines, and find more information on how to get a COVID-19 test or vaccine. Plus, you can find information about flu prevention including how to get a flu vaccine. 

IT’S NATIONAL SAFE TOYS AND GIFTS MONTH 

Why is safe toys and gifts month important?  

It alerts us to choking hazards. Choking is a major risk for children when playing with toys — specifically when children are under three years old. Completely inspect the level of choking risk for each toy. 

It encourages child supervision. Toy manufacturers have come a long way in making their products safe for children to enjoy. However, the best way to manage and reduce risk is to have an adult watching. 

We are more aware. Being aware and looking for the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) label on toys means that the toy has met the national safety standards. 

Visit https://nationaltoday.com/safe-toys-and-gifts-month/ to learn more about toy safety and view lists of age-appropriate toys based on age.

SCHOOL-AGE CENTER RULES INFORMATION SESSION
RECORDINGS AVAILABLE ONLINE 

Thank you to all who attended the virtual information sessions on November 29 and November 30. Please share your session experience by completing this feedback form. 

During these sessions, attendees were able to 

• Hear from Regional Manager Kristina Christian and Senior Licensing Specialist Cheryle Myers 
• Learn about the rules for licensed programs that only care for school-age children 
• Explore any questions about these rules 

If you weren’t able to attend, watch the session recordings: 

SHARE THE PRESCHOOL DEVELOPMENT GRANT (PDG) FAMILY SURVEY 

The latest statewide Family Household Survey was launched on December 1, 2022. We invite all Oregon parents and caregivers of children ages birth to 5 years to participate in this 15-minute survey. The deadline to complete the survey is January 31, 2023.  

This survey explores families’ experiences with and needs for early learning and care services. The Family Survey is part of the Early Learning Division’s Strengths and Needs Assessment research funded by the Preschool Development Grant. This survey was developed in partnership with our research partners at Portland State University’s Center for Improvement of Child and Family Services (PSU CCF) and OSLC Developments Inc. (ODI).  

• Surveys are available in six languages: Chinese, English, Russian, Somali, Spanish, and Vietnamese. 
• Parents/caregivers who participate will receive a $20 gift card to thank them for completing the survey (One gift card per household). 
• If you have questions or would like to request fliers or survey links, please contact Denise Ford with ODI at denisef@oslc.org or (916) 205-6851. 

CERTIFIED SCHOOL-AGE CHILD CARE CENTERS: REMINDER TO REGISTER 

Register to attend a virtual information session next week.
There are two options: 9 to 10:30 a.m. November 29 or 6 to 7:30 p.m. November 30.  

During this session, you will: 

• Hear from Regional Manager Kristina Christian and Senior Licensing Specialist Cheryle Myers 
• Learn about the rules for licensed programs that only care for school-age children 
• Explore any questions from programs about these rules 

To register or learn more, visit the Rules Resource section of our website. To submit questions in advance, please email Cheryle.K.Myers@ode.oregon.gov.   

NOVEMBER PROVIDER INFORMATION SESSIONS: SLIDES AND RECORDINGS NOW AVAILABLE 

Thank you to everyone who attended our November Provider Information Sessions! The slides and recordings for the English and Spanish sessions held November 16 and 17 are available for viewing on our website or YouTube Playlist. In these sessions, ELD shares the latest updates on the agency, ERDC expanded eligibility, and COVID-19.

COMPLETE THE FOUNDATIONS FOR LEARNING TRAINING
BEFORE END OF YEAR 

The required training called “Foundations for Learning” is available to early care and education (ECE) providers. This free, two-hour training on child development is available on the “Learning with OCCD” website in English, Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, and Traditional Chinese. The deadline to complete this course is December 31, 2022. Listed below are frequently asked questions on this training. For more information, visit Portland State University’s Oregon Center for Career Development website. 

Q: How Was Notice Of This Training Shared With Providers? How Can I Share With Staff In My Program?

A: Here is a link you can forward to staff: https://occd.educadium.com/ The Early Learning Division Office of Child Care sent letters and emails to all programs on July 29, 2022, and we’ve shared several reminders since then. Licensing specialists will connect with programs as the deadline approaches.   

Q: I’m Experiencing Technical Difficulties With The Training? What Should I Do?

A: If you are experiencing technical difficulties, please contact the Help Desk: occdtrainer@pdx.edu or 1-877-725-8535.  

Q: Are Recorded Programs Required To Complete This Training?

