The Early Learning Division (ELD) partnered with the Oregon Health Authority to develop resources on masking and exclusion for providers. Some of the items available include a “Respect my mask” sign for families in various languages, an updated exclusion chart, and masking handout.
You can find these resources, along with Frequently Asked Questions on COVID-19 Isolation and Quarantine, on the ELD’s “For Providers” webpage.
Some of the key guidance changes include the following:
Updated exclusion requirements and recommendations for child care
Mask recommendations that encourage programs to support individual choice to wear a mask
Updated recommendations for prevention strategies
Who to notify if there’s a case of COVID-19 in a facility
Many of these changes have already been in effect. A number of resource documents are also available such a “Respect my mask” sign for families, an updated exclusion chart, and masking handout.
You can find these resources, along with Frequently Asked Questions on COVID-19 Isolation and Quarantine, on the ELD’s “For Providers” webpage.
The Early Learning Division (ELD) partnered with the Oregon Health Authority to develop resources on masking and exclusion for providers. Some of the items available include a “Respect my mask” sign for families in various languages, an updated exclusion chart, and masking handout.
You can find these resources, along with Frequently Asked Questions on COVID-19 Isolation and Quarantine, on the ELD’s “For Providers” webpage.
NAEYC’S WEEK OF THE YOUNG CHILD®: APRIL 2 TO 8, 2022
Let’s celebrate Oregon’s young children and their families! The Week of the Young Child® is an annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Check out NAEYC’s resources and ideas for a fun-filled week.
Oregon Governor Kate Brown issued a statewide proclamation to recognize the 51st Week of the Young Child®, encouraging Oregonians to support children and the adults who love, care for, and educate them.
As stated in the proclamation by Brown, “The essential, yet chronically undercompensated child care sector has sacrificed and struggled to serve families since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and public policies and public investments that support children in high-quality, culturally responsive early learning and child care are vital to all Oregonians.”
SPRING 2022 AWARD INCREASE FOR COVID-19 CHILD CARE STABILIZATION GRANT ANNOUNCED
After reviewing all the COVID-19 Child Care Stabilization Grant applications submitted in 2021, it was determined there were remaining funds to distribute. The funds will be distributed to all child cares with an active Stabilization grant. Child care providers who may be eligible for these funds were notified by email in March 2022. The Early Learning Division (ELD) is not opening a new application.
ELD is currently in the process of sending out the updated awards to eligible child cares for signatures. You must sign your grant within 30 days from the date you received it or it will expire. On average, awards will increase by about 25% and the grant end date will be extended by three months. If you do not wish to accept additional funding, simply reject it using the Decline to Sign feature under the Other Actions menu in DocuSign.
NEW REPORT REVEALS COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS ARE KEY IN ADVANCING EQUITY AND INCLUSION FOR CHILDREN UNDER FIVE EXPERIENCING DISABILITIES
Prioritizing partnerships to focus on equity and inclusion for children under five is critical to helping our earliest learners experiencing disabilities. That’s the key finding revealed in the Oregon Early Childhood Inclusion Indicators Initiative Annual Report released today by Oregon Department of Education (ODE), Early Learning Division, and early learning system leaders and advocates around the state.
The report, released during National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, outlines the vision, mission, and progress towards creating equal opportunity to access high-quality early care and education for children experiencing disabilities. It also highlights the need for continued investments to ensure families, providers, general and special education staff have the support they need to provide stable and continuous care for young children in community and early care and education environments. Read all the details in ODE’s news release.
REMINDERS
Call for Participation: IECMHC Rulemaking Advisory Committee Join the Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC) Rulemaking Advisory Committee (RAC). A RAC is a group of community members who will help the Early Learning Division shape and implement rule language for the IECMHC system, including the Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program. Apply today and help build an anti-racist, equity-focused IECMHC system. Applications are due Friday, April 8, 2022. Click here for more information on how to apply.
OREGON LEGISLATURE APPROVES SIGNIFICANT CHILD CARE INVESTMENTS
The 2022 Legislative Session came to close this month and there were many wins for early learning and child care. Notable legislation includes the following:
Passed HB 4005: Early Care and Education Governance
This legislation builds on HB 3073 (2021), which established the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC). HB 4005 delays the establishment of DELC to July 1, 2023. It also transfers the license-exempt child care background check process for subsidized care from the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) to the Office of Child Care in the ELD. Among several other provisions, HB 4005 increased Employment Related Day Care reimbursement rates for child care providers and allocated $26.6 million to fund those new rates for the remainder of this biennium.
Released Funds for Program Expansion
The legislature released $38 million, which was unscheduled until the Division could show community capacity for expansion of Preschool Promise, Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten and Healthy Families Oregon.
Released Funds for Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Prevention
The legislature released $5.2 million that was unscheduled until the Division could gather community input to fully develop the program and ensure there are adequate staff to provide program supports across Oregon for providers.
Passed SB 1547: Recorded Programs Oversight
Requires the staff and volunteers of recorded programs to enroll in the Central Background Registry, in accordance with recommendations from a 2020 Secretary of State audit on child care background checks.
Passed HB 5202: Omnibus Budget
This bill included several pieces:
Approved $6.8 million for 66 positions to continue the development of the Department of Early Learning and Care.
