ACF-118 Plan

STATE PLAN FOR CCDF SERVICES

FOR THE PERIOD 10/1/07 – 9/30/09

CHILD CARE AND DEVELOPMENT FUND PLAN

FOR

FFY 2008-2009

This Plan describes the CCDF program to be conducted by the State for the period 10/1/07 – 9/30/09. As provided for in the applicable statutes and regulations, the Lead Agency has the flexibility to modify this program at any time, including changing the options selected or described herein.

The official text of the applicable laws and regulations govern, and the Lead Agency acknowledges its responsibility to adhere to them regardless of the fact that, for purposes of simplicity and clarity, the specific provisions printed herein are sometimes paraphrases of, or excerpts and incomplete quotations from, the full text.

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 165 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and reviewing the collection of information.

An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number.

(Form ACF 118 Approved OMB Number: 0970-0114 expires [DATE])

TABLE OF CONTENTS

AMENDMENTS LOG

PART 1 ADMINISTRATION

1.1 Lead Agency Information

1.2 State Child Care (CCDF) Contact Information

1.3 Estimated Funding

1.4 Estimated Administration Cost

1.5 Administration of the Program

1.6 Use of Private Donated Funds

1.7 Use of State Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) Expenditures for CCDF-Eligible Children

1.8 Improper Payments

PART 2 DEVELOPING THE CHILD CARE PROGRAM

2.1 Consultation and Coordination

2.2 Public Hearing Process

2.3 Public-Private Partnerships

PART 3 CHILD CARE SERVICES OFFERED

3.1 Description of Child Care Services

3.2 Payment Rates for the Provision of Child Care

3.3 Eligibility Criteria for Child Care

3.4 Priorities for Serving Children and Families

3.5 Sliding Fee Scale for Child Care Services

PART 4 PARENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

4.1 Application Process / Parental Choice

4.2 Records of Parental Complaints

4.3 Unlimited Access to Children in Child Care Settings

4.4 Criteria or Definitions Applied by TANF Agency to Determine Inability to Obtain Child Care

PART 5 ACTIVITIES & SERVICES TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY AND AVAILABILITY OF CHILD CARE

5.1 Quality Earmarks and Set-Asides

5.2 Good Start, Grow Smart Planning and Development

PART 6 HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR PROVIDERS

(50 States & District of Columbia only)

6.1 Health and Safety Requirements for Center-based Providers

6.2 Health and Safety Requirements for Group Home Providers

6.3 Health and Safety Requirements for Family Child Care Providers

6.4 Health and Safety Requirements for In-Home Providers

6.5 Exemptions to Health and Safety Requirements

6.6 Enforcement of Health and Safety Requirements

6.7 Exemptions from Immunization Requirements

PART 7 HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS IN THE TERRITORIES

7.1 Health and Safety Requirements for Center-based Providers in the Territories

7.2 Health and Safety Requirements for Group Home Providers in the Territories

7.3 Health and Safety Requirements for Family Child Care Providers in the Territories

7.4 Health and Safety Requirements for In-Home Providers in the Territories

7.5 Exemptions to Territorial Health and Safety Requirements

7.6 Enforcement of Territorial Health and Safety Requirements

7.7 Exemptions from Territorial Immunization Requirements

APPENDIX 1 -- PROGRAM ASSURANCES AND CERTIFICATIONS

APPENDIX 2 -- ELIGIBILITY AND PRIORITY TERMINOLOGY

APPENDIX 3 -- ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATIONS (on file - not included here)

REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS

AMENDMENTS LOG

Child Care and Development Services Plan for

For the period: 10/1/07 – 9/30/09

Section Amended	Effective/ Proposed Effective Date	Date Submitted to ACF	Date Approved by ACF

Instructions:

1) Lead Agency completes the first 3 columns and sends a photocopy of this Log (showing the latest amendment sent to ACF) and the amended section(s) to the ACF Regional contact. A copy of the Log, showing the latest amendment pending in ACF, is retained in the Lead Agency's Plan.

2) ACF completes column 4 and returns a photocopy of the Log to the grantee.

3) The Lead Agency replaces this page in the Plan with the copy of the Log received from ACF showing the approval date.

Note: This process depends on repeated subsequent use of the same Log page over the life of the Plan. At any time the Log should reflect all amendments, both approved and pending in ACF. The Lead Agency is advised to retain those "old" plan pages that are superseded by amendments in a separate appendix to its Plan.

PART 1

ADMINISTRATION

The agency shown below has been designated by the Chief Executive Officer of the State (or Territory), to represent the State (or Territory) as the Lead Agency. The Lead Agency agrees to administer the program in accordance with applicable Federal laws and regulations and the provisions of this Plan, including the assurances and certifications appended hereto. (658D, 658E)

1.1 Lead Agency Information (as designated by State chief executive officer)

Name of Lead Agency:

Address of Lead Agency:

Name and Title of the Lead Agency’s Chief Executive Officer:

Phone Number:
Fax Number:

E-Mail Address:

Web Address for Lead Agency (if any):

1.2 State Child Care (CCDF) Contact Information (day-to-day contact)

Name of the State Child Care Contact (CCDF):

Title of State Child Care Contact:

Address:

Phone Number:

Fax Number:

E-Mail Address:

Phone Number for child care subsidy program information (for the public) (if any):

Web Address for child care subsidy program information (for the public) (if any):

1.3 Estimated Funding

The Lead Agency estimates that the following amounts will be available for child care services and related activities during the 1-year period: October 1, 2007 through September 30, 2008. (§98.13(a))

CCDF: $

Federal TANF Transfer to CCDF: $

Direct Federal TANF Spending on Child Care: $

State CCDF Maintenance of Effort Funds: $

State Matching Funds: $

Total Funds Available: $

1.4 Estimated Administration Cost

The Lead Agency estimates that the following amount (and percentage) of Federal CCDF and State Matching Funds will be used to administer the program (not to exceed 5 percent): $ ( %). (658E(c) (3), §§98.13(a), 98.52)

1.5 Administration of the Program

Does the Lead Agency directly administer and implement all services, programs and activities funded under the CCDF Act, including those described in Part 5.1 – Activities & Services to Improve the Quality and Availability of Child Care, Quality Earmarks and Set-Aside?

