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ANNOUNCEMENTS

Communications Leadership Cohort Training Opportunity
Applications are being accepted through Sept. 17 for early childhood education professionals to participate in training for becoming spokespersons on early education programs and services. Selected applicants will participate in nine professional development modules focused on communications, media relations, and messaging.

Click here to download the application as a Word document.
Added by: Karen Seeber (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/27/2010

BUILD ECE News, August 20 now available!
The August 20 edition of BUILD ECE News is here! Learn about the Federal grant for Pennsylvania home visiting programs to improve well-being of families, find out how your favorite child care site can be featured in a USDA video, discover possible funding and employment opportunities and more!
Added by: Mary P. Hall (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/20/2010
Parent Child Interaction Therapy Updates
  1. Applications are due Friday, September 10, 2010.
  2. Click here to download the PowerPoint from the August 20th webinar.
  3. Click here to view the PCIT Video Clip

Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/20/2010
Parent Child Interaction Therapy Training Opportunity
The Department of Public Welfare is requesting applications from licensed outpatient psychiatric clinics to participate in a program to train therapists in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy. For more information and to download the materials, click on the links below:

  1. Request for Application
  2. Application Form
  3. Appendix 1A - Description
  4. Appendix 1B - Training Guidelines
  5. Appendix 2- Room Requirements
  6. Appendix 3 - Data Collection

Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/12/2010
2010-11 Early Childhood Executive Leadership Schedule Announced
Click here to view the 2010-11 schedule for the Early Childhood Executive Leadership.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/10/2010
Attention PQAS Instructors-PDII Revised Early Learning Standards & Standards Aligned System
This session is mandatory for PQAS Instructors who would like to continue instructing on ELS and those who would like to start! Update for instructors on Revised Early Learning Standards module. Instructors will walk through the changes to the workshop and ask any questions about the content. Standards Aligned System (SAS) is a focus of PDE on teacher preparation and best practices in developing EC curriculum. PDII will be held August 25th from 9:00-3:00 at the Harrisburg PATTAN. Register online by logging into the PA Key Intranet.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/6/2010
BUILD ECE News, July 9 now available!
The July 9th edition of BUILD ECE News is now available on the PA Promise for Children website.
Added by: Mary P. Hall (Pennsylvania Key) , 7/12/2010
Early Childhood in the News
More than 80 articles were published on early education from April-June 2010. Click here to download an article summary and see how early education is being covered by the media in your community.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 7/9/2010
Lock Haven University adds ECE Concentration to Online Master's Degree
Click here for more information.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 7/8/2010
Early Childhood Behavior Institute
Registration is open for this exciting event. You can attend the days of your preference, you do not need to attend all four days. Register online at www.pattan.net or click here for more information.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 6/21/2010
NEW Fact Sheets Available: Keystone STARS, PA Pre-K Counts and Head Start Supplemental Assistance Program
  1. Keystone STARS fact sheet
  2. PA Pre-K Counts fact sheet
  3. HSSAP fact sheet