Added investments for child care supply building and wage enhancements:
$39.3 million for child care supply building grants to community based organizations (NeighborhoodImpact, Euvalcree, United We Heal and Seeding Justice) for startup costs, program expansion, training and professional learning.
$21 million for Portland State University’s Oregon Center for Career Development in Child Care to award two annual $500 recruitment and retention payments to child care staff working in Oregon.
Relief Nurseries received a $2 million investment from the legislature for increased wages.
Health Families Oregon received a $2 million investment from the legislature for increased wages.
The deadline to submit an application to join the School-Age Rulemaking Advisory Committee has been extended to Friday, March 18, 2022. If you are connected to school-age child care programs or interested in providing this type of care, please consider applying to join this committee. This type of care is also known as out-of-school-time (OST) care and before- and afterschool care programs. Click here for more information and to apply.
CALL FOR PARTICIPATION: IECMHC RULEMAKING ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Early Learning Division is seeking diverse voices to represent groups within Oregon’s Early Learning system. Please consider applying to join the Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC) Rulemaking Advisory Committee (RAC). A RAC is a group of community members who will help the Early Learning Division shape and implement rule language for the IECMHC system, including the Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program. Members will advise on requirements for ECE programs around suspension and expulsion. Apply today and help build an anti-racist, equity-focused IECMHC system.
Participants will be reimbursed for their time dedicated to this RAC and will positively impact Oregon’s children, families, early learning programs, and communities.
OSU RECEIVES $14.4 MILLION FOR STATEWIDE CENTER TO SUPPORT EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS
Oregon State University will use a new $14.4 million grant from Oregon’s Early Learning Division to establish a statewide center focused on strengthening the early childhood education workforce in Oregon.
MARCH IS DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH
This March and throughout the year, consider your role in communities and how you can advocate for the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities and developmental disabilities (ID/DD).
What is your role as an educator and caregiver? What services and resources are you sharing with families in your community? How are you incorporating “disability” in conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion? How can Oregon’s early learning system support and empower families of children with disabilities?
The Oregon Early Childhood Inclusion Initiative and Pyramid Model Implementation grants are supporting communities to partner in new and innovative ways. For more information about the early learning system efforts to advance inclusion in early care and education, click here.
Other early learning system supports include:
Oregon’s Early Intervention (EI) /Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) program and how to refer a child for services. This program supports the developmental and educational needs of children ages birth to five and their families. The local EI/ECSE program can provide a free screening and/or evaluation for children ages birth to five.
FACT Oregon empowers Oregon families experiencing disability in their pursuit of a whole life by expanding awareness, growing community, and equipping families.
Oregon Screening Project | Families can use this website to check if their child is developing in a typical way
REMINDERS
Coming soon – ELD will host another provider information session in May. More details will be shared soon.
Save the date: Week of the Young Child is April 2 to 8 NAEYC’s 2022 Week of the Young Child® celebration is April 2 to 8. Visit NAEYC.org/woyc for ideas and resources to help you plan.
MASK REQUIREMENT LIFTING MARCH 11, QUARANTINE GUIDANCE CHANGES
Earlier this week, Governor Brown announced Oregon will lift mask requirements for indoor public spaces and schools, including child care, on March 11, 2022 at 11:59 p.m. This decision is based on current COVID-19 case forecasting, which projects hospitalizations falling below 400 or fewer Oregonians per day by March 12. This will return Oregon to a level of hospitalization experienced prior to the Omicron variant. Additionally, because of high vaccination rates and previous infection due to Omicron, Oregon now has significant population immunity.
Beginning March 12, 2022, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) will pause the quarantine requirement for individuals exposed to COVID-19 in child care and K-12 settings. Staff and children who test positive must be excluded from child care and isolate at home for 5 days. They may then return when symptoms are improving and they have been fever-free for 24 hours. When returning to care, staff and children that had tested positive, if 2 years and older, should wear a well-fitting mask in child care and public settings for an additional 5 days after their isolation is completed.
The OHA and Early Learning Division (ELD) recommend that early education and child care programs notify families of an exposure so they can watch for symptoms or test, but children/staff exposed do not need to be excluded unless they are symptomatic or test positive. Early education and child care programs may choose to impose stricter isolation, quarantine or masking requirements.
The ELD will be updating its COVID-19 guidance document to include changes to mask requirements and isolation and quarantine guidelines. Please continue to stay connected via the Child Care Updates newsletter and social media for when a new version of this document is available.
Providers with questions can contact their licensing specialist, email ProviderContact@ode.oregon.gov or reference the FAQ below.
Q: What are the quarantine and isolation guidelines for child care settings? – Updated September 26, 2022
Due to declining COVID-19 case rates and high levels of immunity, Oregon Health Authority has removed the quarantine requirement for individuals exposed to COVID-19 in child care and K-12 settings. Individuals who test positive must be excluded from child care and isolate at home for 5 days. They may then return when symptoms are resolving and fever-free for 24 hours. When returning to care, that individual should wear a well-fitting mask in child care and public settings for 5 days after their isolation started. Early education and child care programs must notify families of an exposure so they can watch for symptoms, but children/staff exposed do not need to be excluded unless they develop symptoms or test positive. Early education and child care programs may choose to impose stricter isolation, quarantine or masking requirements.