Yes.

No. If no, use the table below to identify the name and type of agency that delivers services and activities. (If the Lead Agency performs the task, mark “n/a” in the box under “Agency.” If more than one agency performs the task, identify all agencies in the box under “Agency,” and indicate in the box to the right whether each is a non-government entity.)

Service/Activity	Agency	Non-Government Entity (see Guidance for definition)
Determines individual eligibility:
TANF families		Yes No
Non-TANF families		Yes No
Assists parents in locating care		Yes No
Makes the provider payment		Yes No
Quality activities		Yes No
Other:		Yes No

If the Lead Agency uses outside agencies to deliver services and activities, describe how the Lead Agency maintains overall control.

1.6 Use of Private Donated Funds

Will the Lead Agency use private funds to meet a part of the matching requirement of the CCDF pursuant to §98.53(e)(2)?

Yes. If yes, are those funds:

Donated directly to the State?

Donated to a separate entity or entities designated to receive private donated funds?

How many entities are designated to receive private donated funds? _____

Provide information below for each entity:

Name:

Address:

Contact:

Type:

No.

1.7 Use of State Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) Expenditures for CCDF-Eligible Children

1.7.1 During this plan period, will State expenditures for Pre­-K programs be used to meet any of the CCDF maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement?

Yes, and:

( ) The State assures that its level of effort in full day/full year child care services has not been reduced, pursuant to §98.53(h)(1).

(__ %) Estimated percentage of the MOE requirement that will be met with pre-K expenditures.(Not to exceed 20%.)

If the State uses Pre-K expenditures to meet more than 10% of the MOE requirement, the following describes how the State will coordinate its Pre-K and child care services to expand the availability of child care (§98.53(h)(4)):

No.

1.7.2 During this plan period, will State expenditures for Pre-K programs be used to meet any of the CCDF Matching Fund requirement? (§98.53(h))

Yes, and

(__%) Estimated percentage of the Matching Fund requirement that will be met with pre-K expenditures. (Not to exceed 30%.)

If the State uses Pre-K expenditures to meet more than 10% of the Matching Fund requirement, the following describes how the State will coordinate its Pre-K and child care services to expand the availability of child care (§98.53(h)(4)):

No.

1.7.3 If the State answered yes to 1.7.1 or 1.7.2, the following describes State efforts to

ensure that pre-K programs meet the needs of working parents: (§98.53(h)(2))

1.8 Improper Payments

1.8.1 How does the Lead Agency define improper payments?

1.8.2 Has your State implemented strategies to prevent, measure, identify, reduce and/or collect improper payments? (§98.60(i), §98.65, §98.67)

Yes, and these strategies are:

No. If no, are there plans underway to determine and implement such strategies?

Yes, and these planned strategies are:

No.

PART 2

DEVELOPING THE CHILD CARE PROGRAM

2.1 Consultation and Coordination

2.1.1 Lead Agencies are required to consult with appropriate agencies and coordinate with other Federal, State, local, tribal (if applicable) and private agencies providing child care and early childhood development services (§98.12, §98.14(a),(b), §98.16(d)). Indicate the entities with which the Lead Agency has consulted or coordinated (as defined below), by checking the appropriate box(es) in the following table.

Consultation involves the meeting with or otherwise obtaining input from an appropriate agency in the development of the State Plan. At a minimum, Lead Agencies must consult with representatives of general purpose local governments (noted by the asterisk in the chart below).

Coordination involves the coordination of child care and early childhood development service delivery, including efforts to coordinate across multiple entities, both public and private (for instance, in connection with a State Early Childhood Comprehensive System (SECCS) grant or infant-toddler initiative). At a minimum, Lead Agencies must coordinate with (1) other Federal, State, local, Tribal (if applicable), and/or private agencies responsible for providing child care and early childhood development services, (2) public health (including the agency responsible for immunizations and programs that promote children’s emotional and mental health), (3) employment services / workforce development, (4) public education, (5) Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and (6) any Indian Tribes in the State receiving CCDF funds (noted by the asterisks in the chart below).

	Consultation in Development of the Plan	Coordination with Service Delivery
Other Federal, State, local, Tribal (if applicable), and private agencies providing child care and early childhood development services.		*
Public health		*
Employment services / workforce development		*
Public education		*
TANF		*
Indian Tribes/Tribal Organizations, when such entities exist within the boundaries of the State
Representatives of local government	*
State/Tribal agency (agencies) responsible for
State pre-kindergarten programs
Head Start programs
Programs that promote inclusion for children with special needs
Emergency preparednessº
Other (See guidance):

* Required.

For each box checked above, (a) identify the agency providing the service and (b) describe the consultation and coordination efforts. Descriptions must be provided for any consultation or coordination required by statute or regulation.

º If you have prepared an emergency preparedness plan related to your child care and early childhood development services, attach it as Attachment 2.1.1.

2.1.2 State Plan for Early Childhood Program Coordination. Good Start, Grow Smart encourages States to develop a plan for coordination across early childhood programs. Indicate which of the following best describes the current status of the State's efforts in this area. Note: Check only ONE.

Planning. Indicate whether steps are under way to develop a plan. If so, describe the time frames for completion and/or implementation, the steps anticipated, and how the plan is expected to support early language, literacy, pre-reading and early math concepts.

Developing. A plan is being drafted.

The draft is included as Attachment 2.1.2.

Developed. A plan has been written but has not yet been implemented. The plan is included as Attachment 2.1.2.

Implementing. A plan has been written and is now in the process of being implemented. The plan is included as Attachment 2.1.2.

Other (describe):

Describe the progress made by the State planning for coordination across early childhood programs since the date of submission of the 2006-2007 State Plan.

Indicate whether there is an entity that is responsible for ensuring that such coordination occurs. Indicate the four or more early childhood programs and/or funding streams that are coordinated and describe the nature of the coordination.

Describe the results or expected results of this coordination. Discuss how these results relate to the development and implementation of the State's early learning guidelines, plans for professional development, and outcomes for children.

Describe how the State's plan supports or will support continued coordination among the programs. Are changes anticipated in the plan?

