Tag: CCU-2023

Happy Holidays from the Department of Early Learning and Care.

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CALL FOR PARTICIPATION: Micro-Center Pilot Program Rulemaking Advisory Committee (RAC) 

During the 2023 legislative session, Senate Bill 1040 passed and requires The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) to create a Micro-Center Pilot Program. The Micro-Center Pilot Program will select and work with small capacity child care programs from across the state to identify their unique barriers to licensing. The pilot will support the development of a sustainable model for micro-centers to provide affordable, high quality early learning opportunities to communities in this state.  

DELC will create Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) to outline the pilot program application process, eligibility and selection criteria, and program guidelines. DELC will create a Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) to gather valuable feedback on the proposed rules and identify financial and equity impacts related to rule implementation.  

DELC would like to invite members of the following groups to apply to participate in the RAC: 

• Directors/representatives of certified centers from across the state, particularly those representing centers with a capacity of less than 30 children. 
• Parents/family members of children in these types of programs 
• Registered and Certified Family Home providers 
• Union Representative 
• Micro-center community advocates or subject matter experts 
• Representatives from culturally specific organizations working with young children 
• Early Learning Hub representatives 
• Tribal nation representatives 
• Child Care Resource and Referral representatives 

Participants will be compensated for their time and insights. The application period opens December 18, 2023 and closes January 19, 2024. There will be one RAC Meeting held Tuesday, January 30^th from 3:00pm-5:00pm. 

To apply for the Mico-Center Pilot Rules Advisory Committee, go to Department of Early Learning and Care : Rule Making : About Us : State of Oregon 

Apply now: 

• Application in English  
• Aplicación en e spañol 
• 中文申请 
• Приложение на русском языке 
• Ứng dụng bằng tiếng Việt 

For questions about participation, please contact Carol Petersen carol.a.petersen@delc.oregon.gov 

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Healthy Families Oregon (HFO) grant opportunity: Support families in Lincoln and Clackamas County! 

Apply to provide services with a Healthy Families Oregon (HFO) home visiting grant opportunity.  

The Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) and the Healthy Families Oregon program are happy to announce a grant opportunity for the Lincoln County region and the Clackamas County region. This grant will support HFO home visitor services in each of these counties.  

What is HFO? 

HFO is an evidence-based, voluntary Home Visiting program nationally accredited by Healthy Families America (HFA). The HFO program supports the economic prosperity of Oregon by preventing child abuse and neglect, promoting healthy child development, improving family self-sufficiency, and helping parents prepare their children for kindergarten.  

Who can apply? 

The following types of organizations are encouraged to apply: 

• Multi-purpose, not-for-profit entities with a mission and goals compatible with the goals of HFO programs; 
• Single-purpose, not-for-profit entities with expertise and experience in providing HFO related services; 
• State or local government entities or special governmental bodies with expertise in these types of services that have a strong track record of working with human service partners in their communities; and 
• Coordinated Care Organizations that have experience operating early childhood, parent support programs within their local communities.  

Visit the grant opportunities linked below to learn more about the goals of this grant, HFO Home Visiting Services, and to apply!   

Lincoln County grant: https://oregonbuys.gov/bso/external/bidDetail.sdo?docId=S-58800-00008687&external=true&parentUrl=close 

Clackamas County grant: https://oregonbuys.gov/bso/external/bidDetail.sdo?docId=S-58800-00008760&external=true&parentUrl=close 

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Announcing the new Early Learning Council members

The Early Learning Council is charged with coordinating a unified and aligned system of early learning throughout Oregon to ensure that all children, no matter what their background or their community, enter school ready to learn and that all families are healthy, stable and attached. The council follows the work of the five year early learning system strategic plan, Raise Up Oregon. 

Visit the DELC blog to learn more about the newest members to the Early Learning Council!

DELC Blog: Announcing new Early Learning Council (ELC) members! – News & Information (delcnews.org) 

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Announcing the Regional Service Providers intended awardees

We are excited to announce that the agencies listed below are the intended awardees to become Regional Service Providers.

Regional Service Providers will work closely with The Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) to:

• Build collaborative partnerships with regional providers;
• Develop and implement culturally responsive, equity-centered Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation;
• Respond to support requests from early learning and care providers; and
• Fulfill additional requirements in line with the goal of preventing and reducing disparities in the use of suspension and expulsion

You can learn more about Regional Service Providers by visiting the DELC website.