Q: Does a child care program need to close if there’s a positive COVID-19 case? If so, for how long?
ELD does not require closure of programs. However, a program may need to close if there are too many staff excluded for isolation maintain operations and staffing ratios.
Q: What are child care providers required to communicate to families if there is a positive COVID-19 case? – Updated September 26, 2022
Early education and child care programs must notify families of an exposure so they can watch for symptoms, but children/staff exposed do not need to be excluded unless they are symptomatic or positive.
Q: Can a parent ask if a child care staff member is vaccinated?
The Early Learning Division does not have authority to determine if parents are allowed to ask vaccination status. A provider or staff member may choose to answer or not.
Q: Are masks still required indoors? – Updated September 26, 2022
The statewide indoor mask requirement ended on March 11, 2022. A child care program can choose whether to require masks.
The Early Learning Division and the Oregon Health Authority in alignment with the Center for Disease Control, strongly recommend that masks be worn by all individuals age 2 and older indoors when:
There are high levels of COVID-19 transmission in communities
There are medium levels of COVID-19 transmission and individuals are:
Unvaccinated
Immunocompromised
At high risk of COVID-19 hospitalization
65 and older or with underlying health conditions
Living with people who have underlying health conditions.
Some programs may choose to continue universal masking at lower COVID-19 community levels because it promotes an inclusive and supportive environment for those children and staff who are at higher risk for severe COVID-19.
Q: Can a parent ask their child care program to support distance learning?
This is a business decision that should be made by individual programs.
Q: Are testing kits available to child care programs? – Updated September 26, 2022
If you need a COVID-19 test, find resources here and here.
Q: Can a provider accept an at home COVID-19 test?
Yes
Q: Can you explain what is a “well-fitting mask” for children?
It’s any mask that fits snuggly and the child will wear reliably.
Q: Where can I find additional resources?
Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast of the Semantics, a large language ocean.
Daily screening is no longer required. However, staff and family should be aware of COVID-19 symptoms, and individuals should be excluded if symptoms develop. If symptomatic, it is recommended they get tested for C
Q: Are child care providers still required to notify Local Public Health if there is a positive COVID-19 case in their facility? – Updated September 26, 2022
Providers are required to notify the Local Public Health Authority immediately of unusually high levels of absenteeism (on any given day) due to respiratory illnesses (symptoms may include new cough, fever, shortness of breath, congestion/runny nose, new loss of taste or smell).
In home-based child care programs, providers must report to Local Public Health Authority when there are three or more staff or children absent due to respiratory illness.
In center-based, recorded, and school-based child care programs, providers must report to Local Public Health Authority when there are 10 or more staff or children absent due to respiratory illness.
Programs do not need to report elevated absenteeism when there is a non-disease related reason (i.e., day before or after a holiday or long weekend, child care children are participating in an out of school activity, etc.).
PROVIDER INFORMATION SESSION RECORDINGS AVAILABLE
The Early Learning Division held provider information sessions on March 1 and March 2. In these sessions, ELD discussed the rulemaking process, feedback opportunities, and COVID-19 updates.
Click here to view the March 1 (All Provider Types) English session.
Click here to view the March 2 (All Provider Types) Spanish session.
INFANT FORMULA RECALL: SIMILAC, ALIMENTUM AND ELECARE PRODUCTS
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is investigating certain brands of powdered infant formula. If you use powdered infant formula, be aware certain Similac, Alimentum and EleCare products have been recalled and should not be used. Here’s how you can tell if you have any of those products:
The FDA recommends consumers look at the lot code, a multidigit number on the bottom of a container of Similac, Alimentum and EleCare powdered infant formula and do not use if:
the first two digits of the code are 22 through 37; and
the code on the container contains K8, SH or Z2; and
the expiration date is 4-1-2022 (APR 2022) or later.
In addition to products described above, Abbott Nutrition has recalled Similac PM 60/40 with a lot code of 27032K80 (can) / 27032K800 (case).
Click here for more information on infections reported, symptoms, and locations.
CELEBRATE WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
Women’s contributions to America are largely missing from the traditional American history narrative. In honor of Women’s History Month, the Early Learning Division gathered the resources listed below to highlight stories from women who have contributed through their work, creativity, and resolve.
Supportive Environmental Quality Underlying Adult Learning (SEQUAL) Survey The deadline for the SEQUAL survey is Sunday, March 6, 2022. Look for an email from the Center for the Study of Child Care Employment (CSCCE) and titled “SEQUAL Survey: Oregon Early Educators Share Your Voice.” This research was made possible by the Early Learning Division.
Fire Safety Child Care Rulemaking Advisory Committee (RAC) The Early Learning Division recently passed temporary fire safety rules to serve as an alternative to the Department of Consumer Business Services sprinkler requirement. ELD is interested in engaging family child care programs and parents/caregivers with children in family child care programs to join this committee. Applications are due Friday, March 11, 2022. Click here for more information and to apply.
School-Age Child Care Rulemaking Advisory Committee (RAC) If you are connected to school-age child care programs or interested in providing this type of care, please consider applying to join this committee. This type of care is also known as out-of-school-time (OST) care and before- and afterschool care programs. Applications are due Friday, March 11, 2022. Click here for more information and to apply.