A: No, recorded programs are not required to complete the course. However, we invite recorded programs to explore this free training if you would like to learn more about child development.  

Q: Will The Certificate For This Training Automatically Get Sent To ORO Or Do We Need To Send?

A: The certificate will automatically be sent to ORO. During this busy time, it could take up to three days before you see it in your MyORO account.

REGISTER TO ATTEND ELD’S
NOVEMBER PROVIDER INFORMATION SESSIONS 

JOIN US IN NOVEMBER TO:

• Learn about ERDC Expanded Eligibility  
• Check in with OHA on COVID-19  
• Get the latest info on the Agency and Programs 

Wednesday, November 16 | 6 – 7 p.m. 
All provider types. (Interpretation available) 

Thursday, November 17 | 6 – 7 p.m. 
All provider types. (Conducted in Spanish) 

This is a virtual event. Registration is required to attend via Zoom. You may submit questions in advance on the registration form. You may also participate on ELD’s Facebook page live stream. 

Note: Attendees using interpretation services (Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Chinese, and ASL) should join the session via Zoom.   

OCTOBER IS SUDDEN INFANT DEATH SYNDROME
(SIDS) AWARENESS MONTH  

Spread the word and help reduce the risk of SIDS in Oregon. Safe to Sleep® created a toolkit to raise national awareness about SIDS and encourage safe infant sleep in our communities.  

Here is a two-page overview in various languages of what a safe sleep environment looks like:
English  Spanish  Russian  Vietnamese  Chinese 

Finally, the Safe Sleep for Oregon’s Infants training can be found on the ELD’s Self-Study Training page.

NOVEMBER IS NATIONAL NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH 

This month, and throughout the year, we celebrate rich and diverse continuing cultures, traditions, histories, and contributions of Native people, especially Oregon’s caregivers. Explore how you might honor and recognize Native and Indigenous people this month – and all year long.  

• Learn more about the nine federally recognized Tribes in Oregon 
• View and learn about traditional Native American artists featured in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. 
• View a list of children’s books that share Native American culture and resources from Learning for Justice, and Zero to Three. 

FOUNDATIONS FOR LEARNING TRAINING  

The new required training called “Foundations for Learning” is available to early care and education (ECE) providers. This is a free, two-hour training on child development that is available on the “Learning with OCCD” website in English, Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, and Traditional Chinese. The deadline to complete this course is December 31, 2022. Listed below are frequently asked questions on this training. 

Q: How was notice of this training shared with providers? How can I share with staff in my program?

Here is a link you can forward to staff: https://occd.educadium.com/ The Early Learning Division Office of Child Care sent letters and emails to all programs on July 29, 2022. Also, licensing specialists will follow up with programs as the deadline approaches.  

Q: I’m experiencing technical difficulties with the training? What should I do? 

If you are experiencing technical difficulties, please contact the Help Desk: occdtrainer@pdx.edu or 1-877-725-8535. They can help troubleshoot problems or suggest a different browser. 

Q: Are recorded programs required to complete this training? 

No, recorded programs are not required to complete the course. However, we invite recorded programs to explore this free training if you would like to learn more about child development. 

Q: Will the certificate for this training automatically get sent to ORO or do we need to do send?

The certificate will automatically be sent to ORO. During this busy time, it could take up to 3 days before you see it in your MyORO account. https://my.oregonregistryonline.org/  

For more information, visit https://occd.educadium.com/  

NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH WEEK: OCTOBER 10 TO 14 

National School Lunch Week is this week. Oregon Department of Education and Oregon School Boards Association are encouraging awareness of the importance of child nutrition programs.  

Visit https://www.oregon.gov/…/Oregon-School-Lunch-Week.aspx for more information and resources. 

OCTOBER IS HEAD START AWARENESS MONTH 

Launched in 1965, Head Start programs promote children’s development through services that support early learning, health, and family well-being. Let’s celebrate Oregon Pre-Kindergarten (OPK) and Early Head Start programs!  

National Head Start Association has resources for celebrating the month, including social media images and themes for each week: https://nhsa.org/head-start-awareness-month/ Consider also following Oregon Head Start Association for updates and resources.   

Special thanks to the OPK and Early Head Start staff. We appreciate the difference you make for Oregon’s children and families!   

