May 14, 2025 OCDEL Provides Update on Certification Regulation Rewrite Project The Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) shared a video in which its deputy secretary, Shante’ Brown, discusses an update on its Certification Regulation Rewrite project. Learn More The Certification Regulation Rewrite project is an effort to modernize and simplify child care regulations, making them more effective and relevant for families, providers, and children. OCDEL has been working closely with child care professionals, advocacy organizations, early education leaders, and teams from different agencies to ensure the new regulations reflect real-world needs and experiences. “We are deeply committed to advancing quality, equity, and access to early learning,” Brown said. “Our work is driven by understanding that every child deserves a strong foundation for success and every family should have access to quality care, but we know that quality care can only happen when providers are supported by clear, modern, and efficient regulations.” In the video, Brown talks about the progress and partnerships that have guided the work. She also explains which stage the project is in and what it means for those working in early childhood education in the state. “These regulations reflect real-world experiences and needs of the field,” she said. “Together we shape the process that’s not just about rewriting the regulations, but making sure those regulations serve the people who depend on them every day.”
December 16, 2024 Nominations Open: Pennsylvania’s Early Childhood Education Recognition The Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) is seeking nominations to recognize early childhood professionals for their accomplishments. Learn More Individuals can nominate people in the early childhood education field who have made accomplishments in the following areas: Academic (accomplishment recognition can include directors, classroom staff, and support staff in an early learning program) Years of Service (completed years are recognized in increments of 10, 15, 20 and 25+ years only) Retirement These recognitions are applicable to all staffing positions within an early learning program, including, but not limited to: Directors Classroom staff (teachers, aides, etc.) Support staff (receptionists, janitors, kitchen staff, etc.) Submissions can be nominations (submitted by someone else), or self-submitted (submitted by the individual to be recognized) and will be collected on an ongoing basis. The deadline to submit is Friday, January 3. Eligible submissions will receive a letter of recognition from OCDEL Deputy Secretary Shante’ Brown. Submit a nomination.