With falling hospitalization rates, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) announced it is lifting the statewide indoor mask requirement on March 11, 2022*. This change will apply to child care and the Early Learning Division (ELD) will update its “Child Care Provider COVID-19 Requirements and Recommendations” guidance.
Child care programs can still choose to continue masking. The ELD, in partnership with the OHA, still highly recommends that child care programs continue to have all individuals ages two and older wear masks. If an entire classroom or group does not wear masks, quarantine and isolation currently remains at 10 days. Masking helps to decrease the risk of COVID-19 spread and allows for a shorter return after illness or exposure in child care settings with low rates of vaccination overall.
Some things a program can consider:
Encourage eligible staff and children ages 5 and up to get vaccinated and boosted if they have not done so. Learn more at Get Vaccinated Oregon.
It’s recommended people at risk for severe COVID-19 continue masking and include people who are unvaccinated; immunocompromised; at high risk of COVID-19 hospitalization; 65 and older or with underlying health conditions; and those living with people who have underlying health conditions.
Those who are up to date on their vaccinations do not need to quarantine when exposed to COVID-19. Vaccination ensures continued access to in-person care.
While there have been many changes to child care guidance over the past two years, this represents a turning point in the pandemic for Oregon. Thanks to masks and booster shots, Oregon has had some of the lowest case rates (3rd lowest) and lowest death rates (7th lowest) in the country. At the state level, ELD and OHA will continue to monitor the path of the pandemic in Oregon and adjust our guidance to prioritize safety in child care settings for both children and providers.
“We know that the pandemic has been particularly challenging for those providing child care, and for the families who have been impacted by program closures,” said Alyssa Chatterjee, Oregon Early Learning System Director. “I am hopeful this is the first change of many that will start to resemble a return to ‘normal.’ However, we also must remember that COVID-19 is still present in Oregon – masking and vaccines continue to be the strongest tools to fight the virus. I want to thank you for your continued dedication to the children and families you work with every day.”
* The original version of this article stated the indoor mask requirement ended on March 19, 2022. The text has been updated to reflect Governor Brown’s announcement this morning (February 28) that moved the date up to March 11, 2022. ** On February 24, this article stated that masks were still required for everyone two years and older on public transportation, which included school buses, until lifted by the federal government and could not be waived by state or local authorities. This mandate was lifted on February 25.
Q: What are the quarantine and isolation guidelines for child care settings? – Updated September 26, 2022
Due to declining COVID-19 case rates and high levels of immunity, Oregon Health Authority has removed the quarantine requirement for individuals exposed to COVID-19 in child care and K-12 settings. Individuals who test positive must be excluded from child care and isolate at home for 5 days. They may then return when symptoms are resolving and fever-free for 24 hours. When returning to care, that individual should wear a well-fitting mask in child care and public settings for 5 days after their isolation started. Early education and child care programs must notify families of an exposure so they can watch for symptoms, but children/staff exposed do not need to be excluded unless they develop symptoms or test positive. Early education and child care programs may choose to impose stricter isolation, quarantine or masking requirements.
Q: Does a child care program need to close if there’s a positive COVID-19 case? If so, for how long?
ELD does not require closure of programs. However, a program may need to close if there are too many staff excluded for isolation maintain operations and staffing ratios.
Q: What are child care providers required to communicate to families if there is a positive COVID-19 case? – Updated September 26, 2022
Early education and child care programs must notify families of an exposure so they can watch for symptoms, but children/staff exposed do not need to be excluded unless they are symptomatic or positive.
Q: Can a parent ask if a child care staff member is vaccinated?
The Early Learning Division does not have authority to determine if parents are allowed to ask vaccination status. A provider or staff member may choose to answer or not.
Q: Are masks still required indoors? – Updated September 26, 2022
The statewide indoor mask requirement ended on March 11, 2022. A child care program can choose whether to require masks.
The Early Learning Division and the Oregon Health Authority in alignment with the Center for Disease Control, strongly recommend that masks be worn by all individuals age 2 and older indoors when:
There are high levels of COVID-19 transmission in communities
There are medium levels of COVID-19 transmission and individuals are:
Unvaccinated
Immunocompromised
At high risk of COVID-19 hospitalization
65 and older or with underlying health conditions
Living with people who have underlying health conditions.
Some programs may choose to continue universal masking at lower COVID-19 community levels because it promotes an inclusive and supportive environment for those children and staff who are at higher risk for severe COVID-19.
Q: Can a parent ask their child care program to support distance learning?
This is a business decision that should be made by individual programs.
Q: Are testing kits available to child care programs? – Updated September 26, 2022
If you need a COVID-19 test, find resources here and here.
Q: Can a provider accept an at home COVID-19 test?
Yes
Q: Can you explain what is a “well-fitting mask” for children?
It’s any mask that fits snuggly and the child will wear reliably.
Daily screening is no longer required. However, staff and family should be aware of COVID-19 symptoms, and individuals should be excluded if symptoms develop. If symptomatic, it is recommended they get tested for COVID-19.
Q: Are child care providers still required to notify Local Public Health if there is a positive COVID-19 case in their facility? – Updated September 26, 2022
Providers are required to notify the Local Public Health Authority immediately of unusually high levels of absenteeism (on any given day) due to respiratory illnesses (symptoms may include new cough, fever, shortness of breath, congestion/runny nose, new loss of taste or smell).