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Reminder: Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit (WFHDC)

Did you know Oregon offers a tax credit to help families pay for childcare while they are working, looking for work, or attending school? The Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit (WFHDC) helps families with qualifying expenses—like paying for childcare at a licensed facility. 

Qualified expenses must be paid by the family for care. Families must be able to prove that they paid qualified expenses to claim this credit. Proof of both the payment and a receipt from the childcare provider are required for each expense paid. Taxpayers who knowingly file a false claim for the WFHDC Credit and care providers or other individuals who knowingly assist in the filing of a false claim can be penalized. 

For more information on income limits, qualifications, and instructions on how to claim the credit, see the Department of Revenue website. Help spread the word about this resource! If you’d like copies of a flyer to share this information with your clients, you can provide your address and the quantity you need to Jessica Wangler at DOR. 

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Reminder: Certified Child Care Center information video series

The Certified Child Care Center information video series will help Certified Child Care Center administrators and staff understand upcoming rule changes effective January 1, 2024.

You can visit DELC’s YouTube playlist Oregon Certified Child Care Center Rule Informational Series to use this resource!  

Visit our YouTube page at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAB5luO3GasbPTfdsBgxf6quAICtHpDBB&si=DGNsBTGzoABM5Sba

Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit (WFHDC)

Did you know Oregon offers a tax credit to help families pay for childcare while they are working, looking for work, or attending school? The Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit (WFHDC) helps families with qualifying expenses—like paying for childcare at a licensed facility. 

Qualified expenses must be paid by the family for care. Families must be able to prove that they paid qualified expenses to claim this credit. Proof of both the payment and a receipt from the childcare provider are required for each expense paid. Taxpayers who knowingly file a false claim for the WFHDC Credit and care providers or other individuals who knowingly assist in the filing of a false claim can be penalized. 

For more information on income limits, qualifications, and instructions on how to claim the credit, see the Department of Revenue website. Help spread the word about this resource! If you’d like copies of a flyer to share this information with your clients, you can provide your address and the quantity you need to Jessica Wangler at DOR. 

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Certified Child Care Center Information Video Series

The Certified Child Care Center information video series will help Certified Child Care Center administrators and staff understand upcoming rule changes effective January 1, 2024.

You can visit DELC’s YouTube playlist Oregon Certified Child Care Center Rule Informational Series to use this resource!  

Visit our YouTube page at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAB5luO3GasbPTfdsBgxf6quAICtHpDBB&si=DGNsBTGzoABM5Sba

Public Hearings and Public Comment Periods 

There is a set of public hearing and comment periods happening in the month of November 2023. Please see the list below and click each link if you are interested in learning more about these opportunities.  

• November 15th, 4 PM: ERDC Rule Change (Payment Rates & Late Payments) 
• November 15th, 5PM: Certified School-age Center Rules 
• November 16th, 5PM: Amends Adult-to-child Ratios for Provider’s Children in Certified Family Child Care Homes 
• November 16th, 6PM: Amends Adult-to-child Ratios for Provider’s Children in Registered Family Child Care Homes 
• November 17th, 5PM:  General Rules for All Child Care Facilities (Hearings) 

For all proposed rule sets, the Public Comment Period ends on November 29th at 5PM. This will ensure that DELC has one week to consider public comments before the proposed rules are brought to the Early Learning Council for action. 

You can also find these links on our website at: https://www.oregon.gov/delc/about-us/Pages/rule-making.aspx

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Certified Center Information Session 

Certified Child Care Centers are invited to a virtual information event! 

Learn about the new rules for Certified Centers, effective January 1, 2024.  

During the session, you will: 

• Hear from CCLD managers and staff, 
• Receive an overview of the key rule changes, and 
• Connect with additional resources 

Dates and Times 

• Thursday, November 30th from 10:00-11:00am 
  Register here:  https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_k2kvLLPlTryL5wR_Kmsy3Q 

• Tuesday, December 5th from 6:00pm-7:00pm* 
  Register here: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_dO-dtLNRTlWrnSXreD6j0Q 
  *Spanish interpretation available AND we would like this session to be on Facebook live. 

