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Through this information collection, ACF is gathering data on the Tribal Lead Agency’s grant program to

understand the design and effectiveness of the program and to inform technical assistance needs. Public

reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 120 hours per response for Part I (for

all Tribal Lead Agencies) and 24 hours per response for Part II (for medium and large Tribal Lead Agencies),

including the time for reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed, reviewing the collection

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amended). An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of

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Child Care and Development Fund

for

Tribal Lead Agency: Cowlitz Indian Tribe

FFY 2023–2025

Plan Status: Approved as of 2023-05-24 20:57:43 GMT

This Plan describes the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) program to be administered by the Tribal

Lead Agency for the period from 5/1/2023 to 9/30/2025. As provided for in the applicable statutes and

regulations, the Tribal Lead Agency has the flexibility to modify this program at any time, including amending

the options selected or described herein.

For purposes of simplicity and clarity, the specific provisions printed herein of applicable laws and regulations are

sometimes paraphrases of, or excerpts and incomplete quotations from, the full text. The Tribal Lead Agency

acknowledges its responsibility to adhere to them regardless of these modifications.

Contents

Introduction and How To Approach Plan Development

1 Define CCDF Leadership and Coordination With Relevant Systems

1.1 Tribal CCDF Applicant

1.2 Designated Tribal Lead Agency

1.3 Administration Through Contracts or Agreements

1.4 Consultation in the Development of the Tribal CCDF Plan

1.5 Indian Child and Indian Reservation or Service Area (AUTO FILLED FROM APPENDIX 1

SUBMISSION)

1.6 Child Count

1.7 Types of CCDF Providers

1.8 Coordination of Services

1.9 Program Integrity and Accountability

1.10 Disaster Preparedness and Response Plan

2 Establish Standards and Monitoring Processes To Ensure the Health and Safety of

Child Care Settings

2.1 Overview of Health and Safety Standards and Monitoring

2.2 Health and Safety Standards and Training Requirements for CCDF Providers

2.3 Monitoring and Enforcement Policies and Practices for CCDF Providers

2.4 Exemptions for Relative Providers

2.5 Comprehensive Background Checks

3 Supporting Continuous Quality Improvement

3.1 Quality Improvement Goals and Activities

3.2 Supporting Training and Professional Development of the Child Care Workforce With CCDF

Quality Funds

4 Tribal Lead Agencies With Small Allocations Only—Direct Services

4.1 Direct Child Care Services Offering

5 Provide Stable Child Care Financial Assistance to Families (Tribal Lead Agencies With

Medium and Large Allocations)

5.1 Eligible Children and Families

5.2 Application and Eligibility Determination/Redetermination Process

5.3 Improving Access for Vulnerable Children and Families

5.4 Family Contribution to Payments

6 Ensure Equal Access to Quality Child Care for Low-Income Children (Tribes with

Medium and Large Allocations)

6.1 Description of Direct Child Care Services

6.2 Assessing Child Care Market Rates

6.3 Establishing Adequate Payment Rates

6.4 Implement Generally Accepted Payment Practices and Ensure Timeliness of Payments

7 Promote Family Engagement Through Outreach and Consumer Education (Tribal Lead

Agencies with Medium and Large Allocations)

7.1 Parental-Complaint Process

7.2 Consumer Education for Families, Providers, and the Public

7.3 Monitoring and Enforcement Policies and Practices for CCDF Providers

7.4 Additional Consumer and Provider Education

7.5 Procedures for Providing Information on Developmental Screenings

7.6 Consumer Statement for Families Receiving CCDF Program Funds

Triennial Child Count Declaration

Tribal Early Learning Initiative

Introduction and How To Approach Plan Development

The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) program provides resources to state, territory, and Tribal

Lead Agencies that enable low-income parents to work or pursue education and training so that they can

better support their families and can promote the learning and development of their children. The CCDF

program also provides funding to enhance the quality of child care for all children. On November 19,

2014, the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Act of 2014 was signed into law (Public Law

[P.L.] 113-186). The law reauthorizes and significantly revises the purposes of the CCDF program and

requirements for states and territories, but Congress left discretion to the U.S. Department of Health and

Human Services (HHS) to determine how the new provisions would apply to Tribes.

In September 2016, the CCDF Final Rule was released outlining the regulatory requirements for the CCDF

program based on the CCDBG Act of 2014. The CCDF program requirements protect the health and safety

of children in child care; help families make informed consumer choices and access information to

support child development; provide equal access to stable child care for low-income children; and

enhance the quality of child care and the early childhood workforce.

Tribal flexibility includes tiered requirements based on the size of their allocation: Tribal Lead Agencies

with small, medium, and large allocations. The CCDF Final Rule exempts Tribal Lead Agencies with small

allocations (less than $250,000 in fiscal year [FY] 2016) from the majority of the CCDF program

requirements, allowing those Tribal Lead Agencies more flexibility in how to spend their CCDF program

funds and how to focus those funds on health and safety and quality activities. Tribal Lead Agencies with

small allocations must spend their CCDF program funds in alignment with the goals and purposes of the

CCDF program and must comply with the health and safety, monitoring, background checks, and quality

spending requirements. To align with these limited CCDF program requirements, Tribal Lead Agencies

with small allocations will complete an abbreviated CCDF Plan. This approach balances increased flexibility

with accountability, and allows Tribal Lead Agencies with small allocations to spend their CCDF program

funds in ways that would most benefit their communities.

The CCDF Plan developed by Tribal Lead Agencies is the primary mechanism that the Administration for

Children and Families (ACF) uses to determine Tribal Lead Agency compliance with the requirements of

the law and Final Rule. This CCDF Plan Preprint consists of two parts, which are aligned with the

flexibilities that Tribal Lead Agencies have based on the size of their CCDF allocation.