2.2 Public Hearing Process

Describe the Statewide public hearing process held to provide the public an opportunity to comment on the provision of child care services under this Plan. (658D(b)(1)(C), §98.14(c)) At a minimum, the description must provide:

Date(s) of statewide notice of public hearing:

Manner of notifying the public about the statewide hearing:

Date(s) of public hearing(s):

Hearing site(s):

How the content of the plan was made available to the public in advance of the public hearing(s):

A brief summary of the public comments from this process is included as Attachment 2.2.

2.3 Public-Private Partnerships

Does the Lead Agency conduct or plan to conduct activities to encourage public-private partnerships that promote private-sector involvement in meeting child care needs?

Yes. If yes, describe these activities or planned activities, including the results or expected results.

No.

PART 3

CHILD CARE SERVICES OFFERED

3.1 Description of Child Care Services

1. Certificate Payment System

Describe the overall child care certificate process, including, at a minimum:

(1) a description of the form of the certificate (98.16(k));

(2) a description of how the certificate program permits parents to choose from a variety of child care settings by explaining how a parent moves from receipt of the certificate to choice of the provider; (658E(c)(2)(A)(iii), 658P(2), 98.2, 98.30(c)(4) & (e)(1) & (2)) and

(3) if the Lead Agency is also providing child care services through grants and contracts, estimate the proportion of §98.50 services available through certificates versus grants/contracts, and explain how it ensures that parents offered child care services are given the option of receiving a child care certificate. (98.30(a) & (b)) This may be expressed in terms of dollars, number of slots, or percentages of services.

Attach a copy of your eligibility worker’s manual, policy handbook, or other printed guidelines for administering the child care subsidy program as Attachment 3.1.1. If these materials are available on the web, the State may provide the appropriate Web site address in lieu of attaching hard copies to the Plan.

Note: Eligibility worker’s manuals, policy handbooks, or other printed guidelines for administering a child care subsidy program will be used for reference purposes only. Documents provided by Lead Agencies pursuant to this section will not be uniformly or comprehensively reviewed and will not be considered part of the Plan. All information required to be part of the Plan must continue to be set forth in the Plan.

3.1.2 In addition to offering certificates, does the Lead Agency also have grants or contracts for child care slots?

Yes, and the following describes the types of child care services, the process for accessing grants or contracts, and the range of providers that will be available through grants or contracts: (658A(b)(1), 658P(4), §§98.16(g)(1), 98.30(a)(1) & (b))

No.

3. The Lead Agency must allow for in-home care but may limit its use. Does the Lead Agency limit the use of in-home care in any way?

Yes, and the limits and the reasons for those limits are: (§§98.16(g)(2), 98.30(e)(1)(iv))

No.

3. Are child care services provided through certificates, grants and/or contracts offered throughout the State? (658E(a), §98.16(g)(3))

Yes.

No, and the following are the localities (political subdivisions) and the services that are not offered:

3.2 Payment Rates for the Provision of Child Care

The statute at 658E(c)(4) and the regulations at §98.43(b)(1) require the Lead Agency to establish payment rates for child care services that ensure eligible children equal access to comparable care.

These rates are provided as Attachment 3.2A.

The attached payment rates were or will be effective as of _________________.

Provide a summary of the facts relied on by the State to determine that the attached rates are sufficient to ensure equal access to comparable child care services provided to children whose parents are not eligible to receive child care assistance under the CCDF and other governmental programs. Include, at a minimum:

• The month and year when the local market rate survey(s) was completed:___________________ . (§98.43(b)(2))

• A copy of the Market Rate Survey instrument and a summary of the results of the survey are provided as Attachment 3.2B. At a minimum, this summary should include a description of the sample population, data source, the type of methodology used, response rate, description of analyses, and key findings (See Guidance for additional information.)

• Does the Lead Agency use its current Market Rate Survey (a survey completed within the allowable time period –10/1/05 -9/30/07) to set payment rates?

Yes.

No.

At what percentile of the current Market Rate Survey is the State rate ceiling set? If you do not use your current Market Rate Survey to set your rate ceilings or your percentile varies across categories of care (e.g., type of setting, region, age of children), describe and provide the range of variation in relation to your current survey. (See Guidance for additional information.)

• How the payment rates are adequate to ensure equal access to the full range of providers based on the results of the above noted local market rate survey (i.e., describe the relationship between the attached payment rates and the market rates observed in the survey): (§98.43(b))

• Does the Lead Agency consider any additional facts to determine that its payment rates ensure equal access? (§98.43(d))

Yes. If, yes, describe.

No.

• Does the State have a tiered reimbursement system (higher rates for child care centers and family child care homes that achieve one or more levels of quality beyond basic licensing requirements)?

Yes. If yes, describe:

No.

3.3 Eligibility Criteria for Child Care

3.3.1 Age Eligibility

Does the Lead Agency allow CCDF-funded child care for children above age 13 but below age 19 who are physically and/or mentally incapable of self-care? (Physical and mental incapacity must then be defined in Appendix 2.) (658E(c)(3)(B), 658P(3), §98.20(a)(1)(ii))

Yes, and the upper age is .

No.

Does the Lead Agency allow CCDF-funded child care for children above age 13 but below age 19 who are under court supervision? (658P(3), 658E(c)(3)(B), §98.20(a)(1)(ii))

Yes, and the upper age is .

No.

3.3.2 Income Eligibility

Complete columns (a) and (b) in the matrix below. Complete Columns (c) and (d) ONLY IF the Lead Agency is using income eligibility limits lower than 85% of the SMI.

			IF APPLICABLE
Family Size	(a) 100% of State Median Income (SMI) ($/month)	(b) 85% of State Median Income (SMI) ($/month) [Multiply (a) by 0.85]	Income Level, lower than 85% SMI, if used to limit eligibility
			(c) $/month	(d) % of SMI [Divide (c) by (a), multiply by 100]
1
2
3
4
5

If the Lead Agency does not use the SMI from the most current year, indicate the year used:

If applicable, indicate the date on which the eligibility limits detailed in column (c) became or will become effective:

How does the Lead Agency define “income” for the purposes of eligibility? Describe and/or include information as Attachment 3.3.2. (§§98.16(g)(5), 98.20(b))

• Is any income deducted or excluded from total family income (for instance, work or medical expenses; child support paid to, or received from, other households; Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments)?