Registration is required to attend via Zoom. 

Please share this opportunity with your network!  

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Reminder: Employment Related Day Care Program opens Waitlist on November 4, 2023

As of this month, November 2023, the Employment Related Day Care program opened a waitlist because of the increased demand and limited funding. Families currently receiving ERDC will not be affected by the waitlist and will continue receiving benefits.  

To learn more about this waitlist and find resources for families visit our ERDC website page.

The updated Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) Child Care Provider Guide will be shipped to ERDC providers soon. You can also access the new guide online in English, Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, and Simplified Chinese. ERDC providers can visit oregon.gov/delc/providers/pages/erdc-providers.aspx for more information, forms, and resources.

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Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program will open a waitlist next week 

The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) reminds families that the Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program will open a waitlist next week.  Families should apply by November 3, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. if they think they may be eligible. 

Here is what families need to know: 

• Families currently receiving ERDC will continue to receive benefits as usual after November 3, 2023. 
• Families earning up to 200% of the federal poverty level (e.g., up to $5,000 per month for a family of four) may be eligible for ERDC and are encouraged to apply right away. 
  
• Families can apply in the following ways: 
  Go to Benefits.Oregon.gov
  Visit or call their local office 
  Dial 1-800-699-9075 

• Families can text the word “children” to 898211 or call 211 if they need help finding their local office or figuring out how to apply to ERDC. 
  
• Some families outlined in Oregon rule can skip the waitlist: 
  Families recently or currently receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Temporary Assistance for Domestic Violence Survivors (TA-DVS)  
  Families referred by the Child Welfare division of the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) 
  Families reapplying for ERDC within two months of benefits ending. 

• After November 3, 2023, families applying for ERDC that do not meet an exemption above will be placed on a waitlist. DELC will regularly follow up with families on the waitlist to provide updates. 
• The waitlist is likely to be in place for at least 18 months, depending on the level of investment and the rate at which families leave the program. 
• Families who need support paying for child care after November 3, 2023 are encouraged to reach out to 211 or their local Early Learning Hub to learn more about programs such as Preschool Promise and Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten. 

Go to Oregon.gov/DELC/ERDC to learn more. 

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To Improve Permitting for Child Care Facilities in Oregon, Agencies Launch Study  

In Oregon, rules about where buildings can go, how they are constructed, and how they can be used may affect the number of places early learning and care facilities are established. These rules include things like local land use plans, limits on building or facility location, and the codes and permits needed to operate a child care facility. 

The Oregon legislature passed House Bill 2727 earlier this year. House Bill 2727 directs the Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) to coordinate a work group in consultation with the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) and report back to the legislature by December 31, 2024. develop a report. Together, the agencies will identify how existing permitting regulations affect child care in Oregon and identify strategies for the legislature’s consideration as it strives to provide adequate early learning and child care for all Oregon families.  

DLCD is currently accepting applications from interested Oregonians to serve on our work group. Applications will be accepted through November 20, 2023. 

Get Involved 

If you or someone you know is interested in participating in this important work, there are three options: (1) apply to be a work group member, (2) request to be interviewed, and (3) provide written comments.  

Questions about the work group or interested in being interviewed or provide information? Contact Kelly Reid at kelly.reid@dlcd.oregon.gov. 

General Questions? Contact Angie Brewer at angie.brewer@dlcd.oregon.gov. 

Stay informed! Sign up for GovDelivery notifications on this topic. 

Apply to Serve on the Work Group 

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October is Safe Sleep awareness month 

October is Safe Sleep awareness month.  Our Healthy Families Oregon program is committed to educating families about safe sleep practices to keep their little ones healthy and happy.  

September 15 to October 15 is National Latinx & Hispanic Heritage Month. 

The Department of Early Learning and Care recognizes and honors the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society! 

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After November 3, 2023, Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) will open a waitlist because of increased demand and limited funding.  

Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) helps families who are working, getting TANF, or in school pay for child care. ERDC has recently changed to work better for families. In the last few months, thousands of families have joined the program. After November 3, 2023, ERDC will open a waitlist because of increased demand and limited funding.  

Should providers still sign up to accept ERDC families or complete a re-evaluation form since fewer families could be in the program? What are the benefits?  