Part I (for Tribal Lead Agencies with small, medium, and large allocations):

1) Define CCDF Leadership and Coordination With Relevant Systems

2) Establish Standards and Monitoring Processes To Ensure the Health and Safety of Child Care Settings

3) Supporting Continuous Quality Improvement

4) Tribal Lead Agencies With Small Allocations: Direct Services.

Part II (for Tribal Lead Agencies with medium and large allocations only):

5) Provide Stable Child Care Financial Assistance to Families

6) Ensure Equal Access to Quality Child Care for Low-Income Children

7) Promote Family Engagement Through Outreach and Consumer Education.

These sections reflect key functions of an integrated system of child care for low-income working families.

The intention is that Tribal Lead Agencies and the Federal Government will be able to use this information

to track and assess progress, determine the need for technical assistance (TA), and determine compliance

with specific requirements and deadlines.

Plan Amendments: Tribal Lead Agencies are required to request approval from OCC through the

CARS system whenever a “substantial” change in the Tribal Lead Agency’s approved CCDF Plan

occurs. Please refer to the ACF Program Instruction regarding CCDF Approval of Plan Amendments,

CCDF-ACF-PI-2009-01, for specific details and timelines specific to the Plan amendment process.

Note: All requirements not fully implemented in accordance with CCDF regulations are subject to

compliance actions, such as corrective actions and/or penalties.

Tribal Lead Agencies are encouraged to access additional guidance for their CCDF Plans through:

•

Tribal Child Care and Development Fund: Guide for New Administrators

•

CCDF Final Rule: Overview for American Indian and Alaska Native Grantees

•

Child Care and Development Fund Final Rule Tribal Fact Sheet

Additional questions should be directed to the OCC Regional Office.

1 Define CCDF Leadership and Coordination With Relevant Systems

This section provides information on how the CCDF program is administered, including the designated

Tribal Lead Agency and administrative structure. It also addresses who was consulted in the development

of the Tribal CCDF Plan and how the Tribal Lead Agency plans to coordinate CCDF services with other

entities.

1.1 Tribal CCDF Applicant

1.1.1

Tribal Applicant?

1.1.1.1 Tribe or Tribal Consortium Information:

Official name of the federally recognized Tribe as listed in the Federal Register or Tribal Consortium:

Cowlitz Indian Tribe

Name of Tribal Chair, President, or Leader: Patty Kinswa-Gaiser

Title: Chairwoman

Address: 1055 9th Ave.

City, State, ZIP Code: Longview, Washington, 98632

Telephone number: 3605778140 Ext:

Email address: pkinswagaiser@cowlitz.org

1.1.2

Tribal Consortium

Tribal Consortiums refer to a partnership between two or more Tribal governments authorized by the

governing bodies of those Tribes to allow the Tribal Consortium to apply for and receive funding on behalf

of the member Tribes.

1.1.2.1 Are you a Tribal Consortium?

[x] No (Skip to Section 1.2)

[ ] Yes

1.1.2.2 Participating Member Tribes/Alaska Native Villages

Provide a comprehensive list of the participating member Tribes/Alaska Native villages and include

demonstrations from the consortium’s participating Tribes indicating that the consortium has the

authority to seek funding on their behalf. Each consortium member must provide a demonstration

every three years for the consortium Lead Agency to include with the plan submission. The purpose of

the demonstration is to show that the member has authorized the consortium Lead Agency to act on

its behalf.

Examples of demonstrations include a Tribal Resolution, a letter signed by the current Tribal Leader,

or another official document from the Tribal/village government (98.80(c)(1-4); 98.81(b)(8)(i)).

For Alaska Native Regional Nonprofit Corporations, the list and demonstrations are for purposes of

discretionary funds only.

Confirm the consortium members:

Consortium Member

Demonstration

Letter for Each

Consortium

Member (attach

letter)

***The CARS system will prepopulate consortium members from FY 2020 child count. Tribal Lead

Agency should confirm each tribe listed is currently a member and update with any changes.

If there is any change in the consortium membership, the Tribal Lead Agency must notify OCC through

an amendment to the Plan. Any consortium member Tribe seeking to apply for its own CCDF grant

funds must first withdraw from the Tribal Consortium and contact OCC to initiate a separate

application for its own funds. OCC must receive the application on or before July 1 prior to the year in

which the Tribe is seeking CCDF program funds.

1.1.2.3 Coordinated Services on behalf of participating member Tribes/Villages

A Tribal Consortium must describe how it coordinates services on behalf of each of its participating

member Tribes/villages.

Summarize how the consortium is coordinating services (including direct services) on behalf of each

participating member (98.81(b)(8)(ii); 98.83(c)(1)).

Describe how child care services are provided to each member of a Tribe/village:

1.2 Designated Tribal Lead Agency

The Tribe or Tribal Consortium will designate an agency to represent the Tribe/consortium as the Tribal Lead

Agency. This designated agency agrees to administer the Tribal CCDF program in accordance with applicable

Federal laws and regulations and the provisions of this Plan, including the attached assurances and

certifications (658D; 658E(c)(1); 98.83(a)).

The Tribal Lead Agency can be a department or sub-agency, such as the CCDF department, human services

department, workforce development department, and in some cases, the Tribe will administer the CCDF

program.

Note: An amendment to the CCDF Tribal Plan is required in the event of a change in the designated Tribal

Lead Agency.

1.2.1

Designated Agency

1.2.1.1 Designated Agency by the Tribe or Tribal Consortium

Which agency has been designated by the Tribe or Tribal Consortium to administer the CCDF

program?

Name of Tribal Lead Agency: Cowlitz Indian Tribe

Web address for Tribal Lead Agency (if any): cowlitz.org

1.2.2

Tribal CCDF Administrator

Identify the CCDF Administrator designated by the Tribal Lead Agency, the day-to-day contact person, or

the person responsible for administering the Tribal CCDF program. If there is more than one designated

contact person with shared responsibility for administering the CCDF program, please identify the CoAdministrator/Assistant Administrator and include relevant contact information.