In home-based child care programs, providers must report to Local Public Health Authority when there are three or more staff or children absent due to respiratory illness.
In center-based, recorded, and school-based child care programs, providers must report to Local Public Health Authority when there are 10 or more staff or children absent due to respiratory illness.
Programs do not need to report elevated absenteeism when there is a non-disease related reason (i.e., day before or after a holiday or long weekend, child care children are participating in an out of school activity, etc.).
ELD PROVIDER INFORMATION SESSIONS: MARCH 1 AND 2
Join us for the March Provider Information Sessions:
Learn about the Early Learning Division’s rulemaking process
Review and provide feedback on draft rules
Check in on COVID-19
Note: These meetings are planned for an extra half hour to provide adequate time for the topics.
Tuesday, March 1 | 6 – 7:30 p.m. All provider types. Interpretation available. Note: Attendees using interpretation services in Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Chinese, and ASL should join this session via Zoom, not Facebook. Zoom Registration
Wednesday, March 2 | 6 – 7:30 p.m. All provider types. Presented in Spanish. Zoom Registration
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.
Fire Safety Child Care Rulemaking Advisory Committee (RAC)
We are interested in engaging family child care programs and parents/caregivers with children in family child care programs to join this committee. The Early Learning Division recently passed temporary fire safety rules to serve as an alternative to the Department of Consumer Business Services sprinkler requirement.
A RAC is a group of community members who help agency staff shape and implement rule language for child care programs. This committee will provide input for permanent fire safety rules that will apply to all Registered Family (RF) and Certified Family (CF) programs.
Participants will be reimbursed for their time dedicated to this RAC and will positively impact child care across Oregon. Applications are due Friday, March 11, 2022.
School-Age Child Care Rulemaking Advisory Committee (RAC)
If you are connected to school-age child care programs or interested in providing this type of care, please consider applying to join this committee. This type of care is also known as out-of-school-time (OST) care and before- and afterschool care programs. A RAC is a group of community members who help agency staff shape and implement rule language for school-age child care programs.
Participants will be reimbursed for their time dedicated to this RAC and will positively impact child care across Oregon. Applications are due Friday, March 11, 2022.
During the February 1, 2022 Provider Information Session, we shared data to show the percentages of providers by type receiving Stabilization grants. It came to our attention there was an error in how that data was gathered. We regret any confusion this may have caused and have posted the correct percentages to the Early Learning Division website. Click below for more information.
Correction to data reported on Stabilization grant saturation rateEnglish
FREE TRAINING SESSIONS
Supporting Kindergarten Transitions
Two upcoming FREE, virtual training sessions are being offered by the ABI Community to provide information and resources to help support children ages three to seven with an Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) in the transition to kindergarten. This session is hosted by NW Disability Support in partnership with Multnomah Early Childhood Program. Sessions will be offered in English with Spanish interpretation available. If you need interpretation, please register and request interpretation.
Portfolios: How to Truly Partner with your School Team for Success with Dr. Cindy Ryan March 10, 2022 | Click here for more information and to register. Visual Supports and Communication that Supports Success in Inclusive Settings April 14, 2022 | Click here for more information and to register.
About ABI Community: ABI Community empowers and supports families and individuals whose lives have been touched by developmental disability. ABI works to increase education, promote public understanding and acceptance, advocate for full inclusion, and defend the civil rights of individuals with disabilities. ABI & Northwest Down Syndrome Association (NWDSA) are programs of NW Disability Support, a 501c3 non-profit organization.
REMINDERS:
CPSC Sues Leachco Over Suffocation Hazard from Defective Infant Loungers, Seeks Notice and Refund to Consumers from Company Following reports of two infant deaths, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning consumers to immediately stop using the Podster, Podster Plush, Bummzie and Podster Playtime (the “Podsters”) infant loungers manufactured by Leachco, Inc. of Ada, Oklahoma. The Commission has found that the public health and safety requires this notice to warn the public quickly of the hazard. Click here for more information.
February is Black History Month Celebrate Black History Month with children, families, and colleagues in your early learning community. Click on the February 1 publication of Child Care Updates for a full list of resources and professional development opportunities.
Supportive Environmental Quality Underlying Adult Learning (SEQUAL) Survey The deadline for the SEQUAL survey (conducted by the Center for the Study of Child Care Employment (CSCCE) at the University of California, Berkeley) has been extended to March 6, 2022. Look for an email from CSCCE and titled “SEQUAL Survey: Oregon Early Educators Share Your Voice.” This research was made possible by the Early Learning Division.
By the end of March, hospitalizations are projected to fall below pre-Omicron levels (fewer than 400 COVID-19 hospitalizations). Oregon has fared better than almost every state in the nation throughout the pandemic with some of the lowest cases (3rd lowest) and death rates (8th lowest) in the country, because Oregonians made smart choices, like wearing masks and getting booster shots.
If the predicted pathway continues, then no later than March 31, 2022 OHA will lift the mask requirements from the statewide indoor mask rule. If hospitalizations fall to safer levels more quickly, before March 31, state health officials will consider lifting the statewide mask rule sooner for indoor public spaces.
What does this mean for child care?