Yes. If yes, describe what type of income is deducted or excluded from total family income.

No.

• Is the income of all family members included?

Yes.

No. If no, describe whose income is excluded for purposes of eligibility determination.

3.3.3 Eligibility Based Upon Receiving or Needing to Receive Protective Services

Does the State choose to provide child care to children in protective services, as defined in Appendix 2? (§§98.16(f)(7), 98.20(a)(3)(ii)(A) & (B))

Yes.

No.

Has the Lead Agency elected to waive, on a case-by-case basis, the fee and income eligibility requirements for cases in which children receive, or need to receive, protective services, as defined in Appendix 2? (658E(c)(3)(B), 658P(3)(C)(ii), §98.20(a)(3)(ii)(A))

Yes.

No.

Not applicable. CCDF-funded child care is not provided in cases in which children receive, or need to receive, protective services.

Does the State choose to provide CCDF-funded child care to children in foster care whose foster care parents are not working, or who are not in education/training activities? (§§98.20(a)(3)(ii), 98.16(f)(7))

Yes. (NOTE: This means that for CCDF purposes the State considers these children to be in protective services.)

No.

3.3.4 Additional Eligibility Conditions

Has the Lead Agency established additional eligibility conditions? (658E(c)(3)(B), §98.16(g)(5), §98.20(b))

Yes, and the additional eligibility conditions are: (Terms must be defined in Appendix 2)

No.

3.4 Priorities for Serving Children and Families

1. Complete the table below regarding eligibility conditions and priority rules. For columns (a) through (d), check box if reply is “Yes”. Leave blank if “No”. Complete column (e) if you check column (d).

Eligibility Category	(a) Guarantee subsidy eligibility	(b) Give priority over other CCDF-eligible families	(c) Same priority as other CCDF-eligible families	(d) Is there a time limit on guarantee or priority?	(e) How long is time limit?
Children with special needs
Children in families with very low incomes
Families receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Families transitioning from TANF
Families at risk of becoming dependent on TANF

2. Describe how the State prioritizes service for the following CCDF-eligible children: (a) children with special needs and (b) children in families with very low incomes. Terms must be defined in Appendix 2. (658E(c)(3)(B))

3. Describe how CCDF funds will be used to meet the needs of: (a) families receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), (b) those attempting to transition off TANF through work activities, and (c) those at risk of becoming dependent on TANF. (658E(c)(2)(H), Section 418(b)(2) of the Social Security Act, §§98.50(e), 98.16(g)(4))

4. Has the Lead Agency established additional priority rules that are not reflected in the table completed for Section 3.4.1? (658E(c)(3)(B), §98.16(g)(5), §98.20(b))

Yes, and the additional priority rules are: (Terms must be defined in Appendix 2)

No.

5. Does the Lead Agency serve all eligible families that apply?

Yes.

No.

6. Does the Lead Agency maintain a waiting list?

Yes. If yes, for what populations? Is the waiting list maintained at the State level? Are certain populations given priority for services, and if so, which populations? What methods are employed to keep the list current?

No.

3.5 Sliding Fee Scale for Child Care Services

3.5.1 A sliding fee scale, which is used to determine each family's contribution to the cost of child care, must vary based on income and the size of the family. A copy of this sliding fee scale for child care services and an explanation of how it works is provided as Attachment 3.5.1.

The attached fee scale was or will be effective as of _________________.

Will the Lead Agency use additional factors to determine each family's contribution to the cost of child care? (658E(c)(3)(B), §98.42(b))

Yes, and the following describes any additional factors that will be used:

No.

3.5.2 Is the sliding fee scale provided in the attachment in response to question 3.5.1 used in all parts of the State? (658E(c)(3)(B))

Yes.

No, and other scale(s) and their effective date(s) are provided as Attachment 3.5.2.

3. The Lead Agency may waive contributions from families whose incomes are at or below the poverty level for a family of the same size, (§98.42(c)), and the poverty level used by the Lead Agency for a family of 3 is: $_________________.

The Lead Agency must select ONE of these options:

ALL families with income at or below the poverty level for a family of the same size ARE NOT required to pay a fee.

ALL families, including those with incomes at or below the poverty level for families of the same size, ARE required to pay a fee.

SOME families with income at or below the poverty level for a family of the same size ARE NOT required to pay a fee. The following describes these families:

3.5.4 Does the State allow providers to charge parents the difference between the maximum reimbursement rate and their private pay rate?

Yes.

No.

3.5.5 The following is an explanation of how the copayments required by the Lead Agency's sliding fee scale(s) were determined to be affordable: (§98.43(b)(3))

PART 4

PARENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

4.1 Application Process / Parental Choice

4.1.1 Describe the process for a family to apply for and receive child care services (658D(b)(1)(A), 658E(c)(2)(D) & (3)(B), §§98.16(k), 98.30(a) through (e)). At minimum, the description should include:

• How parents are informed of the availability of child care services and about child care options

• Where/how applications are made

• What documentation parents must provide

• How parents who receive TANF benefits are informed about the exception to individual penalties as described in 4.4

• Length of eligibility period including variations that relate to the services provided, e.g., through collaborations with Head Start or pre-kindergarten programs

• Any steps the State has taken to reduce barriers to initial and continuing eligibility for child care subsidies

Attach a copy of your parent application for the child care subsidy program. If the application is available on the web, provide the appropriate Web site address (application must still be attached to Plan):

4.1.2 Is the application process different for families receiving TANF?

Yes. If yes, describe how the process is different:

No.

4.1.3 The following is a detailed description of how the State ensures parental choice by making sure that parents are informed about their ability to choose from among family and group home care, center-based care and in-home care including faith-based providers in each of these categories.

4. Does the State conduct activities aimed at families with limited English proficiency to promote access to child care subsidies and reduce barriers to receiving subsidies and accessing child care services?

Yes. If yes, describe these activities, including how the State overcomes language barriers with families and providers.

No.