1.2.2.1 Contact information for the Tribal CCDF Administrator:

Name of Tribal CCDF Administrator: DeAnna Pearl

Title: Program Manager; Child Care and Development Program

Mailing address: P.O. Box 2547

Physical address (if different than mailing address): 1003 Fir St.

Phone number: 3603539559 Ext: 2528

Cell phone number: 3609578919

Email address: DPearl@cowlitz.org

1.2.2.2 Contact Information for Tribal CCDF Co-Administrator/Assistant Administrator (if applicable):

Name of Tribal CCDF Co-Administrator/Assistant Administrator: Justina Rebecca Wilson

Title: Early Learning Coach

Mailing address (if different from above): 1003 Fir St.

Physical address (if different than mailing address):

Phone number: 3603539928 Ext:

Cell phone number: 2393987392

Email address: jrwilson@cowlitz.org

1.3 Administration Through Contracts or Agreements

The Tribal Lead Agency has broad authority to administer the CCDF program through contracts or

agreements with other governmental, non-governmental, or other public or private local agencies. The

Tribal Lead Agency remains the single point of contact and retains overall responsibility for the

administration of the CCDF program (658D(b)(1)(A); 98.11(a)(3); 98.16(d)(1)). Examples of such agreements

could include:

•

A written agreement with another Tribal department to operate Tribal child care centers or to conduct

training and monitoring

•

1.3.1

A contract with a local agency to operate the Tribal Lead Agency’s child care program (including

determining family eligibility and issuing payments to child care providers or providing high-quality

activities).

Direct Administration and Operation

1.3.1.1 Administration and operation of the CCDF Program

Will the Tribal Lead Agency directly administer and operate the CCDF program (98.16(d)(1))?

This question does not apply to the demonstrations referenced in Section 1.1.2 between a consortium

and its participating/constituent member Tribes/villages.

[x] Yes, the Tribal Lead Agency will directly administer and operate all aspects of the CCDF program. Skip

to 1.4.

[ ] No, the Tribal Lead Agency will not directly administer and implement all aspects of the CCDF

program.

1.3.1.2 Names of entities that will administer and/or operate aspects of the CCDF program

List the names of those entities that will administer and/or operate aspects of the CCDF program and

describe which aspects of the CCDF program they will administer and/or operate. List and describe:

1. What processes will the Tribal Lead Agency use to monitor administrative and implementation

responsibilities performed by other agencies? Describe:

2. Optional: Include copies of the contracts or agreements as Attachment #: Document was not provided

by TLA

1.4 Consultation in the Development of the Tribal CCDF Plan

In the development of the Tribal CCDF Plan, the Tribal Lead Agency is required to consult with

representatives of general purpose local/ Tribal government (658D(b)(2); 98.10(c); 98.14(b)). Tribal Lead

Agencies are also required to conduct a public hearing to provide an opportunity to comment on the

provision of the child care services under the CCDF Plan (98.14(c)). For the purposes of developing this Plan,

consultation involves meeting with, or obtaining input from, appropriate representatives of the Tribal

community.

1.4.1

Consultation and Representation

1.4.1.1 Entities Consulted by Tribal Lead Agency

Describe how the Tribal Lead Agency consulted with representatives of general purpose local and

Tribal governments, and any other entities in the development of this plan. Describe: Tribal Lead

Agency met with members of our tribal government, the head of our safety department, our grant

writers, attorneys, accounting specialists, and our tribal manager to assist in making necessary

decisions in the grant and assisting with the grant writing process.

1.4.2

Public Hearings

Tribal Lead Agencies are required to conduct a public hearing to provide those interested with an

opportunity to comment on the provision of child care services under the CCDF Plan (658D(b)(1)(C);

98.14(c)(1-3); 98.16(e)).

The Tribal Lead Agency must conduct at least one public hearing prior to the submission of the Tribal

CCDF Plan but no earlier than January 1, 2022. The Tribal Lead Agency must provide a notice of the

hearing throughout the Tribe’s service area. This notice must be provided no later than 20 days prior to

the date of the hearing. Tribal Lead Agencies must make the contents of the Plan available to the public in

advance of the hearing.

Describe the Tribal Lead Agency’s public hearing process by responding to the questions below:

1.4.2.1 Date(s) of public hearing notice(s) (at least 20 calendar days prior to the public hearing): 9/26/2022

1.4.2.2 Date(s) of public hearing(s) (no earlier than January 1, 2022): 10/20/2022

1.4.2.3 Location(s)/ of the public hearing(s), including virtual: 253 Kalama River Rd. Kalama, WA 98625

1.4.2.4 How was the public notified of the public hearing? Check only those that apply:

[ ] Family newsletter

[x] Tribal/local media

[ ] Internet—provide website(s):

[x] Social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter)

[ ] Posting on community bulletin board or some other message board

[x] Other. Describe: Emailed all program parents and contracted providers

1.4.2.5 Input from the public hearing(s) in the development of the final Plan.

Describe how the input from the public hearing(s) was taken into consideration in the development

of the final Plan:

[ ] No input was received

[x] Input was incorporated into the plan in the following ways: Ideas for support and trainings for

providers was recived and noted. We will look into providing these trainings with this new grant cycle.

Examples of wanted trainings included: Trauma informed care, behavior supports, cultural education.

[ ] Other. Describe:

1.4.2.6 Content of the Plan available to the service area prior to the public hearing.

How was the content of the Plan made available throughout the service area prior to the public

hearing? Check only those that apply:

[x] Tribal offices (including CCDF offices)

[ ] Internet. Provide website(s):

[ ] Email

[ ] Other. Describe:

1.4.3

Plan Availability to the Public

Tribal Lead Agencies with small allocations are not required to make the final CCDF Plan or any

subsequent Plans available to the public but have the flexibility to describe if applicable.