Child care providers interested in getting listed as an ERDC provider should still apply. Current ERDC providers should maintain their listing to ensure they are available for families eligible for ERDC.  

• While the waitlist is in effect, certain families can still enroll in ERDC and they are families who likely need the support the most.  
• By participating in the ERDC program, providers are supporting parents with low incomes to access affordable child care services, which contributes positively to their community.  
• In addition, many families who are already enrolled in ERDC have not selected a provider.  

211 and CCR&Rs will continue to direct families to ERDC providers.  

What can I tell families about the ERDC waitlist? 

If families are getting ERDC now, the waitlist will not affect them. They will continue to receive benefits. Additionally, some families can skip the waitlist once it begins. 

• You can encourage families that think they may qualify for ERDC to apply before 11:59pm on November 3, 2023. After November 3, encourage the family to be screened for waitlist exemption eligibility, even if they don’t believe they will qualify. Families can visit Benefits.Oregon.gov or contact their local office to apply for ERDC.   
• You can help families getting ERDC by reminding them to renew timely. Families can renew 45 days before their eligibility period ends. 
• If you know a family that has ERDC but hasn’t chosen a provider, encourage them to call 211 or text the word “children” to 898211 for help connecting to a provider. 

Other important information for families, including waitlist exemptions, can be found in the materials below. You can also visit our website at oregon.gov/DELC/ERDC. 

ERDC Waitlist One Pager  

English | Español/Spanish | Русский/Russian | 繁體中文/Chinese(Traditional) | Tiếng Việt/Vietnamese  

ERDC Family Resource Guide  

English | Español/Spanish | Русский/Russian | 繁體中文/Chinese(Traditional) |  Tiếng Việt/Vietnamese 

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Statewide Household Survey Report

The Preschool Development Grant (PDG) Research Team has published the 2022 Statewide Household Survey Report. The report presents the results of the third statewide survey administered to parents and other caregivers of children aged 0 to 5. The survey was conducted from December 2022 through January 2023.  

The findings provide important information about the needs for child care and the challenges to finding care currently faced by Oregon families.  

You can visit the DELC website to read the full report. You can also review the executive summaries in multiple languages.  

Department of Early Learning and Care : Oregon Preschool Development Grant: Strengths and Needs Assessment : For Providers : State of Oregon 

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Growing Enrollment of Oregon’s Employment Related Day Care program Prompts Waitlist after November 3 

Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) announced they will pause Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program enrollment and open a waitlist due to increased demand and limited funding. Families who believe they are eligible for ERDC should apply by November 3, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. 

Families currently receiving ERDC support will continue to receive benefits after November 3, 2023. 

To read the full press release visit News – News & Information (delcnews.org) 

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NEW Rules Advisory Group Opportunity 

The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) is implementing new rules related to several new legislative bills as well as an update to the ERDC rate tables.  We are creating a Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) to gather valuable feedback.

Applications are due by October 11, 2023    

 This RAC will include review of proposed changes to rules regarding:   

• ERDC payments paid on a date later than the date specified by rule, will be paid in an amount that includes an additional nine percent.  (HB 2468)  
   
• A licensed family child care provider’s own children between 10 and 12 years of age will no longer be counted in licensed capacity or adult to child ratios, unless the child has special needs or disabilities which require a level of care that is above normal for the child’s age. (HB 2468)  
   
• New ERDC rate tables  
   
• New CBR rules pertaining to Individuals contracted or employed as EI/ECSE providers, Respite care providers, and allowing limited enrollment for exempt prohibited individuals. (HB 3558, SB 283, HB 2599)  
   
• Adds Assault IV felony convictions to the list of disqualifying crimes for CBR enrollment to maintain federal compliance with the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF)  
   

DELC would like to invite members of the following groups to apply to participate in the RAC:   

• Registered Family Child Care Providers   
• Certified Family Child Care Providers   
• Subsidized unlicensed programs   
• Representatives from child care provider unions   
• Child Care Center Directors/Representatives    
• School Age Center Program Coordinators and Program Leaders   
• Parents/family members of children in programs   
• Early Learning Hub representatives  
• Respite Care Providers  
• Educational Service District (ESD) employees who provide or work with Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education (EI/ECSE) services 
• Tribal Nation representatives   
• Representatives from culturally specific organizations    
• Child Care Resource & Referral representatives   
   

Participants will be compensated for their time and feedback. There will be one RAC Meeting for 2 hours in length.    