Added by: Karen Seeber (Pennsylvania Key) , 6/16/2010
Tuesday alert: ECE levels the playing field for at-risk kids
Please share with the Governor and your legislators how quality early learning opportunities help at-risk kids overcome risk factors to enter kindergarten on par with their peers.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 5/25/2010
Survey: Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education Proposed
The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education is surveying your interest in obtaining a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education. Your responses will provide support for initiating the proposed program and will guide the design of the program model. Please take a few moments to complete the brief survey
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 5/13/2010
ELN Conference Calls for Family & Group Providers
Click here for more information.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 5/12/2010
Tuesday alert: PA's ECE programs improving quality
Help build the case for early education with our Governor and legislator by sending weekly information from our Tuesday alerts. This week's building block: Pennsylvania's early education system continues to improve quality, creating a higher return on our community investment. Share your views and experiences using these facts as the theme. You can also use our PA Promise email to contact our decisionmakers as they craft next year's budget.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 5/5/2010
Gubernatorial candidate forum on ECE
The gubernatorial candidate forum held during the Early Learning Investment Commission (ELIC) Economic Summit on April 19 is now posted on the PCN website in their Election Central section. Go to www.pcntv.com/election2010/index.htmland click on Econ Summit Gub Forum 4/19/10
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 4/29/2010
Updated: the Multiplier Effect of Child Care Investments
This flyer illustrates by county how Pennsylvania's investment in child care and early education helps circulate more dollars into the regional economy. Updated flyer includes 2008-2009 investments by county. Great to show that child care and early education has an immediate impact on the economy.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 4/22/2010
Program-to-Program Articulation
An update on Early Childhood Program-to-Program Articulation projects is now available.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 4/22/2010
April community outreach tools for WOYC
Celebrate Week of the Young Child (April 11-17) by sending an appreciation e-card to your favorite teacher, writing a letter to the editor or inviting local leaders to a WOYC event or reading. Find more tips and tools on the Community Outreach Calendar page!
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 4/6/2010
Keystone Color Me Healthy Distance Education Available
A distance education professional development opportunity is now available for those who are unable to attend a face-to-face Keystone Color Me Healthy Training. More information.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 3/31/2010
Early Childhood Executive Leadership Institute
Opportunity for leaders of programs serving children birth through age 8 to learn together as part of a powerful professional development experience: NISL's Early Childhood Executive Leadership Institute bridges the gaps between early learning programs and K-12 schools. More information can be found here.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 3/29/2010
English Language Learners (ELL) Toolkit Now Available
The English Language Learners (ELL) Toolkit is now available for early care and education programs.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 3/29/2010
Have you signed the PA's Promise Declaration?
More than 12,000 Pennsylvanians have signed the PA's Promise for Children Declaration to show their support for quality early education... have you? Take a look at whose signed on already and sign on yourself!
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 3/12/2010
2010-11 Keystone STARS Performance Standards for Family Child Care Homes Now Available!
More information can be found here.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 3/8/2010
2010-11 HSSAP Continuation Funding available
Click here for more information
Added by: Amber Repman (Pennsylvania Key) , 3/8/2010
Infant-Toddler Report Now Available
The final report of the Pennsylvania Infant-Toddler Systems Committee of the Early Learning Council has been released. Download the Report Intro. Download the Final Report.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 2/18/2010
Governor's proposed budget for OCDEL, 2010-2011
Download OCDEL's one-pager and powerpoint on the Governor's proposed budget for 2010-2011 for early childhood programs.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 2/10/2010
January Community Outreach Tools
New themes and tools posted for January's community outreach calendar - check it out!
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 1/11/2010
OCDEL 2008-2009 Annual Report online
The OCDEL 2008-2009 Annual Report is now posted. Click here to download the report only or report and ECE county profiles.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 12/1/2009
Learn What's New With the Early Learning Standards

Learn whats new about the Early Childhood Standards for Infant/Toddler, Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten. This online training is appropriate for practitioners who work with infants, toddlers, pre-kindergarten and kindergarten children in any capacity. This session will highlight why the revisions were made and how to read the new format of the Standards. The connections to the Standards Aligned System will be covered in detail. The webinar can be reviewed in less than two hours. No Act 48 or PQAS hours can be awarded for those participants who view the webinar independently.To obtain the most information from the webinar, participants should have a copy of the Continuum and at least one of the Revised Standards. The Revised Standards are available fordownload.


Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 11/12/2009

2008-2009 OCDEL Reach and Risk Report
The 2008-2009 Program Reach and Risk Assessment report is now available. Click HERE for the report, county and city data sheets, and community education tools.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 11/3/2009
Early Learning Network: A Guide for Parents
In Pennsylvania, the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) provides funding to a variety of statewide early education programs. Electronic data systems are needed to maintain individual child records and to collect data for improving early childhood programs. The Early Learning Network (ELN)is Pennsylvania's electronic data system for gathering information on early childhood programs and this guide for parents contains more information about the ELN.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 10/15/2009
OCDEL Announces Funding Opportunity for Early Head Start
As part of the federal recovery program, new opportunities for Early Head Start are becoming available in Pennsylvania. The Office of Child Development and Early Learning, as part of its work to promote a unified and comprehensive approach to early learning, applied to participate in the new federal Early Head Start funding available through the Department of Health & Human Services. OCDEL, has proposed to provide 128 Early Head Start slots through Center-based and Home-based service delivery options to pregnant women, infants and toddlers from low income families for a two year period. More information.
Added by: Amber Repman (Pennsylvania Key) , 10/15/2009
New Recognition & Response Website
Franklin Porter Graham Child Development Institute announces a website that is designed to provide the most up-to-date knowledge and resources on Recognition & Response (R&R), including highlights from a recent webinar presenting new research findings on the first implementation study on R&R in pre-k classrooms. Check it out
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 10/14/2009
Community Education Resources Page updated
OCDEL's community education resources page is now listed under Community Outreach/Tools & Resources. Now posted- updated OCDEL Community Education calendar, sign up for e-newsletters, and updated Building Relationships with Legislators Toolkit.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 10/6/2009
Research Synthesis on Infant Mental Health & Early Care & Education Providers
The Center on Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning (CSEFEL) recently published a research synthesis, entitled Infant Mental Health and Early Care and Education Providers (n.d.), to answer frequently asked questions that early childhood providers have about Infant Mental Health (IMH), early social and emotional development, and the IMH system. This research is available online.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 10/5/2009
Resources for Supporting Children Exposed to Domestic Violence
The Family Violence Prevention Fund recently released Connect: Supporting Children Exposed to Domestic Violence, a trainer's guide and set of materials designed to help resource families (foster parents and kinship care givers) and others to promote resilience among children who have been exposed to violence. The toolkit includes a curriculum, power points, mini magazines, and optional training videos and Public Service Announcements (PSAs). The materials are available for download. Free copies of the CD can be ordered by emailing childrensteam@endabuse.org.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 10/5/2009
CDC Releases New Guidance for Flu
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) released new federal guidelines to help child care and early childhood programs respond to influenza during the 2009-10 influenza season.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 9/9/2009
ECMH Advisory Committee Recommendations
On September 1, 2009 the Early Childhood Mental Health Advisory Committee presented its recommendations toDepartment of Public Welfare Secretary Estelle Richman. These recommendations are important steps for sustaining and advancing the momentum to improve healthy social and emotional development for Pennsylvania's youngest citizens that began in February 2006 with the issuance of the Report of the BUILD Infant/Toddler Taskforce.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 9/3/2009
Approved Pediatric First Aid-Updated!
This document will provide more information on what is approved Pediatric First Aid for Keystone STARS.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 9/3/2009
Check out rallies in your community
See if there are any rallies or public events regarding the budget taking place in your community. Visit the PA Promise website, click on Early Education in my County, and your county's link. Events will be listed in the right column.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/31/2009
Impasse article archive
Click HERE to read the nearly 100 articles published regarding the budget impasse and effect on early education.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/31/2009
Updated impact of budget impasse flyer (8/28)
Click HERE to download updated one-page fact sheet on how SB 850 and the budget impasse are affecting early education programs statewide.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/31/2009
New Professional Development Opportunity for PQAS Approved Director Instructors