4.2 Records of Parental Complaints

The following is a detailed description of how the State maintains a record of substantiated parental complaints and how it makes the information regarding such parental complaints available to the public on request. (658E(c)(2)(C), §98.32))

4.3 Unlimited Access to Children in Child Care Settings

The following is a detailed description of the procedures in effect in the State for affording parents unlimited access to their children whenever their children are in the care of a provider who receives CCDF funds. (658E(c)(2)(B), §98.31))

4.4 Criteria or Definitions Applied by TANF Agency to Determine Inability to Obtain Child Care

The regulations at §98.33(b) require the Lead Agency to inform parents who receive TANF benefits about the exception to the individual penalties associated with the work requirement for any single custodial parent who has a demonstrated inability to obtain needed child care for a child under 6 years of age.

In fulfilling this requirement, the following criteria or definitions are applied by the TANF agency to determine whether the parent has a demonstrated inability to obtain needed child care:

NOTE: The TANF agency, not the Child Care Lead Agency, is responsible for establishing the following criteria or definitions. These criteria or definitions are offered in this Plan as a matter of public record. The TANF agency that established these criteria or definitions is: __________________________________________.

• "appropriate child care":

• "reasonable distance":

• "unsuitability of informal child care":

• "affordable child care arrangements":

PART 5

ACTIVITIES & SERVICES TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY AND AVAILABILITY OF CHILD CARE

5.1 Quality Earmarks and Set-Asides

5.1.1 The Child Care and Development Fund provides earmarks for infant and toddler care and school-age care and resource and referral services as well as the special earmark for quality activities. The following describes the activities; identifies the entities providing the activities; describes the expected results of the activities and, if the activities have been ongoing, the actual results of the activities. For the infant and toddler earmark, the State must note in its description of the activities what is the maximum age of a child who may be served with such earmarked funds (not to exceed 36 months).

Infants and toddlers:

Resource and referral services:

School-age child care:

5.1.2 The law requires that not less than 4% of the CCDF be set aside for quality activities. (658E(c)(3)(B), 658G, §§98.13(a), 98.16(h), 98.51) The Lead Agency estimates that the following amount and percentage will be used for the quality activities (not including earmarked funds) during the 1-year period: October 1, 2007 through September 30, 2008:

$ _____________________ ( %)

5.1.3 Check each activity the Lead Agency will undertake to improve the availability and quality of child care (include activities funded through the 4% quality set-aside as well as the special earmark for quality activities). (658D(b)(1)(D), 658E(c)(3)(B), §§98.13(a), 98.16(h))

Activity	Check if undertaking/will undertake	Name and type of entity providing activity	Check if this entity is a non-governmental entity?
Comprehensive consumer education
Grants or loans to providers to assist in meeting State and local standards
Monitoring compliance with licensing and regulatory requirements
Professional development, including training, education, and technical assistance
Improving salaries and other compensation for child care providers
Activities in support of early language, literacy, pre-reading, and early math concepts development
Activities to promote inclusive child care
Healthy Child Care America and other health activities including those designed to promote the social and emotional development of children
Activities that increase parental choice
Other activities that improve the quality of child care (describe below).
Other activities that improve the availability of child care (describe below).
(§98.51(a)(1) and (2))

5.1.4 For each activity checked, describe the expected results of the activity. If you have conducted an evaluation of this activity, describe the results. If you have not conducted an evaluation, describe how you will evaluate the activities.0

5.2 Good Start, Grow Smart Planning and Development

This section of the Plan relates to the President's Good Start, Grow Smart initiative which is envisioned as a Federal-State partnership that creates linkages between CCDF, including funds set-aside for quality, and State public and private efforts to promote early learning. In this section, each Lead Agency is asked to assess its State's progress toward developing voluntary guidelines on language, literacy, pre-reading, and early math concepts and a plan for the education and training of child care providers. The third component of the President’s Good Start, Grow Smart initiative, planning for coordination across at least four early childhood programs and funding streams, was addressed in Section 2.1.2.

5.2.1 Status of Voluntary Early Learning Guidelines. Indicate which of the following best describes the current status of the State's efforts to develop, implement, or revise research-based early learning guidelines (content standards) for three to five year-olds. NOTE: Check only one box to best describe the status of your State’s three-to-five-year-old guidelines.

Planning. The State is planning for the development of early learning guidelines. Expected date of plan completion: __________

Developing. The State is in the process of developing early learning guidelines. Expected date of completion: __________

Developed. The State has approved the early learning guidelines, but has not yet developed or initiated an implementation plan. The early learning guidelines are included as Attachment 5.2.1.

Implementing. In addition to having developed early learning guidelines, the State has embarked on implementation efforts which may include dissemination, training or embedding guidelines in the professional development system. The guidelines are included as Attachment 5.2.1.

Revising. The State has previously developed early learning guidelines and is now revising those guidelines. The guidelines are included as Attachment 5.2.1.

Other (describe):

Describe the progress made by the State in developing, implementing, or revising early learning guidelines since the date of submission of the 2006-2007 State Plan.

If developed, are the guidelines aligned with K-12 content standards or other standards (e.g., Head Start Child Outcomes, State Performance Standards)?

Yes. If yes, name standards.

No.

If developed, are the guidelines aligned with early childhood curricula?

Yes. If yes, describe.

No.

Have guidelines been developed for children in the following age groups (check if guidelines have been developed):

Birth to three. Guidelines are included as Attachment 5.2.1

Birth to five. Guidelines are included as Attachment 5.2.1

Five years or older. Guidelines are included as Attachment 5.2.1

Efforts to develop early learning guidelines for children that may differ from those addressed in Good Start, Grow Smart (i.e., children birth to three or older than five) may be described here.

If any of your guidelines are available on the web, provide the appropriate Web site address (guidelines must still be attached to Plan):

5.2.2 Domains of Voluntary Early Learning Guidelines. Do the guidelines for children three-to-five-years-old address language, literacy, pre-reading, and early math concepts?

Yes.

No.

Do the guidelines for children three-to-five-years-old address domains not specifically included in Good Start, Grow Smart, such as social/emotional, cognitive, physical, health, creative arts, or other domains?

Yes. If yes, describe.

No.

3. Implementation of Voluntary Early Learning Guidelines. Indicate the strategies the State used or expects to use in implementing its early learning guidelines.