This RAC will occur on  October 26, 2023 at 3:00 to 5:00pm   

Apply in English  

Aplicación en español 

Приложение на русском языке   

中文申请 

Ứng dụng bằng tiếng Việt 

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The Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program (ECSEPP) extended its deadline for regional service provider applications.  

The deadline to apply to for the ECSEPP regional service provider grant has been extended from September 15 to October 6. 

What is a Regional Service Provider?  

A Regional Service Provider is an organization that provides Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC) services to Early Care and Education Providers and coordinates IECMHC services with other early childhood technical assistance providers, to promote Early Care and Education Provider access to resources, training, and other technical assistance opportunities. 

Applicants can choose from two options when applying to become a Regional Service Provider. 

Option 1 (Planning Grant): 
Applicants who are interested but may need a period of time for planning have the option to apply for a planning grant. 

Option 2 (Implementation Grant):  
Applicants who believe they are ready to begin implementation of equity-centered IECMHC have the option to apply for an implementation grant.  

Prior experience implementing Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation is NOT required! 

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• The Early Learning Council is looking for five new members to shape early childhood policy in Oregon and we need your help in getting the word out! These positions are appointed by Governor Kotek and individuals who are interested are encouraged to apply. This Council ensures that our state-funded early childhood programs and investments are coordinated in a way that is accessible to children and families. We hope you’ll consider either applying yourself or sharing this with individuals who may be interested. Read more about this opportunity … 

IN THIS ISSUE: September Provider Information Sessions; Staying safe during wildfire season; we are looking for Rule Advisory Committee members; the Early Learning Council is recruiting; and the Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program (ECSEPP) needs Regional Service Providers. 

September Provider Information Sessions

Wednesday, September 20 
All provider types. (Interpretation available) 
ZOOM Registration
 

Thursday, September 21 
All provider types. (Conducted in Spanish) 
ZOOM Registration 

Agenda 

• Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) Launch 
• Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) Updates  
• Agency and Program Updates 

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Staying safe during wildfire season 

Wildfire season means the air quality might create unsafe situations for young children. It’s important to know what the air quality index means for those most at-risk and how to stay safe.  

To learn more about your local areas air quality visit http://www.deq.state.or.us/aqi/.  

Did you know… 

• Children aged 0-4 are one of the most smoke-sensitive groups in our communities, due to their still developing lungs.  
• Children in this age group with chronic heart and lung disease are even more susceptible to the negative health effects of wildfire smoke.  
• Protective N95respirators, unfortunately, don’t fit this age group well enough to protect them. So, we don’t have many tools for protecting kiddos outdoors. 

The graphic below can be used as some general guidance for all outdoor activities and is shared by our partners at the Oregon Health Authority.  

You can find more wildfire public health guidance by visiting the Oregon Health Authority website.

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Give us your feedback. Join our Rules Advisory Committee! 

The Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD) will create a Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) to gather valuable feedback on a new rule set that will apply to all child care facilities. This rule set is known as “General Rules for All Child Care Facilities”.  

The application deadline is September 22, 2023.  

You will be compensated for your time!   
There will be three RAC Meetings. Each meeting will be 90 minutes long.  

The selected group will be polled for the best meeting dates.  

DELC would like to invite members of the following groups to apply to participate in the RAC: 

• Subsidized Child Care Providers 
• Registered Family Child Care Providers 
• Certified Family Child Care Providers 
• Representatives from child care provider unions 
• Child Care Center Directors/Representatives  

• School Age Center Program Coordinators and Program Leaders 
• Parents/family members of children in programs 
• Early Learning Hub representatives  
• Tribal Nation representatives 
• Representatives from culturally specific organizations  

• Child Care Resource & Referral representatives 

For more details visit the DELC rule making page General Rules for All Child Care Facilities Committee section. [https://www.oregon.gov/delc/about-us/Pages/rule-making.aspx] 

Or visit the application in your preferred language and apply now: 

Apply in English: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/31d97e164df042f5bf48d97f0223a5ef 

Aplicación en español: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/8c21d30514cc4d75ae09511754401d16 

Приложение на русском языке: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/3ac23b1f19f9404281c6e626e97e6c1a 

中文申请: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/822b14ac15c445fbb85f9e1f2a3b2b97 

Ứng dụng bằng tiếng Việt: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/e10317a1925d410885b68271425667b9 

Share this opportunity by posting or sharing this promotional flier: 

English  |  Spanish  |  Russian  |  Chinese  |  Vietnamese 

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The Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program (ECSEPP) extended its deadline for regional service provider applications. 

