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Shante’ A. Brown, the Office of Child Development and Early Learning’s deputy secretary, has released an announcement regarding updated provider agreements for certified child care providers.

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The video message, which can be viewed below, clarifies the agreements for all regulated child care providers as well as Early Learning Resource Centers (ELRC), and OCDEL Early Learning Resource Center Program representatives.

In the video, Brown discusses guidance that aims to provide clarity about suspension and expulsion practices. The agreements require that providers contact ELRCs before suspending or expelling a child. This is aimed to ensure that families still have access to resources provided by ELRCs, which can also help families to find alternative care.

Another topic covered by Brown is providers charging the difference between private pay and subsidy rates. She said that OCDEL has received numerous questions about how Keystone STARS and nontraditional add-on rates impact charges. With the passage of new child care subsidy regulations, OCDEL wants to hear feedback from providers. This fall, it will ask providers and families to participate in discussions on the matter.

Deadlines

Certified child care providers will have to complete and sign new provider agreements, which will be effective August 1.

The provider agreement establishes the terms of participation and payment between the payer and a certified child care provider who provides care to children who participate in the state’s subsidized child care program, Child Care Works. To be in compliance with the Child Care Development Block Grant and 55 pa. Code Chapter 3042 Subsidized Child Care Eligibility, OCDEL must update the certified child care provider agreements.

ELRCs mailed the agreements and appendices to providers in June. Providers must read and sign the updated agreement indicating that they agree to follow all rules and return the signed agreement to the ELRC by July 31.