Check all that apply:

Disseminating materials to practitioners and families

Developing training curricula

Partnering with other training entities to deliver training

Aligning early learning guidelines with licensing, core competencies, and/or quality rating systems

Other. Describe:

Indicate the stakeholders that are (or expect to be) actively supporting the implementation of early learning guidelines.	Indicate the programs that mandate or require the use of early learning guidelines.
Publicly funded (or subsidized) child care	Publicly funded (or subsidized) child care
Head Start	Head Start
Education/Public pre-k	Education/Public pre-k
Early Intervention	Early Intervention
Child Care Resource and Referral	Child Care Resource and Referral
Higher Education	Higher Education
Parent Associations	Parent Associations
Other. Describe:	Other. Describe:

How are (or will) cultural, linguistic and individual variations (be) acknowledged in implementation?

How are (or will) the diversity of child care settings (be) acknowledged in implementation?

Materials developed to support implementation of the guidelines are included as Attachment 5.2.3. If these are available on the web, provide the appropriate Web site address:

3. Assessment of Voluntary Early Learning Guidelines. As applicable, describe the State's plan for:

1. Validating the content of the early learning guidelines

2. Assessing the effectiveness and/or implementation of the guidelines

3. Assessing the progress of children using measures aligned with the guidelines

4. Aligning the guidelines with accountability initiatives

Written reports of these efforts are included as Attachment 5.2.4. If these are available on the web, provide the appropriate Web site address (reports must still be attached to Plan):

5.2.5 State Plans for Professional Development. Indicate which of the following best describes the current status of the State's efforts to develop a professional development plan for early childhood providers that includes all the primary sectors: child care, Head Start, and public education. NOTE: Check ONLY ONE box to best describe the status of your State’s professional development plan.

Planning. Indicate whether steps are under way to develop a plan. If so, describe the entities involved in the planning process, time frames for completion and/or implementation, the steps anticipated, and how the plan is expected to support early language, literacy, pre-reading and early math concepts.

Developing. A plan is being drafted. The draft or planning documents are included as Attachment 5.2.5.

Developed. A plan has been written but has not yet been implemented. The plan is included as Attachment 5.2.5.

Implementing. A plan has been written and is now in the process of being implemented, or has been implemented. The plan is included as Attachment 5.2.5.

Revising. The State previously developed a professional development plan and is now revising that plan, or has revised it since submitting the 06-07 State Plan. The revisions or the revised plan are included as Attachment 5.2.5.

Other (describe):

Describe the progress made by the State in planning, developing, implementing, or revising the professional development plan since the date of submission of the 2006-2007 State Plan.

If your State has developed a plan for professional development, does the plan include (Check EITHER yes or no for each item):

	Yes	No
Specific goals or desired outcomes
A link to Early Learning Guidelines
Continuum of training and education to form a career path
Articulation from one type of training to the next
Quality assurance through approval of trainers
Quality assurance through approval of training content
A system to track practitioners’ training
Assessment or evaluation of training effectiveness
State Credentials – State for which roles (e.g. infant and toddler credential, directors’ credential, etc.)
Specialized strategies to reach family, friend and neighbor caregivers

For each Yes response, reference the page(s) in the plan and briefly describe.

For each No response, indicate any plans the Lead Agency has to incorporate these components.

Are the professional development opportunities described in the plan available:

Note: Check either yes or no for each item):

	Yes	No
Statewide
To Center-based Child Care Providers
To Group Home Providers
To Family Home Providers
To In-Home Providers
Other (describe):

Describe how the plan addresses early language, literacy, pre-reading, and early math concepts development.

Are program or provider-level incentives offered to encourage provider training and education?

Yes. If yes, describe, including any connections between the incentives and training relating to early language, literacy, pre-reading and early math concepts.

No. If no, describe any plans to offer incentives to encourage provider training and education, including any connections between the incentives and training relating to early language, literacy, pre-reading and early math concepts?

As applicable, does the State assess the effectiveness of its professional development plan, including the achievement of any specified goals or desired outcomes?

Yes. If yes, describe how the professional development plan’s effectiveness/goal is assessed.

No. If no, describe any plans to include assessments of the professional development plan’s effectiveness/goal achievement.

Does the State assess the effectiveness of specific professional development initiatives or components?

Yes. If yes, describe how specific professional development initiatives or components’ effectiveness is assessed.

No. If no, describe any plans to include assessments of specific professional development initiatives or components’ effectiveness.

As applicable, does (or will) the State use assessment to help shape or revise its professional development plan?

Yes. If yes, describe how assessment informs the professional development plan.

No. If no, describe any plans to include assessment to inform the professional development plan.

PART 6

HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR PROVIDERS

(Only the 50 States and the District of Columbia complete Part 6.)

The National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care (NRCHSCC) of DHHS's Maternal and Child Health Bureau supports a comprehensive, current, on-line listing of the licensing and regulatory requirements for child care in the 50 States and the District of Columbia. In lieu of requiring a State Lead Agency to provide information that is already publicly available, ACF accepts this compilation as accurately reflecting the States' licensing requirements. The listing, which is maintained by the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center School of Nursing, is available on the World Wide Web at: http://nrc.uchsc.edu/.

6.1 Health and Safety Requirements for Center-Based Providers (658E(c)(2)(F), §§98.41, §98.16(j))

6.1.1 Are all center-based providers paid with CCDF funds subject to licensing under State law that is indicated in the NRCHSCC's compilation?

Yes. Answer 6.1.2, skip 6.1.3, and go to 6.2.

No. If no, describe which center-based providers are exempt from licensing under State law and answer 6.1.2 and 6.1.3.

6.1.2 Have center licensing requirements as they relate to staff-child ratios, group size, or staff training been modified since approval of the last State Plan? (§98.41(a)(2)&(3))

Yes. If yes, describe the changes.

No.

6.1.3 For center-based care that is NOT licensed, and therefore not reflected in NRCHSCC's compilation, the following health and safety requirements apply to child care services provided under the CCDF for:

• The prevention and control of infectious disease (including age-appropriate immunizations)

• Building and physical premises safety

• Health and safety training

6.2 Health and Safety Requirements for Group Home Providers (658E(c)(2)(F), §§98.41, 98.16(j))

6.2.1 Are all group home providers paid with CCDF funds subject to licensing under State law that is indicated in the NRCHSCC's compilation? If:

Yes. Answer 6.2.2, skip 6.2.3, and go to 6.3.