The deadline to apply to for the ECSEPP regional service provider grant has been extended from September 15 to October 6. 

What is a Regional Service Provider?  

A Regional Service Provider is an organization that provides Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC) services to Early Care and Education Providers and coordinates IECMHC services with other early childhood technical assistance providers, to promote Early Care and Education Provider access to resources, training, and other technical assistance opportunities. 

Applicants can choose from two options when applying to become a Regional Service Provider. 

Option 1 (Planning Grant): 

Applicants who are interested but may need time for planning can apply for a planning grant. 

Option 2 (Implementation Grant):  
Applicants who believe they are ready to begin implementation of equity-centered Infant and early childhood mental health consultations have can apply for an implementation grant.  

Prior experience implementing Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation is NOT required! 

Apply and review the requirements for becoming a regional service provider today! https://oregonbuys.gov/bso/external/bidDetail.sdo?docId=S-58800-00007740&external=true&parentUrl=close] 

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Reminders:  

• The Early Learning Council is looking for five new members to shape early childhood policy in Oregon and we need your help in getting the word out! These positions are appointed by Governor Kotek and individuals who are interested are encouraged to apply. This Council ensures that our state-funded early childhood programs and investments are coordinated in a way that is accessible to children and families. We hope you’ll consider either applying yourself or sharing this with individuals who may be interested. Read more about this opportunity … 
  

A letter from the Director:
Recognizing the importance of Labor Day and the Early Childhood Education Workforce

Dear Partners,

This Friday is September 1st, which marks two months since the official launch of the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC). Friday is also the start of Labor Day weekend, an important time to recognize Oregon’s child care professionals who have a great responsibility to care for and educate our children in their earliest years.

DELC was created to unify and strengthen Oregon’s early learning and care system. The strength of this system is largely held by the child care and early educator workforce who provide critical care and support to children and families across Oregon.

In Oregon, 60% of children under age 6 have both parents in the workforce, making child care the workforce that supports all other workforces. When parents lack access to quality child care, our economy is affected. Fifty-four percent of Oregon employers say that access to child care impacts their ability to hire and/or retain employees, and 33% of businesses felt that child care issues factored “a great deal” into loss of productivity for employees. As a result, Oregon is estimated to have lost $1.4B in revenue due to the lack of infant and toddler child care alone.

However, child care continues to be an under-resourced and undervalued profession. Our latest data shows that child care workers earn an average of $13.00-18.00/hour, and often do not have access to benefits like healthcare, retirement or sick leave. In a recent survey, 26% of Early Childhood Education providers ranked at the level of anxiety that could indicate they need to get screened for clinical diagnosis, a rate more than 5 times that in the general population.

In our efforts to strengthen Oregon’s early learning system, DELC will continue to develop a cohesive professional learning system, grow the overall workforce and reduce barriers to child care while maintaining health and safety for children in care.

As we head into Labor Day weekend, remember the workforce that helps you get to work and thank the child care worker or early educator in your life.

– Alyssa Chatterjee

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Give us your feedback. Join our Rules Advisory Committee! 

The Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD) will create a Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) to gather valuable feedback on a new rule set that will apply to all child care facilities. This rule set is known as “General Rules for All Child Care Facilities”.

The application deadline is September 22, 2023.

You will be compensated for your time!   
There will be three RAC Meetings. Each meeting will be 90 minutes long.  

The selected group will be polled for the best meeting dates.  