SAVE THE DATE: ELD PROVIDER INFORMATION SESSIONS 

Mark your calendar for the next events in our series of provider information sessions: 

Wednesday, November 16 | 6 to 7 p.m.  
All provider types. (Interpretation available) 

Thursday, November 17 | 6 to 7 p.m.  
All provider types. (Conducted in Spanish)  

More details and a link to register coming soon.  

Watch previous information sessions on the ELD’s Provider Information Sessions page.

OREGON’S LARGEST MANDARIN PRESCHOOL: CHINESE IMMIGRANTS PRESERVE CULTURE THROUGH EARLY EDUCATION 

By Rose Wong | The Oregonian/OregonLive 

“First founded as a free-standing preschool, Goodtime Chinese School has expanded to include pre-kindergarten through fifth grade and after-school services. Located in two large beige buildings across a street from each other, the school has 25 teachers and 200 students, 60 of them in preschool. Instruction time is split in equal parts English and Mandarin, the most prevalent Chinese language in the world, spoken by over a billion people.” >>> Read the full story 

CENTRAL BACKGROUND REGISTRY GUIDELINES 

We know that the delay in Central Background Registry (CBR) enrollment is affecting your ability to hire staff and is difficult for families. We apologize for that. We want to provide information about the work we are doing to get through the backlog as well as highlight some common issues that can slow down the process.

ELD is authorizing all overtime and working through background checks as quickly as possible. We currently process about 140 applications per day. However, we’ve received more than 2,000 applications since the start of September, far exceeding pre-pandemic enrollment applications.  

Our intake team includes three people. We are also training OCC managers and staff—35 additional people—to process applications to assign them to the background team. Unfortunately, bringing on temporary new staff is not an option, nor is reverting to the emergency check process that was available during the pandemic. 

We’ve investigated the reasons behind many of the delays we have been contacted about and determined that many can be minimized by following the suggestions below. Still, we apologize for these delays and are committed to working on improvements for the future. 

Tips for understanding the CBR process when there are delays: 

• CBR enrollments won’t expire if you submit your application up to 14 days before expiration date. 
• Applications must be filled out completely and signed. 
• Email and mailing address must be current and accurate. 
• When you get your instructions for fingerprinting, make your appointment as quickly as possible. 
• Use the FieldPrint code supplied by OCC. 
• If you get requests for information from OCC, respond as quickly as possible. 
• Follow all specific instructions. 

Please note: Due to considerations of confidentiality, OCC is unable to give detailed information regarding an applicant’s CBR processing to employers and program directors. 

If experiencing a delay in CBR processing, applicants should contact Office of Child Care Customer Service at 1-800-556-6616 or email occ.customerservice@ode.oregon.gov. 

UPDATED COVID-19 GUIDANCE NOW AVAILABLE 

As Oregon continues to focus on COVID-19 prevention, ELD and the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), has updated Oregon’s Child Care Provider COVID-19 Requirements and Recommendations, effective Nov. 9, 2022. This guidance document can be found on the COVID-19 Resources webpage.  

Some key updates to COVID-19 guidance include:

• Removal of requirement to quarantine if exposed and not symptomatic. Providers are still required to exclude any child or staff who has COVID-19, regardless of vaccination status.  
• Removal of requirement to notify Local Public Health Authority (LPHA) for every COVID-19 case. Instead, providers will be required to report elevated levels of absenteeism due to respiratory illness.
• Added recommendation: When returning to care after isolation, individuals 2 years and older
  should wear a mask for an additional five days. Individuals who cannot or do not wear a mask should continue to be excluded for an additional five days, for a total of 10 days.
• Updated vaccine and booster recommendations 

For questions about COVID-19, please contact your LPHA or email OHA at
COVID.19@dhsoha.state.or.us. Additionally, you can contact the Office of Child Care at 1-800-556-6616 or email ProviderContact@state.or.us.

REMINDER: REGISTER TO ATTEND ELD’S
NOVEMBER PROVIDER INFORMATION SESSIONS 

Join us in November to learn about the below topics:  

• ERDC Expanded Eligibility  
• Check in with OHA on COVID-19  
• Get the latest info on the Agency and Programs 

Wednesday, November 16 | 6 to 7 p.m.  
All provider types. (Interpretation available)
ZOOM: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_CiOJJOmdQEiopeQKTRt-tg

Thursday, November 17 | 6 to 7 p.m.  
All provider types. (Conducted in Spanish) 
ZOOM: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_z8LtF2DmTL6yro6xfEbbLw

This is a virtual event. Registration is required to attend via Zoom. You may submit questions in advance on the registration form. You may also participate on ELD’s Facebook page live stream. 