Tribal Lead Agencies with large and medium allocations should post their Plan and Plan amendments on a

website to the extent practicable.

1.4.3.1 Final CCDF Plan and Plan Amendments available to the public.

Describe how the Tribal Lead Agency makes the final CCDF Plan and any subsequent Plan

Amendments available to the public to the extent practicable: Tribal Lead Agency's Updated and

approved plans are posted on Cowlitz.org.

1.5 Indian Child and Indian Reservation or Service Area (AUTO FILLED FROM APPENDIX 1 SUBMISSION)

Identify which Indian child(ren) are counted in the Tribal Lead Agency’s child count (98.81(b)(2)(i)).

1.5.1

Indian Child

Programs and activities are to be carried out for the benefit of Indian children.

Although Tribal Lead Agencies have some flexibility in defining “Indian Child,” the definition must be

limited to children from federally recognized Indian Tribes, consistent with the CCDBG Act’s definition of

Indian Tribe (98.2).

This information could include children who are Tribal members, whose membership is pending, who are

eligible for membership, and/or are children/descendants of members and could also include adopted

children, foster children, step-children, etc.

1.5.1.1 The Tribal Lead Agency defines an “Indian child” as: A minor child who are tribal members, whose

membership is pending, who are eligible for membership, and/or are the child or grandchild, adopted

child, step child, or foster child of an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe.

1.5.2

Indian Reservation or Service Area

Programs and activities are to be carried out for the benefit of Indian children living on or near the Indian

reservation or service area. The service area must be within reasonably close geographic proximity to the

borders of a Tribe’s reservation (except for Tribes in Alaska, California, and Oklahoma). Tribes that do not

have reservations must establish service areas within reasonably close geographic proximity to the area

where the Tribe’s population resides.

There is an expectation that the Tribal Lead Agency will be able to provide services to families throughout

the service area. ACF will not approve an entire state as a Tribe’s service area. Tribal Lead Agencies can

limit services within the reservation boundaries or go beyond the reservation boundaries.

If a Tribal Lead Agency establishes a different service area than the borders of the Tribe’s reservation or

existing service area for CCDF purposes, it must be within reasonably close geographic proximity

(658O(c)(2)(B); 98.80(e); 98.81(b)(2)(ii); 98.81(b)(3)(ii); 98.83(b)); for example, “Permanent residence is

within the reservation boundaries; however, the participant is temporarily attending school outside of the

reservation area,” or “[the participant] resides within 20 miles of the reservation boundaries.”

1.5.2.1 The Tribal Lead Agency defines the Reservation/Service Area as: Cowlitz, Clark, and Skamania Counties

in WA state. We share Lewis County with Chehalis Tribe 50/50 and are aligning with Cowlitz existing

HHS service area and adding Columbia County in Oregon. Chehalis and Grand Ronde Tribes have been

advised of our intentions to serve those areas and are in agreement.

1.5.2.2 Optional: Attach a clearly labeled map of the service

Optional: In addition to the description above, a clearly labeled map of the service area is attached.

Attachment #: Document was not provided by TLA

1.6 Child Count

For the purposes of determining a Tribe/Tribal organization’s annual CCDF program funding level, the

Tribal Lead Agency is required to conduct and submit a triennial child count of children younger than age

13, as defined in 98.81(b)(2)(i). The Child Count Declaration will be submitted every 3 years with the

triennial Plan. For the FY 2023 – FY 2025 Plan period, the child count must be submitted by July 1, 2022.

For new Tribal Lead Agencies entering outside the Plan cycle, the child count will be submitted with their

CCDF Plan.

The Tribal child count will be effective from October 1, 2022, to September 30, 2025, and will be valid for

3 years. If the consortium gains or loses one of its member organizations, then the adjustments will be

made accordingly.

The Tribal Lead Agency may not count any children who are included in the child count of another CCDF

Tribal Lead Agency. The Tribal Lead Agency is required to confer with all other CCDF Tribal Lead Agencies

that have overlapping or neighboring service areas (98.61(c); 98.62(c); 98.80(b(1); 98.81 (b)(4)).

The child count submitted is not reflective of the number of children who receive direct services. Instead,

the child count gives the number of potentially eligible children who meet the Tribal Lead Agency’s

definition of Indian Child, and who reside in the designated service area.

Tribes that operate under an approved P.L. 102-477 Plan shall submit their triennial child counts of

children younger than age 13 by July 1, 2022. The child counts will be effective from October 1, 2022,

through September 30, 2025. Complete the “Child Count Declaration” at Appendix 1-A. The form also

requests P.L. 102-477 Tribes that would like to make a request for reallotted Tribal discretionary funds to

indicate that by checking “yes” or “no” if these funds become available.

1.6.1

Adjacent and Overlapping Service Areas

1.6.1.1 Adjacent and Overlapping Service Area(s) of other Tribal Lead Agencies

Is the service area (as defined in 1.5.2) adjacent to, or overlapping with, the service area(s) of any

other Tribal Lead Agencies?

[ ] No

[x] Yes

[x] Identify those other Tribal Lead Agencies with neighboring or overlapping service areas.

Describe: We overlap with Chehalis Tribe in Lewis County, Washington, and we neighbor with

Grand Ronde in Columbia County, Oregon.

[x] Describe the Tribal Lead Agency’s process for ensuring unduplicated child counts for this

overlapping service area: We share Lewis County in WA with Chehalis and split the child count

50/50. We talked with Grand Ronde to make sure that they were not serving or claiming

Columbia County in Oregon.