DELC would like to invite members of the following groups to apply to participate in the RAC: 

• Subsidized Child Care Providers 
• Registered Family Child Care Providers 

• Certified Family Child Care Providers 
• Representatives from child care provider unions 
• Child Care Center Directors/Representatives  
• School Age Center Program Coordinators and Program Leaders 
• Parents/family members of children in programs 

• Early Learning Hub representatives  
• Tribal Nation representatives 
• Representatives from culturally specific organizations  
• Child Care Resource & Referral representatives 

For more details visit the DELC rule making page General Rules for All Child Care Facilities Committee section. [https://www.oregon.gov/delc/about-us/Pages/rule-making.aspx] 

Or visit the application in your preferred language and apply now: 

Promotional Fliers for this RAC
English  |  Spanish  |  Russian 
Chinese  |  Vietnamese 

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The Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program (ECSEPP) extended its deadline for regional service provider applications.  

The deadline to apply to for the ECSEPP regional service provider grant has been extended from September 15 to October 6. 

What is a Regional Service Provider?  

A Regional Service Provider is an organization that provides Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC) services to Early Care and Education Providers and coordinates IECMHC services with other early childhood technical assistance providers, to promote Early Care and Education Provider access to resources, training, and other technical assistance opportunities. 

Applicants can choose from two options when applying to become a Regional Service Provider. 

Option 1 (Planning Grant): 
Applicants who are interested but may need a period of time for planning have the option to apply for a planning grant. 

Option 2 (Implementation Grant):  
Applicants who believe they are ready to begin implementation of equity-centered IECMHC have the option to apply for an implementation grant.  

Prior experience implementing Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation is NOT required! 

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• The Early Learning Council is looking for five new members to shape early childhood policy in Oregon and we need your help in getting the word out! These positions are appointed by Governor Kotek and individuals who are interested are encouraged to apply. This Council ensures that our state-funded early childhood programs and investments are coordinated in a way that is accessible to children and families. We hope you’ll consider either applying yourself or sharing this with individuals who may be interested. Read more about this opportunity … 
  
• The application to be on the Rule Advisory Committee for Certified School-Age Centers closes September 15. Learn More on the DELC website. Also, here are promotional fliers for this RAC to share with your community English | Spanish. 

IN THIS ISSUE: The Early Learning Council is recruiting new members; we are calling for participation in the new Rule Advisory Committee for Certified School-Age Centers; A REMINDER about the Office of Child Care Name Change passed; the Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program (ECSEPP) needs Regional Service Providers. 

Early Learning Council Member Recruitment 

The Early Learning Council is looking for five new members to shape early childhood policy in Oregon and we need your help in getting the word out!

These positions are appointed by Governor Kotek and individuals who are interested are encouraged to apply. This Council ensures that our state-funded early childhood programs and investments are coordinated in a way that is accessible to children and families. We hope you’ll consider either applying yourself or sharing this with individuals who may be interested. 
 
Read more about this opportunity . . . 

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Rule Advisory Committee for Certified School-Age Centers! 

The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) will be updating the Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) for Certified School-Age Centers. The Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD) will create a Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) to gather valuable feedback on proposed rule changes and identify supports that may be needed to implement the proposed changes. 

DELC would like to invite members of the following groups to apply to participate in the RAC: 

• Directors/representatives from certified school-age centers from across the state 
• Parents/family members of children in these types of programs 

• Community partners working with young children in child care settings 
• Early Learning Hub representatives 
• Tribal nation representatives 
• Child Care Resource and Referral representatives 

Participants will be compensated for their time and insights. 

There will be one RAC Meeting held Wednesday, October 11th from 11:00-1:00pm. 

The application period is August 14 through September 15 

Promotional Fliers for this RAC English | Spanish 

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The Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program (ECSEPP) is accepting applications for Regional Service Providers. 

What is a Regional Service Provider?  

A Regional Service Provider is an organization that provides Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC) services to Early Care and Education Providers and coordinates IECMHC services with other early childhood technical assistance providers, to promote Early Care and Education Provider access to resources, training, and other technical assistance opportunities. 

What is Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation? 

Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (“IECMHC”) means a prevention-based approach that pairs a mental health consultant with adults who work with infants and young children in the different settings where they learn and grow, such as childcare, preschool, home visiting, and early intervention.   

Applicants can choose from two options when applying to become a Regional Service Provider. 

Prior experience implementing Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation is NOT required! 

Option 1 (Planning Grant): 
Applicants who are interested but may need a period of time for planning have the option to apply for a planning grant. 