Note: Attendees using interpretation services (Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Chinese, and ASL) should join the session via Zoom.   

HONORING CURRENT AND FORMER MEMBERS
OF THE MILITARY ON VETERANS DAY  

This Friday, on Veterans Day, we would like to acknowledge and thank current and former members of the United States armed services. Many early care and education professionals have served in the military or have a spouse or family member who is a U.S. veteran. To all of you, thank you for your service to our nation.  

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs will honor all veterans of the U.S. armed forces during its Veterans Day Ceremony Nov. 10 this year in view of the Capitol. The event will feature remarks by federal, state, and local dignitaries and ceremonial elements including color guard, national anthem, wreath presentation and the playing of “Taps.” The ceremony starts at 11 a.m. on November 10 (day before Veterans Day). 

CERTIFIED SCHOOL-AGE CENTERS:
YOU’RE INVITED TO A VIRTUAL EVENT   

Attend a virtual information session to learn about the new rules for certified school-age centers, effective January 1, 2023. During this session, you will: 

• Hear from Regional Manager Kristina Christian and Senior Licensing Specialist Cheryle Myers 
• Learn about the rules for licensed programs that only care for school-age children 
• Explore any questions from programs about these rules 

Click below to register. There are two options:

November 29 from 9 to 10:30 a.m.

November 30 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

This is a virtual event. Registration is required to attend via Zoom. To register or learn more, visit https://oregonearlylearning.com/rules-resources/. To submit questions in advance, please email Cheryle.K.Myers@ode.oregon.gov.   

DELC MISSION, VISION, AND VALUES: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AND REPORT NOW AVAILABLE  

The Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) Mission, Vision, and Values Engagement report and executive summary were published last week on the ELD website. We are so grateful for the time, energy, and input Feedback Survey and Community Conversation participants shared with us in summer 2022. 

Click below to read about key findings, recommendations, and next steps. The report is available in English and the summary is available in English, Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, and Chinese. We will continue to share any updates on the DELC Mission, Vision, and Values as the language is finalized. 

Department of Early Learning and Care

PRESCHOOL PROMISE REQUEST FOR APPLICATIONS (RFA) UPDATE

The Early Learning Division (ELD) received 209 Preschool Promise (PSP) applications, and 134 were selected for an award based on eligibility, quality score, and community need. For more information on evaluation criteria, see Section 4 of the RFA. All applicants have received a notification of their application status. ELD continues to work with the procurement team to distribute grant agreements to programs as quickly as possible. 

This expansion of the PSP program will provide free, high-quality early learning opportunities to more than 2,000 additional preschool-aged children at 178 sites located in all 16 Early Learning Hub regions. Awarded applicants include a Federally Recognized Oregon Tribe, Oregon Pre-Kindergarten (OPK) programs, registered and certified family child care homes, certified centers, school districts, and community-based nonprofit organizations.  

We will continue to provide additional information and data. For more information on the Preschool Promise program, visit https://oregonearlylearning.com/preschool-promise. 

FAMILY VOICES REPORT HIGHLIGHTS MARGINALIZED COMMUNITIES

In a partnership between Portland State University, the Early Learning Division, OSLC Developments Inc., and AB Cultural Drivers, the Family Voices report looks at the experiences of families in three important communities and the issues they are facing related to early learning and care.  Participating families were those who: 

• Have a child who was suspended or expelled from an early learning program 

• Have infants and toddlers and who (a) identify as African American/Black; (b) are Spanish speaking and live in rural and suburban Oregon; (c) identify as Native American; or (d) are English speaking and live in rural Oregon 
• Have a child aged 0 to 5 years, and who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community  

The report details clear, actionable recommendations from the families themselves about how the early learning system can be improved to make their lives better. The data collected will help shape program investments and policy changes in Oregon’s early learning system. 

Find the executive summary on the ELD website in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Russian, and Chinese. 

HB 3073 PROGRESS REPORT AVAILABLE SOON ON ELD WEBSITE

In September, the Early Learning Division submitted its most recent report to the Oregon Legislature about progress toward the implementation of Department of Early Learning and Care. The report details the status of current major projects, from hiring additional staff to information technology changes. Importantly, the document contains additional information about the transition of the Employment Related Day Care program from ODHS to DELC. 

The report will be available on the ELD website no later than the end of the day Sept. 30. 