This series was developed as a result of a survey conducted by the Office of Child Development & Early Learning, Bureau of Certification, in which respondents overwhelmingly the need for more professional development opportunities on supervision of children.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/13/2009
School-Age New Staff Orientation-Fee Announcement
Effective immediately a $5.00 per person fee will be required to review completed School-Age Care New Staff Orientation packets. More information about where to send payment can be found here.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 7/24/2009
Budget Update - Conference Committee negotiating final budget bill
On July 21, the House voted to non-concur to the Senate version of HB 1416 (which slashes 17,000 children from early education). The bill now goes into conference committee with legislative caucus leaders and Governor to negotiate final budget. Contact your legislators and Governor Rendell today!
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 7/23/2009
PA Pre-K Counts Second Year Outcomes Excellent
Just released - Child outcomes reports show nearly every child (99%) showed age-appropriate or emerging age-appropriate proficiency in literacy, numeracy, and social skills after attending the PA Pre-K Counts program this year. Click HERE to download PDF of outcomes.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 6/4/2009
PA Pre-K Counts Showing Results - updated
Download our latest flyer showing the progress of PA Pre-K Counts children in 2007-2008 and 2008-2009.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 3/12/2009
Attention new PA Pre-K Counts Applicants
The 2009-10 Guidance, Poverty Information, Bidder's Conference & TA Call Registration and ELS announcements referenced in the PA Pre-K Counts guidance, as well as other relevant information can be found by clicking here.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 3/3/2009
Keystone STARS Provider Survey Results
As part of its work to continue to strengthen and improve the Keystone STARS program, the Office of Child Development & Early Learning (OCDEL) conducted a provider survey that focused on provider perception of the most beneficial aspects of STARS and on ease of use of the various STARS resources. Click here to view the report.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 2/19/2009
OCDEL 07-08 Annual Report
The OCDEL 07-08 annual report is now online. Download the report only, or the report with Early Education County Profiles.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 2/16/2009
PA Pre-K Counts accepting Letters of Intent for 2009-10 new funding
As part of his FY 2009-2010 budget proposal, Governor Rendell proposed additional funding to PA Pre-K Counts that would allow for an additional 1,050 children to receive high quality pre-kindergarten in the 2009-2010 school year.

OCDEL is now seeking Letters of Intent from new applicants. Those agencies that are interested in applying for new funding should review the below information and return the completed Letters of Intent to the Office of Child Development by Monday, March 9, 2009.

For additional info, visit the PDE Website, or access the LOI.
Added by: Mary P. Hall (Pennsylvania Key) , 2/10/2009

Braiding Preschool Funding Tool
This professional development session is designed for both administrative and fiscal leaders of small and medium size entities that are receiving or that expect to receive various sources of preschool funding from the Office of Child Development and Early Learning. Click here for more information.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 2/10/2009
OCDEL budget proposal 09-10
Click HERE to access a powerpoint and fact sheet highlighting the Governor's proposed budget for Pennsylvania's early education initiatives.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 2/4/2009
Community Engagement Regional Meeting Results Now Available!
The resources and breakout session ideas from the November Community Engagement Regional Meetings are now available by clicking here.

Added by: Mary P. Hall (Pennsylvania Key) , 12/11/2008
ECE Certification Program Offered to Students with Bachelors Degree

Alvernia University in Reading is offering a second cohort starting in January for individuals who have a Bachelors degree ECE Certification by the end of August, 2009! There are two tracks being offered depending upon whether one has already completed student teaching experience. This accelerated program includes two three credit courses, a two credit practicum, and student teaching, if needed.

Click here for more information, or here for the application.
Added by: Mary P. Hall (Pennsylvania Key) , 12/11/2008

Regulatory Amendments

On May 24, 2008, the Department of Public Welfare published amendments to the regulations for child care centers, group child care homes and family child care homes. The regulatory amendments were effective on September 22, 2008. Click here to view the document.