Until changes to the statewide indoor face covering rule takes effect (on or before March 31, 2022), adults and children kindergarten age and older are still required to wear masks indoors, and masks are recommended for age two and older. Details are contained in the “Child Care Provider COVID-19 Requirements and Recommendations” document posted on the Early Learning Division (ELD) “For Providers” webpage.
Masks are required on public transportation, which includes school buses until lifted by the federal government and cannot be waived by state or local authorities.
As announced last week, the updated guidance for quarantine and isolation periods from 10 days to five days in licensed child care settings only applies if an entire classroom or group wears masks. The ELD, in partnership with the OHA, highly recommends all individuals ages two and older wear masks. If an entire classroom or group does not wear masks, quarantine and isolation remains at 10 days. Masking helps to decrease the risk of COVID-19 spread and allows for a shorter return after illness or exposure in child care settings with low rates of vaccination overall.
What can child care providers do to prepare?
The March 31 date gives programs time to prepare for the transition and gives providers time to get boosted, and for families to get their eligible children vaccinated. Some things a program can consider:
Encourage eligible staff and children ages 5 and up to get vaccinated and boosted now if they have not done so.
Vaccination remains the best protection against serious illness from COVID-19 and reduces spread of the disease.
Vaccination prevents quarantine when exposed to COVID-19 and ensures continued access to in-person care.
Frequently Asked Questions about isolation and quarantine in child care are posted on the ELD’s “For Providers” webpage and the “For Families” webpage. Click here to download the updated “Child Care Provider COVID-19 Recommendations and Requirements” guidance document. Providers with questions can contact their licensing specialist or email ProviderContact@ode.oregon.gov.
SAVE THE DATE: MARCH PROVIDER INFORMATION SESSIONS
Join the Early Learning Division (ELD) in March for an update on COVID-19 and rulemaking. Note: These meetings are planned for an extra half hour to provide adequate time for the topics.
Tuesday, March 1, 2022 | 6 to 7:30 p.m All provider types. (Interpretation available)
Wednesday, March 2, 2022 | 6 to 7:30 p.m. Spanish language. (All types)
UPDATES TO QUARANTINE AND ISOLATION PERIODS FOR CHILD CARE
The Early Learning Division (ELD), in partnership with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), is adjusting guidance for quarantine and isolation periods from 10 days to five days in licensed child care settings only if an entire classroom or group wears masks. The change was made after the Centers for Disease Control announced new guidance for child care on January 28, 2022.
ELD and OHA highly recommends all individuals ages two and older wear masks. All individuals who are kindergarten-age and older are required to wear masks. If an entire classroom or group does not wear masks, quarantine and isolation remains at 10 days.
“We know the 10-day period has been difficult for families to manage and has affected business operations for providers,” said Oregon Early Learning System Director Alyssa Chatterjee. “This adjustment should give greater flexibility to help respond to COVID-19 cases in care, while still keeping a focus on safety.”
Other key child care guidance points include the following:
Individuals who are up-to-date with vaccination/booster or have had COVID-19 in the last 90 days do not need to quarantine. They should monitor for symptoms.
In programs where there is not universal masking, and if significant hardship from a program closure would result from staff quarantining or isolating for 10 days, programs should consult with their Local Public Health Authority about crisis staffing strategies.
Child care programs may not completely eliminate quarantine with negative tests and universal masks at this time. Increasing access to tests for staff and children remains a goal of OHA.
UPDATED FEBRUARY 3, 2022 for language clarity
Frequently Asked Questions about isolation and quarantine in child care:
Q: What are the quarantine and isolation guidelines for child care settings? – Updated September 26, 2022
Due to declining COVID-19 case rates and high levels of immunity, Oregon Health Authority has removed the quarantine requirement for individuals exposed to COVID-19 in child care and K-12 settings. Individuals who test positive must be excluded from child care and isolate at home for 5 days. They may then return when symptoms are resolving and fever-free for 24 hours. When returning to care, that individual should wear a well-fitting mask in child care and public settings for 5 days after their isolation started. Early education and child care programs must notify families of an exposure so they can watch for symptoms, but children/staff exposed do not need to be excluded unless they develop symptoms or test positive. Early education and child care programs may choose to impose stricter isolation, quarantine or masking requirements.
Q: Does a child care program need to close if there’s a positive COVID-19 case? If so, for how long?
ELD does not require closure of programs. However, a program may need to close if there are too many staff excluded for isolation maintain operations and staffing ratios.
Q: What are child care providers required to communicate to families if there is a positive COVID-19 case? – Updated September 26, 2022
Early education and child care programs must notify families of an exposure so they can watch for symptoms, but children/staff exposed do not need to be excluded unless they are symptomatic or positive.
Q: Can a parent ask if a child care staff member is vaccinated?
The Early Learning Division does not have authority to determine if parents are allowed to ask vaccination status. A provider or staff member may choose to answer or not.
Q: Are masks still required indoors? – Updated September 26, 2022
The statewide indoor mask requirement ended on March 11, 2022. A child care program can choose whether to require masks.
The Early Learning Division and the Oregon Health Authority in alignment with the Center for Disease Control, strongly recommend that masks be worn by all individuals age 2 and older indoors when:
There are high levels of COVID-19 transmission in communities
There are medium levels of COVID-19 transmission and individuals are:
Unvaccinated
Immunocompromised
At high risk of COVID-19 hospitalization
65 and older or with underlying health conditions
Living with people who have underlying health conditions.