Here is where it will be posted: https://oregonearlylearning.com/HB3073#1644950051229-eae0ce24-e0b2  

OREGON EARLY CHILDHOOD INCLUSION NEWSLETTER: SIGN UP TODAY!

The Oregon Early Childhood Inclusion (OECI) team launched a newsletter to share information from the state, updates from community partners, and resources to advance early childhood inclusion. Sign up today and share with your early learning community.  

Learn more about Oregon Early Childhood Inclusion.  

WORLD TEACHER DAY IS WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5

Thank you to our early educators for nurturing, encouraging, and inspiring our youngest Oregonians!

The theme for World Teachers’ Day 2022 is “The transformation of education begins with teachers.” Reading Rockets has a list of books on how AMAZING our teachers are and the impact they have on our communities. 

ELD CELEBRATES HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH 

September 15 to October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month, a special time when we recognize and honor the cultures, stories, history, and contributions of Hispanic communities. Here are some resources to help you celebrate, explore and increase your understanding this month and throughout the year.  

• Tips and Resources for Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month | Edutopia 
• Hispanic Heritage Month Resources for Educators | Anti-Defamation League 
• Resources for Teachers | National Hispanic Heritage Month 
• Hispanic Heritage Month Resources | National Museum of the American Latino 
• 11 Picture Books to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month | PBS Kids 
• Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month | Zero to Three 
• How to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month With Kids |Parents Magazine 

Next week, ELD’s Early Learning System Director Alyssa Chatterjee will visit a full immersion Spanish Preschool Promise program in Oregon. Follow ELD on Facebook for updates on her visit.  

NATIONAL CENTER FOR PYRAMID MODEL INNOVATIONS (NCPMI): SEPTEMBER WEBINARS  

Check out this month’s webinars as part of NCPMI’s Pyramid Model Webinar Series. These are recorded for viewing on your own schedule! 

Inclusion Benefits Everyone (Children, Families, Providers, and Directors)
A 3-part Within the Framework Series
September 16, September 23, and September 30 | 11 a.m. (PT) 

One Size Doesn’t Fit All: Using the Tiered Coaching Model for Practitioners
September 21 | Noon (PT) 

Visit https://challengingbehavior.org/training/webinars/upcoming-webinars/ for the complete webinar schedule and to register.  

CHILD CARE MARKET PRICE SURVEY COMING SOON 

Oregon conducts a Market Price Survey (MPS) every two years to collect and capture the prices and supply of child care across the state. The 2022 survey will be conducted between October 1 and December 31 by your local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) in partnership with The Research Institute at Western Oregon University, Oregon State University, and the Early Learning Division.   

As part of the MPS, you will be contacted to verify the rates you charge for your child care services and other information including your current child care capacity. Information is used for regional and state policy–making to ensure families have equal access to child care. In addition, the data collected during the MPS influences the Oregon Department of Human Services’ maximum subsidy rates for the Employment Related Day Care program and is the basis for tracking child care deserts over time. Rate information is not shared with parents and families and is combined with other facilities’ data for state decision-making purposes. 

Watch for more information from your CCR&R in early October! 

For more information, read the 2020 report: https://health.oregonstate.edu/sites/health.oregonstate.edu/files/early-learners/pdf/research/2020_oregon_child_care_market_price_study_-_main_report.pdf 

DEPARTMENT OF EARLY LEARNING AND CARE AGENCY BUDGET REQUEST 

Every two years, state agencies are required to submit an Agency Request Budget (ARB) outlining their recommended investments for the Governor’s and Legislature’s consideration. The 2023-25 ARB is the first budget developed for the Department of Early Learning and Care (the agency the Early Learning Division will become July 1, 2023). On September 9, the 2023-25 ARB executive summary and full report were published on the ELD website.  

The DELC ARB focuses on three priorities: 1) centering families; 2) supporting the early learning workforce; and 3) sustainable operations. 

Visit https://oregonearlylearning.com/delc_abr for more information.  

FOUNDATIONS FOR LEARNING – NEW REQUIRED TRAINING 

On September 30, 2022, a new required training called “Foundations For Learning” will be available to early care and education (ECE) providers. This is a free, two-hour training on child development that will be available on the “Learning with OCCD” website in English, Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, and Traditional Chinese. This training will also be available in a self-study (paper version) on the OCCD website. 