From August through October, staff from the Office of Child Development and Early Learning conducted information sessions for child care providers to discuss the regulation amendments. At each of the sessions, OCDEL staff recorded questions from providers. We gathered those questions and additional questions received from other sources into this document. Please note that this document should be read in conjunction with the regulations and is not a substitute for reading the regulations.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 12/1/2008

2007-2008 Reach & Risk Report online
OCDEL's 2007-2008 Program Reach and County Risk Assessment Report is now online and includes county and city-specific data on risk factors affecting children's success in school and availability of publicly-funded early childhood intiatives.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 11/17/2008
Educational Requirements for Select Early Childhood Programs in PA

Studies have shown that the presence of teachers with a bachelors degree with specialized training in early childhood education leads to better outcomes for young children. In light of these findings, state and federal programs have increased the educational qualifications for teachers and assistant teachers working in early childhood education programs. This chart shows the changes in requirements and the growing need for qualified early childhood education professionals.


Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 10/30/2008

Executive Order regarding the Early Learning Investment Commission
The purpose of the Commission is to secure support for public investment in early learning by focusing on practices that are educationally, economically and scientifically sound. Learn more (pdf).
Added by: Mary P. Hall (Pennsylvania Key) , 10/28/2008
Executive Order regarding the Early Learning Council
The purpose of the Early Learning Council is to plan for the expansion of effective early learning and development services for young children and their families, and to make recommendations to ensure the plans are implemented successfully. Learn more (pdf).
Added by: Mary P. Hall (Pennsylvania Key) , 10/28/2008
OCDEL Community Education Resources page
OCDEL providers interested in spreading the word about their programs in their communities can visit the OCDEL Community Education Resources page for tools and templates to help.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 10/21/2008
New Child Care Certification Regulations
Do you have questions about the new Child Care Certification Regulations? Click here for more information.
Added by: Mary P. Hall (Pennsylvania Key) , 10/9/2008
2007-2008 PA Pre-K Counts End of Year Report
Click HERE to download the 2007-2008 PA Pre-K Counts end of year report and appendix. Report includes results of the program for its first year and data on grantees, children served, etc.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 10/1/2008
Work Sampling Online Tutorial
The Work Sampling Online Tutorial is now available in the Resource section of the PA Pre-K Counts Intranet for PA Pre-K Counts participants. If you have questions or need help logging in, please contact Amber Steich ambste@berksiu.org
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 9/25/2008
Early Learning Facilities Fund FAQ
A new document providing answers to Frequently Asked Questions on the Early Learning Facilities Fund is now posted. Click HERE to access the FAQ and the RFP - proposals due Oct. 20.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 9/22/2008
ECE Resources at Public Libraries
Click here for information for Keystone STARS providers about services available to you at your local public library.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/27/2008
FBI Clearances FAQ
The Bureau of Certification Services in the Office of Child Development & Early Learning has prepared a Frequently Asked Questions document regarding the required FBI Clearances.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/27/2008
STARS Summer Roundtable FAQ
Click here for a Frequently Asked Questions document that was prepared as a result of Deputy Secretary Harriet Dichter's Summer Roundtable Tour, in which she made personal appearances in all six of our regions. OCDEL as prepared this document with the purpose of clarifying issues or providing additional resources for providers and stakeholders statewide who shared their successes and challenges with Deputy Secretary Dichter. Please direct your questions to your Specialist or local Regional Key.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/27/2008
Early Learning Facilities Fund - Due Oct 20
As a result of a partnership between the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) and the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA), the Fiscal Year Budget 2008-2009 is supporting a new Early Learning Facilities Fund (ELFF). The fund will subsidize some of the costs of constructing or renovating early learning centers who are Keystone STAR 2 or above with special consideration to programs participating in Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts. Click HERE for info on how to apply.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/22/2008
SACC New Staff Orientation Materials Update
The SACC New Staff Orientation materials have been updated to reflect 1) a change in where materials are to be mailed for review and 2) a change in the definition of "Young school-age child" as per new certification regulations effective September 22, 2008. This resulted in a change to questions 2-7 in Module 2. Updated instructions and workbooks can be obtained by clicking here.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 7/11/2008
PA Pre-K Counts Showing Results for PA's Children
First year reports from Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts grantees show that nearly 70% of children achieved age-appropriate skills and behaviors after participating in the program. Click HERE for more information and a fact sheet.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 6/18/2008
Recommendations to promote quality in regulations-exempt child care settings
Click HERE to download the report from the BUILD Task Force on Quality in Regulation-Exempt Child Care Settings on recommendations to OCDEL.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 5/21/2008
Do you live in the Southwest and Need ECE certification?
Two southwest universities, Chatham and Seton Hill, are holding Open Houses for teachers needing ECE certification:

Seton Hill University - May 28, 6:30 pm CLICK HERE for a flyer and more info

Chatham Unviersity- June 4, 6:30 pm
CLICK HERE for a flyer and more info
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 5/16/2008

2006-2007 OCDEL Annual Report
Click HERE to download the Office of Child Development and Early Learning's Annual Report for FY 2006-2007 (PDF)
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 4/25/2008
Search for Child Care Programs Online
Parents interested in finding child care can now search online for child care programs by location, STARS level, ages of children served, even if transportation is available to/from nearby schools! Click HERE to download a flyer to share with parents about this great new service.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 4/16/2008
CEG RFP Questions & Answers
This document contains questions and answers related to the Community Engagement request for proposal and will be updated periodically as additional questions are received.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 4/2/2008
Attention new PA Pre-K Counts Applicants
The 2007-08 ELS Announcements referenced in the PA Pre-K Counts guidance, as well as other relevant ELS announcements are posted here for your information. Dates may change and there may be minor content changes for 08-09 but these give you an idea of the program structure.
Added by: Jenn Bender (Pennsylvania Key) , 3/26/2008
ECE Student Advocacy Toolkit
ECE students and teachers - learn how to become a children's champion with our Student Advocacy Toolkit. This toolkit includes a powerpoint presentation, discussion guide and activities to help college teachers discuss public policy and our role as children's champions. Click HERE to access.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 3/17/2008
LOI list of new applicants for PA Pre-K Counts
The listing of agencies that have submitted letters of intent (LOI) for the new grants through PA Pre-K Counts in 2008-2009 is now posted on the PA Pre-K Counts page. Click HERE to access the listing.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 3/12/2008
PA Pre-K Counts Guidance & Application for 2008-2009 available
PA Pre-K Counts is now accepting applications for Continuation grants for current grantees and new and expansion grants for 2008-2009. Click HERE for information on accessing the letter of intent, guidance and applications.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 2/8/2008
Governor's FY08-09 proposed budget for ECE
Click HERE to learn more about Governor Rendell's proposed budget for early childhood education in FY 2008-2009. Powerpoint and flyer available.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 2/5/2008
PA Pre-K Counts Mid Year Report 2007
PA Pre-K Counts mid year report highlights the amazing progress our 146 grantees with 179 partners have made to offer quality pre-kindergarten to 10,980 children in 845 classrooms. Click HERE to download the report.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 2/1/2008
Infant Toddler Mental Health Symposium
The PA Build Initiative, PA Key, and PA Dept. of Public Welfare are hosting the Infant Toddler Mental Health Symposium, Dec 13-14 in Pittsburgh, which will bring together experts from PA and leading states to discuss current iniatives and future strategies to promote positive social/emotional development in our youngest children. Click HERE to view the agenda and for more information.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 12/10/2007
Take a Virtual Tour of OCDEL
Click HERE to view the 2007 OCDEL powerpoint which provides a comprehensive overview of OCDEL's mission, programs, and vision for the future.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 10/26/2007
June 2007 Program Reach and County Risk Report
This OCDEL report shows by county the level of children at risk of school failure due to various indicators, as well as the reach of OCDEL programs to children in each county. CLICK HERE to download the report and data spreadsheet
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 10/24/2007
Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts
Click HERE for information on Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts, including how to enroll your child and who is providing PA Pre-K Counts classrooms across the Commonwealth.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 9/25/2007
Subsidy add-on for Keystone STARS programs
As part of OCDELs commitment to continuous quality improvement in early learning, child care programs participating in Keystone STARS at the STAR 2 level or above will receive a subsidy add-on for every child they serve that is enrolled in Child Care Works, effective September 1, 2007. Click HERE for schedule of rate add-ons.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 9/25/2007
Model Pre-K Classroom - Resources for early learning programs
