Created in 2007 by the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), The Pennsylvania Key implements the work and supports the policies developed and managed by OCDEL. Learn More. >
A new survey from OCDEL is gathering information to determine how OCDEL is meeting professional development needs when it comes to the suspension and expulsion policy. Those who play a role in child care or pre-k should complete the survey, including those who have received the guidance documents, and/or received the initial policy announcement and...Read More
Professionals in York and Adams counties have been working for years on a collaborative response to assist child care with behavior concerns and possible expulsion or suspension of young children. They began seven years ago with a program entitled SPEC, Supporting Positive Environments for Children. This model provides ongoing coaching support to early childhood programs...Read More
Watch Relationships Matter: Reducing Suspension and Expulsion in Early Learning, a recorded webinar featuring OCDEL Deputy Secretary Suzann Morris. This 25 minute, self-paced video is designed to assist programs as they develop their own policies surrounding expulsion and suspension of children. For more resources on Suspension and Expulsion, please visit the PA Key website.Read More
An asynchronous pre-application webinar is now available under Quick Links section on the PA Pre-K Counts, How to Apply page. This webinar is designed to assist interested applicants in the completion of the application. The webinar includes information on the application process and program requirements.Read More
Department of Human Services’ (DHS) Acting Secretary Teresa Miller recently visited Columbia County Family Center, part of the Pennsylvania Family Center network, to observe its evidence-based home visiting program. The center in Bloomsburg provides early childhood and prenatal home visiting to ensure families have the support and services they need to provide a holistic and...Read More
The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) is seeking applicants for Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts. Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts was enacted into law by Act 45 of 2007 (and amended in 2008 and 2010) amending the Public School Code of 1949 (24 P.S. §§ 15- 1511-D—15-1516-D). Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts provides children with the opportunity to experience a high...Read More
The PA Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) Deputy Secretary, Suzann Morris, shares information about Governor Wolf’s proposed 2018-19 budget. Hear what she has to say about the impact this proposed budget has for families and early learning programs throughout Pennsylvania. Click here to listen to the recording.Read More
On February 13, 2018, the PA Department of Human Services (DHS) announced initiatives included in Governor Wolf’s 2018-19 budget proposal in support of Pennsylvania families and children. The budget items will provide opportunities for a brighter future by expanding access to services for self-sufficiency and sustainability. The proposed 2018-19 budget includes investments in high-quality early...Read More
News from our friends at PennAEYC: The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives passed a two-year budget deal, which was signed by President Trump on February 9, 2018. This means the continuing resolution process and government shutdowns are over. The spending plan would double the investment in the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG)!...Read More
In his budget address this week, Governor Wolf set important spending priorities for increasing investments in young children including: $40 million so that 4,390 additional three and four year olds can attend PreK and Head Start $25 million to help working families afford childcare $4.5 million increas in Pennsylvania’s home visiting programs that work with...Read More