No. If no, describe which group home providers are exempt from licensing under State law and answer 6.2.2 and 6.2.3.

6.2.2 Have group home licensing requirements that relate to staff-child ratios, group size, or staff training been modified since the approval of the last State Plan? (§98.41(a)(2) & (3))

Yes. If yes, describe the changes.

No.

6.2.3 For group home care that is NOT licensed, and therefore not reflected in NRCHSCC's compilation, the following health and safety requirements apply to child care services provided under the CCDF for:

• The prevention and control of infectious disease (including age-appropriate immunizations)

• Building and physical premises safety

• Health and safety training

6.3 Health and Safety Requirements for Family Providers (658E(c)(2)(F), §§98.41, 98.16(j))

6.3.1 Are all family child care providers paid with CCDF funds subject to licensing under State law that is indicated in the NRCHSCC's compilation? If:

Yes. Answer 6.3.2, skip 6.3.3, and go to 6.4.

No. If no, describe which family child care providers are exempt from licensing under State law and answer 6.3.2 and 6.3.3.

6.3.2 Have family child care provider requirements that relate to staff-child ratios, group size, or staff training been modified since the approval of the last State Plan? (§98.41(a)(2) & (3))

Yes. If yes, describe the changes.

No.

6.3.3 For family care that is NOT licensed, and therefore not reflected in NRCHSCC's compilation, the following health and safety requirements apply to child care services provided under the CCDF for:

• The prevention and control of infectious disease (including age-appropriate immunizations)

• Building and physical premises safety

• Health and safety training

6.4 Health and Safety Requirements for In-Home Providers (658E(c)(2)(F), §§98.41, 98.16(j))

1. Are all in-home child care providers paid with CCDF funds subject to licensing under the State law reflected in the NRCHSCC's compilation referenced above?

Yes. Answer 6.4.2, skip 6.4.3, and go to 6.5.

No. If no, describe which in-home child care providers are exempt from licensing under State law and answer 6.4.2 and 6.4.3.

6.4.2 Have in-home health and safety requirements that relate to staff-child ratios, group size, or training been modified since the approval of the last State Plan? (§98.41(a)(2) & (3))

Yes. If yes, describe the changes.

No.

6.4.3 For in-home care that is NOT licensed, and therefore not reflected in NRCHSCC's compilation, the following health and safety requirements apply to child care services provided under the CCDF for:

• The prevention and control of infectious disease (including age-appropriate immunizations)

• Building and physical premises safety

• Health and safety training

6.5 Exemptions to Health and Safety Requirements

At Lead Agency option, the following relatives: grandparents, great grandparents, aunts, uncles, or siblings (who live in a separate residence from the child in care) may be exempted from health and safety requirements. (658P(4)(B), §98.41(a)(1)(ii)(A)) Indicate the Lead Agency's policy regarding these relative providers:

All relative providers are subject to the same requirements as described in sections 6.1 - 6.4 above, as appropriate; there are no exemptions for relatives or different requirements for them.

All relative providers are exempt from all health and safety requirements.

Some or all relative providers are subject to different health and safety requirements from those described in sections 6.1 - 6.4. The following describes those requirements and identifies the relatives they apply to:

6.6 Enforcement of Health and Safety Requirements

Each Lead Agency is required to certify that procedures are in effect to ensure that child care providers of services for which assistance is provided comply with all applicable health and safety requirements. (658E(c)(2)(E), §§98.40(a)(2), 98.41(d)) The following is a description of how health and safety requirements are effectively enforced:

• Are child care providers subject to routine unannounced visits (i.e., not specifically for the purpose of complaint investigation or issuance/renewal of a license)?

Yes. If yes, indicate which providers are subject to routine unannounced visits and the frequency of those visits:

No.

• Are child care providers subject to background checks?

Yes. If yes, indicate which types of providers are subject to background checks and when such checks are conducted:

No.

• Does the State require that child care providers report serious injuries that occur while a child is in care? ( Serious injuries are defined as injuries requiring medical treatment by a doctor, nurse, dentist, or other medical professional.)

Yes. If yes, describe the State’s reporting requirements and how such injuries are tracked (if applicable):

No.

• Other methods used to ensure that health and safety requirements are effectively enforced:

6.7 Exemptions from Immunization Requirements

The State assures that children receiving services under the CCDF are age-appropriately immunized, and that the health and safety provisions regarding immunizations incorporate (by reference or otherwise) the latest recommendations for childhood immunizations of the State public health agency. (§98.41(a)(1))

The State exempts the following children from immunization (check all that apply):

Children who are cared for by relatives (defined as grandparents, great grandparents, siblings (if living in a separate residence), aunts and uncles).

Children who receive care in their own homes.

Children whose parents object to immunization on religious grounds.

Children whose medical condition contraindicates immunization.

PART 7

HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS IN THE TERRITORIES

(Only the Territories complete Part 7)

7.1 Health and Safety Requirements for Center-Based Providers in the Territories (658E(c)(2)(F), §98.41(a), §98.16(j))

For all center-based care, the following health and safety requirements apply to child care services provided under the CCDF for:

• The prevention and control of infectious disease (including age-appropriate immunizations)

• Building and physical premises safety

• Health and safety training

7.2 Health and Safety Requirements for Group Home Providers in the Territories (658E(c)(2)(F), §98.41(a), §98.16(j))

For all group home care, the following health and safety requirements apply to child care services provided under the CCDF for:

• The prevention and control of infectious disease (including age-appropriate immunizations)

• Building and physical premises safety

• Health and safety training

7.3 Health and Safety Requirements for Family Providers in the Territories (658E(c)(2)(F), §98.41(a), §98.16(j))

For all family child care, the following health and safety requirements apply to child care services provided under the CCDF for:

• The prevention and control of infectious disease (including age-appropriate immunizations)

• Building and physical premises safety

• Health and safety training

7.4 Health and Safety Requirements for In-Home Providers in the Territories (658E(c)(2)(F), §98.41(a), §98.16(j))

For all in-home care, the following health and safety requirements apply to child care services provided under the CCDF for:

• The prevention and control of infectious disease (including age-appropriate immunizations)

• Building and physical premises safety

• Health and safety training

7.5 Exemptions to Territorial Health and Safety Requirements

At Lead Agency option, the following relatives may be exempted from health and safety requirements: grandparents, great grandparents, aunts, uncles, or siblings (who live in a separate residence from the child in care). (658P(4)(B), §98.41(a)(1)(ii)(A)). Indicate the Lead Agency's policy regarding these relative providers:

All relative providers are subject to the same requirements as described in sections 7.1 - 7.4 above, as appropriate; there are no exemptions for relatives or different requirements for them.