Some programs may choose to continue universal masking at lower COVID-19 community levels because it promotes an inclusive and supportive environment for those children and staff who are at higher risk for severe COVID-
Q: Can a parent ask their child care program to support distance learning?
This is a business decision that should be made by individual programs.
Q: Are testing kits available to child care programs? – Updated September 26, 2022
If you need a COVID-19 test, find resources here and here.
Q: Can a provider accept an at home COVID-19 test?
Yes
Q: Can you explain what is a “well-fitting mask” for children?
It’s any mask that fits snuggly and the child will wear reliably.
Daily screening is no longer required. However, staff and family should be aware of COVID-19 symptoms, and individuals should be excluded if symptoms develop. If symptomatic, it is recommended they get tested for COVID-19.
Q: Are child care providers still required to notify Local Public Health if there is a positive COVID-19 case in their facility? – Updated September 26, 2022
Providers are required to notify the Local Public Health Authority immediately of unusually high levels of absenteeism (on any given day) due to respiratory illnesses (symptoms may include new cough, fever, shortness of breath, congestion/runny nose, new loss of taste or smell).
In home-based child care programs, providers must report to Local Public Health Authority when there are three or more staff or children absent due to respiratory illness.
In center-based, recorded, and school-based child care programs, providers must report to Local Public Health Authority when there are 10 or more staff or children absent due to respiratory illness.
Programs do not need to report elevated absenteeism when there is a non-disease related reason (i.e., day before or after a holiday or long weekend, child care children are participating in an out of school activity, etc.).
TEMPORARY RULES ON FIRE SAFETY IN FAMILY CHILD CARE SETTINGS
Last week, the Early Learning Council adopted temporary rules to strengthen fire safety in family child care settings, which include Registered Family (RF) and Certified Family (CF). In April 2021, the Department of Consumer & Business Services (DCBS) Building Codes Structures Board passed rules requiring new RF and CF child care facilities to have an automatic residential fire sprinkler system installed, with potential alternate methods offered locally. The Early Learning Division’s (ELD) temporary rules provide changes that are significantly cheaper than installing residential sprinklers in new programs.
Maintaining life safety in child care is of critical importance. Over the coming months, the ELD will provide technical assistance and coaching to providers to help come into compliance with the temporary rules.
Some of the rule changes include the following for all RF and CF programs:
Install carbon monoxide detectors on each floor of the home and where children nap.
As an option, install straps to mount fire extinguishers in a visible location and a light to illuminate an exit path for night care. Fire extinguishers should be inspected monthly and documented.
Display a floor plan near the entrance, or in some other area of the home where they may be clearly viewed by parent(s) of children in care identifying the locations of the following: (A) Exits, (B) Primary evacuation routes, (C) Secondary evacuation routes, and (D) Fire extinguishers.
Fire drills shall be practiced monthly at varying times of day, including in the evening and during overnight hours for programs that care for children during those hours.
Maintain a written record of each emergency evacuation drill with documentation details stated in the rule.
The temporary rules will be in effect until May 26, 2022, at which time permanent rules will need to be adopted. The ELD will seek input from partners, including providers, before permanent rules are developed. Review the complete temporary rules below:
CALL FOR PARTICIPATION: KPI PROGRAM RULEMAKING ADVISORY COMMITTEE
If you are connected to the KPI program, please consider applying to join the Kindergarten Readiness Partnership & Innovation (KPI) Rulemaking Advisory Committee (RAC).
A RAC is a group of community members who will help the Early Learning Division shape and implement rule language for KPI programming. The Early Learning Kindergarten Readiness Partnership & Innovation program invests in promising models for connecting early learning and K-3 education across the state, and promotes community and school partnerships that result in measurable increases in children’s readiness for kindergarten.
Participants will be reimbursed for their time dedicated to this RAC and will positively impact partnerships across Oregon. Applications are due Friday, February 4, 2022.
FEBRUARY IS BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Celebrate Black History Month with children, families, and colleagues in your early learning community.
Black history is American history. Support year-long efforts to teach, honor, and celebrate the accomplishments, innovation, experiences, and perspectives of Black people.
This week is Black Lives Matter Week of Action. The goal of this movement is “to challenge structural and systemic racism while centering the lives of black students inside and outside of the classroom.” Read this article by Learning for Justice to find out more and get involved.
In addition, check out the below resources and professional development opportunities:
Spanish Language Provider Information Session: February 3 Join the Early Learning Division (ELD) on February 3 for the latest news and updates on COVID-19, Child Care Stabilization Grant Awards, and early learning programs. Click here to register for the February 3 event (Spanish language).
Take the Supportive Environmental Quality Underlying Adult Learning (SEQUAL) Survey An important study called SEQUAL (conducted by the Center for the Study of Child Care Employment (CSCCE) at the University of California, Berkeley) launched on January 19, 2022. Watch for an email from CSCCE and titled “SEQUAL Survey: Oregon Early Educators Share Your Voice.” Please complete the survey byFebruary 25, 2022. This research was made possible by the Early Learning Division.
As of January 19, 2022 the Early Learning Division (ELD) is no longer accepting COVID-19 supply orders and the form is closed. Any orders completed after January 18, 2022 will be cancelled. These supply packages included items such as masks, gloves, disinfectant wipes, etc. Recent demands for vaccine supplies and tests have required a shift in focus for the state distribution center.