Option 2 (Implementation Grant):  
Applicants who believe they are ready to begin implementation of equity-centered IECMHC have the option to apply for an implementation grant.  

Apply and review the requirements for becoming a Regional Service Provider today!

More about ECSEPP 

The goal of the ECSEPP is to prevent and reduce disparities in the use of suspension, expulsion, and other exclusionary practices. Regional Service Providers will support the social-emotional well-being of young children by implementing culturally responsive, equity-centered Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC).  

Questions? Contact Laura Sprehe (laura.sprehe@delc.oregon.gov).   

Applications are due on September 15, 2023 

Visit our website to find promotional materials to help us spread the word about this opportunity. 

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Office of Child Care Name Change 

We are happy to inform you that the Office of Child Care (OCC) will now be named Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD).  

You may have noticed the new name rolling out on our website and various other digital platforms, as well as on forms and communications coming from the CCLD. This will continue in the coming months. 

Again, we want to reassure you that despite the name change, the role and functions of CCLD remain unchanged, and there is no action required from child care providers regarding this change. 

In addition, the Child Care Licensing Division now has a new email address. The customer service phone number will remain the same: 

• New CCLD Email: CCLD.Customerservice@delc.oregon.gov 
• CCLD Customer Service Phone: 1-800-556-6616 

August is National Immunization Awareness Month 

Healthy Families Oregon is proud to support this initiative! 

This month is all about the importance of getting vaccinated and protecting ourselves and our communities from serious diseases. Our HFO program providers are committed to helping families access the immunizations they need to stay healthy and thrive. Together, let’s celebrate and promote immunizations to ensure a healthier future for all!  

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Passed HB 3558: Office of Child Care Name Change 

We are happy to inform you that the Office of Child Care (OCC) will now be named Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD).  

By incorporating the word “Licensing” into the Division’s name, we are excited to be able to highlight how the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) is responsible for ensuring the safety of children—through the licensing and regulatory oversight of child care facilities. 

In addition, the Child Care Licensing Division now has a new email address. The customer service phone number will remain the same: 

• New CCLD Email: CCLD.Customerservice@delc.oregon.gov 
• CCLD Customer Service Phone: 1-800-556-6616 

What does the CCLD name change mean for Providers? 

In the coming weeks, you will notice changes to licensing documents and our website as the new name change is implemented. These updates are a reflection of our rebranding and should not cause any disruption to your licensing process. 

We want to reassure you that despite the name change, the role and functions of CCLD remain unchanged, and there is no action required from child care providers regarding this change. 

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Please join us to learn about how you can help enhance equity and inclusion in early learning and care programs. 

The Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program (ECSEPP) is accepting applications for Regional Service Providers to support young children’s social emotional well-being and prevent suspension and expulsion.  

The goal of the ECSEPP is to prevent and reduce disparities in the use of suspension, expulsion, and other exclusionary practices. Regional Service Providers will support the social-emotional well-being of young children by implementing culturally responsive, equity-centered Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC).  

Questions? Contact Laura Sprehe (laura.sprehe@delc.oregon.gov).   

Applications are due on September 15, 2023 

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REMINDER: Join the new Advisory Committee on Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program (ECSEPP)

The Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC), with support from Trauma Informed Oregon invites you to help inform the design of the Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program. By joining this advisory committee, you will have the chance to help ensure services are culturally responsive, tailored to the needs of individual communities, and effective in preventing suspension and expulsion. 

Members of this team will include: 

• Caregivers (parents, foster parents, family members, and other responsible adults caring for children under five years of age) 
• Early Care and Education  providers of all types 
• Coaches, consultants, trainers and other professionals who provide content expertise, coordination of services, and other supports to ECE providers 
• Specialized Service staff in fields like early intervention and early childhood special education 
• Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultants (IECMHC) 
• Community members connected personally or professionally with Oregon’s early childhood community 

We encourage people who speak Spanish, English, and/or are bilingual in English and another language to apply.  

APPLICATIONS ARE DUE BY: 5 p.m., Tuesday, August 8 

Please, click on your preferred language below to review the committee expectations before you apply:
English  |  Español  |  Русский  |  中文  |  Tiếng Việt 
 
Please, click on your preferred language below to apply in that language: 
English  |  Español  |  Русский  | 中文  |  Tiếng Việt