The learning environment plays a pivotal role in pre-kindergarten education. Click HERE for resources on setting up a model pre-k classroom environment.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 9/12/2007
Quality Child Care Hearing Testimony
The PA House Children and Youth Committee held a hearing on quality child care in Philadelphia on August 29. Click HERE for testimony.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 9/11/2007
STARS program enrollment FY 06-07
Click HERE for a report on programs enrolled in Keystone STARS in FY 06-07
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 9/11/2007
PA Pre-K Counts Grantees Announced - Enrollments Begin
The grantees for Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts for the 2007-2008 school year were announced on August 10 and many programs are beginning their enrollment process now. Click HERE for more information.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/17/2007
New payment levels for subsidized child care rates effective August 1
The Pennsylvania budget for 2007-2008 includes funding to adjust child care reimbursement rates to address the minimum wage increase and provide tiered reimbursement for Keystone STARS programs. As a result, OCDEL has adjusted the Maximum Child Care Assistance (MCCA) levels in nearly every county. Click HERE for more information and a chart of the revised rates.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/10/2007
RRP: Multi-Institution Program-to-Program Articulation in ECE Pilot Project
OCDEL and the PA Key is supporting the higher education community in its work on articulation by making available funds for two Early Childhood Education Program-to-Program Articulation Pilot Projects. RFPs due October 1. Click HERE for RFP and more information.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 8/10/2007
Governor signs FY07-08 Budget - Great for Children!
On July 17 Governor Ed Rendell signed Pennsylvania's FY 07-08 budget, which is a "terrific, terrific budget" for early childhood initiatives. Click HERE for details and how to thank those who made this great budget for children a reality!
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 7/18/2007
Summary and Testimony from House Education Committee Hearing on PA Pre-K Counts
Click HERE to read a summary of the testimony and discussion from the House Education Committee hearing on PA Pre-K Counts on May 30, 2007. You may also download individual testimony.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 6/7/2007
Proposed adjustments to Keystone STARS awards and standards
Click HERE for the proposed 07/08adjustment to Keystone STARS financial incentives and center based standards. Comments should be emailed to RA-ocdearlylearning@state.pa.us. by March 31, 2007.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 3/9/2007
LEARN MORE ABOUT PENNSYLVANIA PRE-K COUNTS
CLICK HERE for information on Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts, Governor Rendell's proposed $75 million investment to provide quality pre-kindergarten to more than 11,000 3 and 4 year olds across the Commonwealth. You will find information on eligibility for families and early learning programs, bidders conferences and technical assistance, and ways that you can help build support for this exciting initiative.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 2/20/2007
Governor's Proposed Budget for OCDEL 07-08
Earlier today Governor Rendell released his proposed budget for FY 2007-2008, including his proposal for programs affiliated with the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 2/6/2007
September 2006 Keystone STARS Quarterly Progress Report
This report includes data and trends on enrollment in Keystone STARS. Click here to download report.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 1/12/2007
OCDEL 2007 Program Reach and County Risk Assessment
This report by the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) provides an assessment of risk factors and ECE investment supported by the state. Spreadsheets of data by county included. Click here to download report and spreadsheets.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 1/12/2007
2005-2006 OCD Annual Report Released
The PA Office of Child Development is pleased to announce the release of its 2005-2006 Annual Report. This report highlights the state-sponsored early care and education programs. Click here to download.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 1/3/2007
Governor Rendell Launches New Office to Enhance Early Childhood Education
The Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) will strengthen Pennsylvania Children’s Early Education. Click here to read the Governor's press release.
Added by: Kelly Swanson (Pennsylvania Key) , 12/14/2006
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