1.6.2

Child Count Declaration

1.6.2.1 Complete the “Child Count Declaration” at Appendix 1.

A Tribal Consortium must submit an individual Child Count Declaration, signed by an individual authorized

to act for the Tribe, for each participating Tribe; a summary listing the name of each participating Tribe;

each participating Tribe’s individual child count; and the total child count for the entire consortium.

A “Child Count Declaration” is attached at Appendix 1.

1.7 Types of CCDF Providers

The Final Rule established three categories of care:

• Center-based child care: Group care provided in a facility outside of the child’s or provider’s home

• Family child care: Care provided in a private residence other than the child’s residence

• In-home child care: Care provided in the child’s home

Tribal Lead Agencies have flexibility in the types of child care providers that offer direct care to families and

children. For example, a Tribal Lead Agency may provide direct child care services through a Tribally Operated

Center, or a Tribal Lead Agency with a small allocation may not offer direct services at all. In addition, Tribal

Lead Agencies may choose to regulate child care providers through a state licensing agency rather than a

Tribal agency.

1.7.1

Providers That Offer Direct Services

1.7.1.1 Types of providers offering direct services to families and children.

Select the types of providers that offer services directly to families and children in the Tribal CCDF

Program. The following list includes some variation in describing the types of direct service providers in

the Tribal CCDF program, but additional sections will refer to the three categories of care. Check only

those that apply:

[ ] Tribally Operated Center(s)

[ ] Tribally regulated (or licensed) center-based providers (not operated by the Tribal Lead Agency)

[ ] Tribally regulated (or licensed) family child care providers

[x] State-licensed center-based providers

[x] State-licensed family child care providers

[ ] License-exempt center-based providers

[ ] License-exempt family child care providers

[x] Relative care providers over age 18

[x] In-home providers (care in the child’s home)

[ ] This Tribal Lead Agency does not offer direct services to families through the Tribal CCDF Program.

(Only Tribal Lead Agencies with small allocations can opt to not offer direct services.)

1.8 Coordination of Services

The Tribal Lead Agency is required to coordinate services with other Tribal, Federal, state, and/or local child

care and early childhood development programs with agencies responsible for public health, employment

services/workforce development, public education, the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program,

etc. (658D(b)(1)(D); 98.14(a)(1)(i-xiv); 98.14(a)(4)).

1.8.1

Coordination of the delivery of CCDF services with state or Tribal agencies or entities.

Tribal Lead Agencies must demonstrate in the Plan how they encourage partnerships among Tribal

agencies, other public agencies, other Tribes and Tribal organizations, private entities, and

community-based organizations to leverage existing service delivery systems, and to increase the

supply and quality of child care and development services.

1.8.1.1 Coordination of the delivery of CCDF services with state or Tribal agencies or entities.

Describe the ways that the Tribal Lead Agency coordinates the delivery of CCDF services with the

following state, and if applicable, Tribal agencies or entities, and the results of those coordination

efforts (e.g., shared goals/purposes for coordination, the process for coordinating). Check and

describe only those that apply:

[x] Public health, including the agency responsible for immunizations. Description/Results: We require

immunization records for all children enrolled in our program to insure they are getting the

immunizations that they need. Staff will refer children in need of immunizations to the Cowlitz Tribe

Health Clinic for immunizations if needed.

Staff coordinates with Community Health Partners, Family Health Center and Apple Health

Coordinators in our service area to assist them in identifying Native American families and informing

them of our program and other programs offered by the Cowlitz Tribe.

[x] Employment services/workforce development. Description/Results: We partner with the Cowlitz

Tribe Vocational Rehabilitation program and Worksource to assist their clients with child care while

they engage in services and look for employment.

Staff coordinates with Community Action Plan's Community Jobs Coordinator, Life Works,

Americorps, and Goodwill within our service area to assist them in identifying Native American

families and informing them of our program and other programs offered by the Cowlitz Tribe.

[x] Public education. Description/Results: Staff coordinates with service area School Districts to assist

them in identifying Native American families and informing them of our program and other programs

offered by the Cowlitz Tribe.

[x] Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. Description/Results: Staff coordinates with DCFY

to refer families who may qualify for TANF services and works with the regional offices to make sure

they are aware of the services we offer.

[x] Child care licensing. Description/Results: Staff coordinates with state licensing divisions to monitor

licensed child care centers and coordinate quality improvement efforts.

[x] Head Start. Description/Results: Staff coordinates with Head Start Agencies within our service area

to assist them in identifying Native American families and informing them of our program and other

programs offered by the Cowlitz Tribe.

[x] State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care or similar coordinating body.

Description/Results: Staff sit on the boards of service area, state, and other tribal Early Learning

Boards and Coalitions.

[x] Statewide afterschool network or other coordinating entity for out-of-school time care (if

applicable). Description/Results: Staff will coordinate with afterschool and out-of-school time care to

assist in opening access to families.

[ ] Emergency management and response. Description/Results:

[x] Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and other relevant nutrition programs.

Description/Results: Coordinate with Cowlitz nutrition and garden program to assist families with

nutrition and food sovereignty.

[x] McKinney-Vento state coordinators for homeless education and other agencies providing services

for children experiencing homelessness and, to the extent practicable, local McKinney-Vento liaisons.

Description/Results: Staff coordinates with area school district McKinney-Vento liaisons, homeless

coalitions, and shelters to make sure they are aware of services offered by Cowlitz Tribe.

[x] Agencies responsible for Medicaid and the State Children’s Health Insurance Program.

Description/Results: Staff coordinates with Community Health Partners, Family Health Center and

Apple Health Coordinators in our service area to assist them in identifying Native American families

and informing them of our program and other programs offered by the Cowlitz Tribe.

[x] Mental health services. Description/Results: Staff coordinates with mental health agencies in our

service area to assist them in identifying Native American families and informing them of our

program and other programs offered by the Cowlitz Tribe. As well as coordinating with Cowlitz

Tribe's Mental Health program to provide services and supports to families and providers.