All individuals currently employed in child care settings as of September 30, 2022 will need to complete the “Foundations for Learning” training before December 31, 2022. When individuals complete this training, they will: 

• Fulfill this new training requirement 
• Gain two hours toward the required hours in child development 

For more information and to find the training after Sept. 30, visit OCCD’s training page.  

APPLICATIONS OPEN:
CENTRAL BACKGROUND REGISTRY (CBR)
RULEMAKING ADVISORY COMMITTEE (RAC) 

In June 2022, the Early Learning Council (ELC) adopted temporary rules in response to HB 4005 and SB 1547. These bills and the statutes expanded background check requirements for those working and/or living in recorded preschool, recorded school-age, and Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) programs. All staff, volunteers, household members, and those who may have unsupervised contact with children must be enrolled in the CBR.   

The CBR RAC is a group of community members who will provide feedback on the proposed rule language and share input on the fiscal and equity effects of CBR enrollment requirements for adults working in these programs.   

If interested in participating, please complete the application and submit it by October 7, 2022. RAC meetings will be in late October and early November.    

REMINDERS 

Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program: Provide Feedback on the Proposed Rules
We want to hear from you!  

• Complete the feedback form on the draft rules by September 23, 2022 at 5 p.m.   
• Register to present verbal testimony at the public hearing on September 20 at 5:30 p.m.   

To provide feedback and learn more about these rules and the rulemaking process, visit https://oregonearlylearning.com/sepp.   

September Provider Information Sessions
The recording for the session (English language) on Wednesday, September 14 is now available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKLyUSOvRBU&t=1s. The next session (Spanish language) will be 6 to 7 p.m. tonight, September 15: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_KaEItRdKRmK2UbLFvSqcfQ   

In these sessions, ELD shares information about the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC), updates on programs and opportunities, and the vision for the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) website.  

REGISTER TO ATTEND ELD’S SEPTEMBER
PROVIDER INFORMATION SESSIONS  

Join us in September to:  

• Learn about Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC)
• Share your vision for the DELC website
• Agency Reminders

Wednesday, September 14 | 6 to 7 p.m.
All provider types. (Interpretation available)
ZOOM: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_CKuvc9iGSq2Aj_D98qrjaQ

Thursday, September 15 | 6 to 7 p.m.
All provider types. (Conducted in Spanish)
ZOOM: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_KaEItRdKRmK2UbLFvSqcfQ

This is a virtual event. Registration is required to attend via Zoom. You may submit questions in advance on the registration form. You may also participate on ELD’s Facebook page live stream at the same time. ELD staff will monitor the Facebook comment section for questions.  

Note: Attendees using interpretation services (Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Chinese, and ASL) should join the session via Zoom.  

PRESCHOOL PROMISE RFA:
NOTICE OF INTENT TO AWARD

Thank you to all who applied for the Preschool Promise grant! We are deeply grateful for your passion and interest in serving children and families in Oregon. The Preschool Promise Notice of Intent to Award list was published on Tuesday, August 30 on the ELD website: https://oregonearlylearning.com/preschool-promise.  

Applicants who are included on this list will receive an email confirming ELD’s intent to award their program a Preschool Promise grant. If your program is not listed in the Notice of Intent to Award, we encourage you to continue working with your local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) Agency, or other community partner, to reflect on the application process and how to benefit from RFA opportunities in the future.   

If you have any questions, email DELC.Procurement@ode.oregon.gov. 

SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION PREVENTION PROGRAM:
PROVIDE FEEDBACK ON THE PROPOSED RULES

On September 1, the Early Learning Division released a draft of the Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program Rules for public comment. These proposed rules will help the agency set up the new program and guide future design and requirements.  

We want to hear from you! Provide feedback on the draft rules:  

• Complete the Feedback Form on the draft rules by September 23, 2022 at 5 p.m.  
• Register to present verbal testimony at the public hearing on September 20 at 5:30 p.m.  

To provide feedback and learn more about these rules and the rulemaking process, visit https://oregonearlylearning.com/sepp.  

Questions? Contact Remy Watts, ELD Rules Coordinator: remy.watts@ode.oregon.gov | 971-701-1535. 

CHILD CARE SUBSTITUTES PROVIDER ADVISORY COMMITTEE – APPLICATIONS OPEN

Providers are invited to share their voices and help build a substitutes program for child care in Oregon. Providers of all types can apply now to be considered for the Child Care Substitutes Provider Advisory Committee. Committee members will be asked to share feedback on challenges and priorities for providers in creating a successful substitutes program. 