If you have recently completed an order, the ELD will contact you with a status update. If you have questions regarding a recent order, please contact ECCGrants@ode.oregon.gov or 971-707-2029.
Reminder: If you received a Child Care Stabilization grant or Reopening grant, funds can be used to cover COVID-19 related expenses such as tests or masks.
UPCOMING PROVIDER INFORMATION SESSIONS
Join the Early Learning Division (ELD) in February to learn more:
The deadline to nominate an outstanding Oregon teacher for Regional Teacher of the Year is January 31, 2022. Click here to submit a nomination today. Regional winners will receive a $500 award in May 2022 and move a step closer to being named 2023 Oregon Teacher of the Year.
Candidates for Oregon Teacher of the Year are exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable, and skilled licensed public school educators in grades pre-K through 12. For more information on the program, visit oregonteacheroftheyear.org/about/.
REMINDERS:
Applications open for Alternative Rate Methodology Advisory Committee The deadline to apply to be a member on the Alternative Rate Methodology Advisory Committee is January 21, 2022 at 11:59 p.m. Apply and help develop and shape the principles and framework. Click here apply and for more information on the Committee and Child Care Cost of Quality Study.
Complete a Survey from the Center for the Study of Child Care Employment (CSCCE) Oregon is participating in a study called the Supportive Environmental Quality Underlying Adult Learning (SEQUAL) conducted by the Center for the Study of Child Care Employment (CSCCE) at the University of California, Berkeley. Watch for an email from CSCCE with a link to a SEQUAL survey. This research was made possible by the Early Learning Division.
With record COVID-19 case numbers and spread of the Omicron variant across Oregon, we know there are many questions about child care and potential updates to the child care guidance. Unlike for K-12 settings, the CDC has not yet updated its guidance for child care. However, the CDC and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) continues to direct all individuals who cannot safely wear a mask indoors and who will be eating in shared spaces should continue to isolate and quarantine for 10 days, as outlined in the September 2021 version of Early Learning Division’s (ELD) “Child Care Provider COVID-19 Requirements and Recommendations.”
Encouraging children two years and older, who are able to safely wear a mask while indoors, will further reduce risk of COVID-19 and promote health equity. Programs should consider adaptations and additions to infection prevention strategies to best serve children with disabilities.
If the CDC provides updated guidance for child care, the ELD, in partnership with the OHA, will share an update with providers.
The CDC also recommends that individuals remain up to date with their vaccines, which includes additional doses for those who are immunocompromised or booster doses at regular time points. Those who are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccination include:
Individuals 18 or older who have received all recommended vaccine doses, including boosters and additional primary shots for some immunocompromised people.
Children 5–17 years who have completed the primary series of COVID-19 vaccines.
REMINDER: Child Care Nurse Hotline Child care programs can access the toll-free Child Care Nurse Hotline, 1-833-647-8222, for assistance with COVID-19 questions and concerns. The hotline is available to providers and staff seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
SAVE THE DATE: FEBRUARY PROVIDER INFORMATION SESSIONS
Join ELD for upcoming provider sessions in February. These are virtual events. Registration and agenda coming soon.
Tuesday, February 1 | 6 to 7 p.m. All provider types. (Interpretation available)
Thursday, February 3 | 6 to 7 p.m. Spanish language. (All types)
OREGON DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES CHILD CARE PROVIDER RATES ARE INCREASING EFFECTIVE STARTING JANUARY 1, 2022
Payment rates are increasing for child care providers who are caring for children from families receiving Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) assistance with child care costs. Click here to view the new rates. Child care rates are based on a statewide Market Price Study to ensure families have equal access to quality child care. This change will not change family copayment amounts.
EMPLOYMENT RELATED DAY CARE (ERDC) PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY: INCOME LIMIT INCREASE
The initial income limit for the Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program is increasing from 185% to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Effective January 1, 2022, this new ERDC income limit aligns with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and expands access to child care assistance for Oregon families. Click here to view the income limits. Share this update with families in your early learning community.
UPCOMING SURVEY FROM THE CENTER FOR THE STUDY OF CHILD CARE EMPLOYMENT (CSCCE)
Oregon will be participating in a study called the Supportive Environmental Quality Underlying Adult Learning (SEQUAL) conducted by the Center for the Study of Child Care Employment (CSCCE) at the University of California, Berkeley. As part of the study, eligible licensed child care providers in Oregon will be asked to complete a SEQUAL survey. Complete the survey and share your thoughts on how your work environment can support your efforts to provide the best early learning experiences for children in your program.
Watch for an email from CSCCE with a link to the survey in the next few weeks. This research was made possible by the Early Learning Division.
CHILD CARE COST OF QUALITY WEBINAR AND ALTERNATIVE RATE METHODOLOGY ADVISORY COMMITTEE
On January 6, lead researchers Simon Workman and Jeanna Capito reviewed the results of the Child Care Cost of Quality study. Click here to watch a recording of the webinar and download the presentation slides. This webinar also covered how ELD will use these results to transition child care provider rates for the Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program to an approved alternate rate-setting structure, one that sets ERDC payment rates based on the true costs of delivering high-quality early care and education.
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