[x] Child care resource and referral agencies, child care consumer education organizations, and

providers of early childhood education training and professional development. Description/Results:

Staff uses Child Care Aware to assist parents in finding quality child care. We coordinate with area

early childhood education organizations, DCYF and Educational Service Districts to provide continued

education to staff, parents, and child care providers.

[ ] Other agencies or entities with which the Tribal Lead Agency coordinates. Description/Results:

1.8.2

Underserved Populations

In determining the Tribal community’s child care needs, Tribal Lead Agencies must include underserved

populations, such as infants and toddlers, families experiencing homelessness, children with special

needs, and children in need of non-traditional hours of care.

1.8.2.1 Underserved populations in determining the Tribal community’s child care needs.

Which underserved populations are included in determining the Tribal community’s child care needs?

Check all that apply:

[x] Infants and toddlers

[x] Families experiencing homelessness

[x] Children with special needs

[x] Children in need of non-traditional hours of care

[x] Other. Describe: Other vulnerable populations such as teen parents, foster parents, and those

involved with DCYF.

1.9 Program Integrity and Accountability

The Tribal Lead Agency, as the single point of contact for the administration of the Tribal CCDF program, is

responsible for making sure that policies and procedures are in place to monitor programs and services;

ensuring compliance with the rules of the program; and providing oversight in the expenditure of all funds,

including identifying improper payments and undertaking fraud prevention and recovery efforts (98.11(b);

98.60(i); 98.66; 98.67; 98.68).

1.9.1

Identify Improper Payments

Tribal Lead Agencies are required to describe effective internal controls to identify improper payments

through program policies and fiscal procedures.

1.9.1.1 How does the Tribal Lead Agency prevent and identify improper payments?

How does the Tribal Lead Agency prevent and identify improper payments? Check only those that

apply:

[x] Train staff on CCDF policies and regulations.

[x] Conduct supervisory staff reviews or quality assurance reviews.

[x] Share data with other programs (e.g., state CCDF program, Tribal or state TANF program, Head

Start, CACFP, other Tribal offices).

[x] Run system reports that flag errors.

[x] Review enrollment documents and attendance or billing records.

[x] Review provider records.

[x] Perform ongoing monitoring and assessment of policy implementation.

[ ] Other. Describe:

1.9.1.2 Investigating and collecting improper payments resulting from fraud

The Tribal Lead Agency is required to recover improper payments that are the result of fraud. How

does the Tribal Lead Agency investigate and collect improper payments resulting from fraud? Check

only those that apply:

[x] Coordinate with and refer to other Tribal, state, or Federal agencies (e.g., Tribal Council, law

enforcement).

[ ] Require recovery if the improper payment exceeds a specific dollar amount. Identify the

minimum dollar amount: $

[x] Recover through repayment plans.

[x] Reduce payments in subsequent months.

[x] Recover through payroll deductions (i.e., for CCDF clients, providers, and staff employed by the

Tribe).

[ ] Other. Describe:

1.9.1.3 Recovering improper payments from unintentional errors/program violations.

The Tribal Lead Agency has the flexibility to recover improper payments that are the result of

unintentional errors/program violations. Does the Tribal Lead Agency choose to investigate and

collect improper payments resulting from unintentional errors/program violations?

[ ] No.

[x] Yes. How will the Tribal Lead Agency investigate and collect improper payments resulting from

unintentional errors/program violations? Check only those that apply:

[ ] Coordinate with and refer to other Tribal, state, or Federal agencies (e.g., Tribal Council, law

enforcement).

[ ] Require recovery if the improper payment exceeds a specific dollar amount. Identify the

minimum dollar amount: $

[x] Recover through repayment plans.

[ ] Reduce payments in subsequent months.

[ ] Recover through payroll deductions (for CCDF clients, providers, and staff employed by the

Tribe).

[ ] Other. Describe:

1.10 Disaster Preparedness and Response Plan

In past disasters, and in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the provision of

emergency child care services, and the process of rebuilding and restoring the child care infrastructure has

emerged as an essential service. Tribal Lead Agencies are required to establish a Child Care Disaster Plan for

the Tribal Service Area (658E(c)(2)(U); 98.16(aa)). They must describe how they will address the needs of

children, including the need for safe child care before, during, and after a state of emergency declared by the

Governor or Tribal Chief Executive or a major disaster or emergency (as defined by Section 102 of the Robert

T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5122).

1.10.1 Child Care Disaster Plan Coordination

1.10.1.1 Child Care Disaster Plan developed in collaboration with appropriate stakeholders.

Describe how the Child Care Disaster Plan was developed in collaboration with the appropriate

stakeholders, which may include other programs within the Tribal Lead Agency’s governance

structure or any other stakeholders identified by the Tribal Lead Agency: We met with Cowlitz Tribe's

Public Safety officer to develop a plan and coordination.

1.10.2 Disaster Plan Guidelines for Child Care Subsidies and Child Care Services

1.10.2.1 Child Care Disaster Plan with guidelines for child care subsidies/services.

Describe how the Child Care Disaster Plan includes the Tribal Lead Agency’s guidelines for the

continuation of child care subsidies and child care services, which may include the provision of

emergency and temporary child care services during a disaster, and temporary operating standards

for child care after a disaster: Staff collects emergency and disaster plans for all providers. Staff

encourages all parents to have an emergency relative provider in place who is preauthorized by CCDP

to provide care should an emergency occur. During a government-enacted State of Emergency, staff

will work with parents and providers to assist them in maintaining and continuing care as needed and

on a case-by-case basis. We support providers by paying based on enrollment instead of attendance

and support parents by temporarily suspending copayments as needed, authorized, and/or on a caseby-case basis. Additional support can include but is not limited to providing financial support in the

way of supplies (such as sanitation as PPE supplies) and/or mini-grants. Temporarily exempting

relative providers from some or all health and safety requirements should those requirements

become unavailable due to the disaster (such as fingerprinting being unavailable during the COVID-19

State of Emergency). Additionally, should our administrative offices close, all staff is set up to be fully

mobile as needed for the continuance of care, family intake, and payment processes.