Virtual committee meetings will be each quarter starting September 2022 through June 2023. Providers selected to participate can earn subsidized substitute hours (four hours per meeting). The Early Learning Division (ELD) is funding the program in partnership with Western Oregon University, the developer of the Child Care Substitutes Program.  

The deadline to apply is August 31, 2022. 

Apply Now!

INCLUSIVE PARTNERS UPDATE 

On July 1, 2022, the Inclusive Partners program transitioned from the Oregon Department of Human Services to the Early Learning Division. This was the first of several transitions for early learning and care programs that will be consolidated under the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) starting July 2023. 

If you are not familiar with Inclusive Partners, it is a five-member team that provides inclusive resources, technical assistance, and subsidies for child care providers and families of children with higher needs in Oregon. The program works with child care providers caring for children who need additional accommodations to support inclusive care. The program offers supports for children and youths from birth through age 17. Families, child care providers, and other partners can request assistance at no cost. 

Learn more about Inclusive Partners and its support options by visiting InclusivePartners.org. 

CHILD CARE UPDATE NEWSLETTER – READER SURVEY RESULTS 

Earlier this summer, we invited readers of Child Care Updates to take a survey to help improve the newsletter’s usefulness.  

Overall, most respondents thought the every-other-week frequency was just right. Most said they are receiving enough information on child care rules (87%), COVID-19 safety information (64%), and general agency news (65%). Other topics captured in the survey asked if respondents are receiving enough information on opportunities to engage with ELD (58%) and if they are receiving enough information on the implementation of the new Department of Early Learning and Care (60%).  

Based on the survey results, ELD will look to offer more information about training opportunities and mental health supports. We will also continue to share timely updates about the new Department of Early Learning and Care, along with safety, health, and rules affecting child care.    

Thank you to all who shared feedback and please sign up to subscribe if you don’t already receive the email updates!   

SOME THOUGHTS SHARED BY SURVEY PARTICIPANTS:

“I really appreciate getting the updates delivered to my mailbox. It’s been a great support while navigating my preschool through COVID! Thank you!”

“I’d like to see more mental health topics for providers and more grant info.”

“I like that we can read in our native language. Thanks!” (Spanish speaking respondent) 

PRESCHOOL PROMISE REQUEST FOR APPLICATIONS (RFA) UPDATE  

The Preschool Promise Request for Applications (RFA) closed on Thursday, Aug. 4. We are grateful to all applicants for their interest in Preschool Promise and for their service to children and families in Oregon. We received a total of 212 applications requesting 3,137 slots at 267 sites.   

The review process is in progress and “intent to award” notices will be distributed by the end of August. Evaluation committees will use the evaluation criteria outlined in the RFA to score each application. If you have questions about your application, please email PSPRFA@ode.oregon.gov.

For more information and Frequently Asked Questions, visit https://oregonearlylearning.com/preschool-promise.    

SAVE THE DATE: ELD PROVIDER INFORMATION SESSIONS

Mark your calendar for the next events in our series of provider information sessions: 

Wednesday, September 14 | 6 to 7 p.m.
All provider types. (Interpretation available) 

Thursday, September 15 | 6 to 7 p.m.
All provider types. (Conducted in Spanish) 

More details and a link to register coming soon. 

TWO RECALL NOTICES: FIRST CHOICE GLASS BABY BOTTLES AND 4MOMS MAMAROO AND ROCKAROO INFANT SWINGS AND ROCKERS

The U.S. Product Consumer Safety Commission issued two recalls in recent weeks. One notice is for First Choice Glass Baby Bottles, which contain levels of lead that exceed the federal lead content ban. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health issues. 

The bottles were sold exclusively on Amazon. The product was manufactured for the UK market only and not intended for sale in the U.S.  

The other product recalled is the 4moms MamaRoo Baby Swing, versions 1.0 through 4.0 and RockaRoo Baby Rockers. When the swing or rocker is not in use, the restraint straps can dangle below the seat and crawling infants can become entangled in the straps, posing a strangulation hazard. The recall includes models that use a 3-point harness. The 5-point harness model is not included in this recall. 

EARLY LEARNING DIVISION EMPLOYEE IDENTIFICATION REMINDER 

We’d like to remind providers that they can ask any visitors to their facilities who identify themselves as an Early Learning Division employee to show an agency badge and business card before allowing entrance. Providers may also ask for their supervisor’s name and contact information.