All relative providers are exempt from all health and safety requirements.

Some or all relative providers are subject to different health and safety requirements from those described in sections 7.1 - 7.4 and the following describes those different requirements and the relatives they apply to:

7.6 Enforcement of Territorial Health and Safety Requirements

Each Lead Agency is required to certify that procedures are in effect to ensure that child care providers of services for which assistance is provided comply with all applicable health and safety requirements. (658E(c)(2)(E), §§98.40(a)(2), 98.41(d)) The following is a description of how Territorial health and safety requirements are effectively enforced:

Are child care providers subject to routine unannounced visits (i.e., not specifically for the purpose of complaint investigation or issuance/renewal of a license)?

Yes. If yes, indicate which providers are subject to routine unannounced visits and the frequency of those visits:

No.

Are child care providers subject to background checks?

Yes. If yes, indicate which types of providers are subject to background checks and when such checks are conducted:

No.

Does the Territory require that child care providers report serious injuries that occur while a child is in care? ( Serious injuries are defined as injuries requiring medical treatment by a doctor, nurse, dentist, or other medical professional.)

Yes. If yes, describe the Territory’s reporting requirements and how such injuries are tracked (if applicable):

No.

Other methods used to ensure that health and safety requirements are effectively enforced:

7.7 Exemptions from Territorial Immunization Requirements

The Territory assures that children receiving services under the CCDF are age-appropriately immunized, and that the health and safety provisions regarding immunizations incorporate (by reference or otherwise) the latest recommendations for childhood immunizations of the Territorial public health agency. (§98.41(a)(1))

The Territory exempts the following children from immunization (check all that apply):

Children who are cared for by relatives (defined as grandparents, great grandparents, siblings (if living in a separate residence), aunts and uncles).

Children who receive care in their own homes.

Children whose parents object to immunization on religious grounds.

Children whose medical condition contraindicates immunization.

APPENDIX 1

PROGRAM ASSURANCES AND CERTIFICATIONS

The Lead Agency, named in Part 1 of this Plan, assures that:

(1) upon approval, it will have in effect a program that complies with the provisions of the Plan printed herein, and is administered in accordance with the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 as amended, Section 418 of the Social Security Act, and all other applicable Federal laws and regulations. (658D(b), 658E(a))

(2) the parent(s) of each eligible child within the State who receives or is offered child care services for which financial assistance is provided is given the option either to enroll such child with a child care provider that has a grant or contract for the provision of the service; or to receive a child care certificate. (658E(c)(2)(A)(i))

(3) in cases in which the parent(s) elects to enroll the child with a provider that has a grant or contract with the Lead Agency, the child will be enrolled with the eligible provider selected by the parent to the maximum extent practicable. (658E(c)(2)(A)(ii))

(4) the child care certificate offered to parents shall be of a value commensurate with the subsidy value of child care services provided under a grant or contract. (658E(c)(2)(A)(iii))

5. with respect to State and local regulatory requirements, health and safety requirements, payment rates, and registration requirements, State or local rules, procedures or other requirements promulgated for the purpose of the Child Care and Development Fund will not significantly restrict parental choice among categories of care or types of providers. (658E(c)(2)(A), §98.15(p), §98.30(g), §98.40(b)(2), §98.41(b), §98.43(c), §98.45(d))

5. that children receiving services under the CCDF are age-appropriately immunized, and that the health and safety provisions regarding immunizations incorporate (by reference or otherwise) the latest recommendation for childhood immunizations of the State public health agency. (§98.41(a)(1))

5. that CCDF Discretionary funds are used to supplement, not supplant, State general revenue funds for child care assistance for low-income families. (P.L. 109-149)

The Lead Agency also certifies that:

(1) it has procedures in place to ensure that providers of child care services for which assistance is provided under the Child Care and Development Fund afford parents unlimited access to their children and to the providers caring for their children during the normal hours of operations and whenever such children are in the care of such providers. (658E(c)(2)(B))

(2) it maintains a record of substantiated parental complaints and makes information regarding such complaints available to the public on request. (658E(c)(2)(C))

(3) it will collect and disseminate to parents of eligible children and the general public, consumer education information that will promote informed child care choices. (658E(c)(2)(D))

(4) it has in effect licensing requirements applicable to child care services provided in the State. (658E(c)(2)(E))

5. there are in effect within the State (or other area served by the Lead Agency), under State or local law, requirements designed to protect the health and safety of children; these requirements are applicable to child care providers that provide services for which assistance is made available under the Child Care and Development Fund. (658E(c)(2)(E))

5. procedures are in effect to ensure that child care providers of services for which assistance is provided under the Child Care and Development Fund comply with all applicable State or local health and safety requirements. (658E(c)(2)(G))

5. payment rates under the Child Care and Development Fund for the provision of child care services are sufficient to ensure equal access for eligible children to comparable child care services in the State or sub-State area that are provided to children whose parents are not eligible to receive assistance under this program or under any other Federal or State child care assistance programs. (658E(c)(4)(A))

APPENDIX 2

ELIGIBILITY AND PRIORITY TERMINOLOGY

For purposes of determining eligibility and priority for CCDF-funded child care services, lead agencies must define the following italicized terms. (658P, 658E(c)(3)(B))

• attending (a job training or educational program; include minimum hours if applicable) -

• in loco parentis -

• job training and educational program -

• physical or mental incapacity (if the Lead Agency provides such services to children age 13 and older) -

• protective services -

• residing with -

• special needs child -

• very low income -

• working (include minimum hours if applicable) -

• Additional terminology related to conditions of eligibility or priority established by the Lead Agency:

Page 39 Effective Date: October 1, 2007

Amended Effective: ____________