1.10.3 Post-Disaster Recovery

1.10.3.1 Procedures for coordination of post-disaster recovery of child care services.

Describe Tribal Lead Agency procedures for the coordination of the post-disaster recovery of child

care services: Staff will work with parents and providers to assist them in maintaining, continuing, and

re-engaging in care as needed on a case-by-case basis. Post-disaster recovery can include but is not

limited to the continued financial support of childcare providers in the way of mini-grants, sanitation

supplies, PPE, etc. As well as the continued waving of parent copayments as allowed and/or on a caseby-case basis to financially assist parents in the payment of their child care. Additionally, should our

administrative offices be closed, all staff is set up to be fully mobile as needed for continuance of care,

family intake, and payment processes.

1.10.4 Disaster Procedures

1.10.4.1 Confirmation that providers’ disaster procedures are in place.

Describe how the Tribal Lead Agency ensures that providers who receive CCDF program funds have

the following procedures in place:

•

evacuation;

relocation;

shelter-in-place;

lockdown;

communications with and reunification of families;

continuity of operations;

and accommodations for infants and toddlers, children with disabilities, and children with

chronic medical conditions (98.41(a)(1)(vii)).

(Note: The Tribal Lead Agency should also describe these requirements for CCDF providers in Section

2.1.2.7 Standards and Training Requirements for Emergency Preparedness and Response Planning.)

Staff collects and maintains records (updating annually at a minimum) of the health, safety, and

disaster plans for all childcare providers. Should a provider not have any required record in place or

the record be found to be lacking key procedures, staff will work with the provider individually to

assist them with meeting minimum expectations. Minimum expectations include having a written and

known plan for evacuations, relocation, shelter-in-place, lockdown/active shooter, reunification,

continuity of operations and/or care, and ensuring that these procedures account for the care of

infants and toddlers as well as children with disabilities and/or chronic medical conditions if

applicable. Further, resources and best practices are shared with providers regularly via social media

and email.

1.10.5 Emergency Preparedness Training

1.10.5.1 Provider emergency preparedness training and practice drills.

Describe how the Tribal Lead Agency requires child care staff and volunteers (for providers who

receive CCDF program funds) to complete emergency preparedness training and practice drill

procedures. (Note: The Tribal Lead Agency should also describe these requirements for CCDF

providers in Section 2.1.2.7 Standards and Training Requirements for Emergency Preparedness and

Response Planning.) Tribal Lead Agency requires a copy of all program's Emergency/Disaster Plans.

Tribal Lead Agency's Staff checks the fire and safety drills documents and training records at all health

and safety inspections. If the drill records are insufficient, staff will put the provider on a corrective

action plan and monitor for compliance. We follow the

The Washington Administrative Code (WAC) that discusses emergency preparedness training and

practice drills for daycare centers is WAC 110-300-0150. This regulation requires that all licensed child

care providers in the state of Washington must have written emergency plans in place and conduct

regular emergency drills to ensure the safety of children in their care.

The regulation outlines explicitly the requirements for emergency plans, which include:

Identification of potential emergency situations, such as natural disasters, medical emergencies, and

security threats

Procedures for responding to emergencies, including evacuation plans, communication plans, and

procedures for contacting emergency services

Protocols for staff and volunteer training and practice drills

In addition to the written emergency plan, WAC 110-300-0150 requires child care providers to

conduct regular emergency drills to ensure that all staff and volunteers are familiar with the

emergency procedures and can respond quickly and appropriately in the event of an emergency. The

regulation requires that child care providers conduct at least six drills per year, including at least two

fire drills, two earthquake drills, and two drills for other types of emergencies.

2 Establish Standards and Monitoring Processes To Ensure the Health and Safety of

Child Care Settings

Health and safety requirements apply to all Tribes regardless of allocation size and apply to all child care

providers who receive CCDF program funds, including providers who only receive quality funds. All Tribal

Lead Agencies must certify that there are health and safety requirements applicable to providers serving

CCDF children in effect. These health and safety requirements must be appropriate to the provider setting

(i.e., center-based child care including Tribally Operated Centers), family child care, or in-home child care)

and age of the children served, must include specific topics and training on those topics, and are subject

to monitoring and enforcement procedures to ensure that providers are complying with the

requirements.

This section covers health and safety and comprehensive background checks requirements, including:

• Health and safety standards (98.41(a))

• Health and safety training (98.44(b))

• Monitoring and enforcement procedures to ensure that child care providers comply with health and

safety requirements (98.16(n))

• Exemptions made for relative care providers over age 18 (98.16(l))

• Group size limits; child/staff ratios; and required qualifications for caregivers, teachers, and directors

(98.16(m))

• Comprehensive background check requirements (98.16(o))

2.1 Overview of Health and Safety Standards and Monitoring

2.1.1

Overview of health and safety standards and monitoring.

Use the tables below to describe the health and safety standards used by the Tribal Lead Agency for

each provider type, and the agency responsible for monitoring and enforcing the health and safety

standards.

Use the tables below to describe the health and safety standards and monitoring agency for each

category of care offered.

•

If the Tribal Lead Agency has developed its own standards (even if those standards were adapted

from other sources, such as Caring for Our Children: Basics and/or Minimum Health and Safety

Standards: A Guide for American Indian and Alaskan Native Child Care and Development Fund

Grantees or state licensing standards), check “Tribal Standards.”

•

If the Tribal Lead Agency requires providers to meet standards established by a state agency (such

as state licensing agency or state department of education), check “State Standards.”

•

If the Tribal Lead Agency requires providers to meet standards from more than one source (e.g.,

state licensing standards for off-reservation providers and tribally developed standards for

providers on the reservation), check “Tribal Standards,” “State Standards,” and “Other Standards

or Combination of Standards ” and describe which standards apply to which providers.

•

If the Tribal Lead Agency requires providers to meet standards from a source not listed in the

table (such as Indian Health Service, the Child and Adult Care Food Program, Caring for Our

Children: Basics, and Caring for Our Children), then check “Other Standards or Combination of

Standards” and describe the standards and the source(s) of the standards.

•

If monitoring and inspection is conducted by an entity or agency other than the Tribal Lead

Agency, such as the state licensing agency or the Indian Health Service, please indicate who

conducts the visits and how the Tribal Lead Agency obtains the results of the monitoring. In cases

where a combination of monitors/inspectors are used, check those that apply and provide a

description.

2.1.1.1 Health and Safety Standards Used by the Tribal Lead Agency

Note: Provider Categories are enabled based on the Provider Types specified in 1.7.1 Providers that

Offer Direct Services.

Provider Categories

Center-Based Child Care

[ ] Tribal Standards

[x] State Standards

State(s): WA, OR

[ ] Head Start/Early Head Start Standards

[ ] Other Standards or Combination of Standards (e.g., describe how more than one set of

standards selected above are combined)

Describe:

Family Child Care

[ ] Tribal Standards

[x] State Standards

State(s): WA, OR

[ ] Head Start/Early Head Start Standards

[ ] Other Standards or Combination of Standards (e.g., describe how more than one set of

standards selected above are combined)

Describe:

In-Home Care (in the child’s home)

[x] Tribal Standards

[ ] State Standards

State(s):

[ ] Head Start/Early Head Start Standards

[ ] Other Standards or Combination of Standards (e.g., describe how more than one set of

standards selected above are combined)

Describe:

2.1.1.2 Health and Safety Monitoring Used by the Tribal Lead Agency

Note: Provider Categories are enabled based on the Provider Types specified in 1.7.1 Providers that

Offer Direct Services.

Provider Categories

Center-Based Child Care

[ ] Tribal Monitoring

Entity:

[x] State Monitoring

State(s): WA, OR

[ ] Indian Health Services

[ ] Other Monitoring (e.g., describe how more than one monitoring agencies selected above are

combined)

Describe:

Family Child Care

[ ] Tribal Monitoring

Entity:

[x] State Monitoring

State(s): WA, OR

[ ] Indian Health Services

[ ] Other Monitoring (e.g., describe how more than one monitoring agencies selected above are

combined)

Describe:

In-Home Care (in the child’s home)

[x] Tribal Monitoring

Entity: We are doing in-home childcare in the state of Washington. Cowlitz Child Care

and Development Program staff will provide In-Home childcare providers with two health and safety

inspections per year: one announced and one unannounced. We will be using the "Caring for Our

Children Basics" and "Developing Child Care Health and Safety Monitoring and Enforcement Systems: A

Guide for Tribal Lead Agencies" to create our own tribal monitoring.

[ ] State Monitoring

State(s):

[ ] Indian Health Services

[ ] Other Monitoring (e.g., describe how more than one monitoring agencies selected above are

combined)

Describe:

2.1.2

Tribal Lead Agencies that select only “state standards” and “state monitoring”

Tribal CCDF programs that only use state-licensed providers for all provider types can skip detailed

descriptions of the health and safety standards, training requirements, the health and safety monitoring,

and enforcement policies and practices. Skip to 2.4.

2.1.2.1 Optional: Tribal Lead Agencies that rely only on state health and safety standards and monitoring to

regulate all provider types may provide web links to relevant state agency policies.

https://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=110-300&full=true;

https://oregonearlylearning.com/childcare-rules/

2.2 Health and Safety Standards and Training Requirements for CCDF Providers

Tribal Lead Agencies are required to establish health and safety standards for all types of child care

programs (i.e., center-based child care, including Tribally Operated Centers, family child care, or in-home

child care) serving children receiving CCDF assistance, relating to the topics listed below, as appropriate to

the provider setting and age of the children served (98.41(a)). This requirement is applicable to all child

care providers receiving CCDF program funds, including those providers who are receiving only CCDF

quality dollars through the Tribal Lead Agency. The only exception to this requirement is for providers

over age 18 who are caring for their own relatives; Tribal Lead Agencies have the option to exempt

relative care providers over age 18 from the health and safety requirements (defined in CCDF regulations

as grandparents, great-grandparents, siblings if living in a separate residence, aunts, and uncles

(98.42(c))). This exemption applies only if the individual cares for relative children only. Exemptions for

relative providers’ standards and training requirements will be addressed in section 2.3.

Tribal Lead Agencies are required to have minimum pre-service and/or orientation training requirements

(to be completed within 3 months) for caregivers, teachers, and directors, as appropriate to the provider

setting and the age of children served, that address the health and safety requirements described in 2.1.2

and 2.1.3 and child development.

Tribal Lead Agencies must also have ongoing training requirements on the health and safety topics for

caregivers, teachers, and directors of children receiving CCDF program funds (658E(c)(2)(I)(i);

98.44(b)(1)(iii)). The Tribal Lead Agency must describe its requirements for pre-service/orientation

training and ongoing training.

Tribal Lead Agencies have flexibility in determining the number of training hours to require, but they may

consult Caring for Our Children: Basics and/or Minimum Health and Safety Standards: A Guide for

American Indian and Alaskan Native Child Care and Development Fund Grantees for best practices and

recommended guidelines to address these training requirements.

2.2.1

Health and Safety Standards

Certify by describing how the following health and safety standards and ongoing training requirements for

programs serving children receiving CCDF assistance are defined and established on the required topics

(98.16(l)).

Note: Monitoring and enforcement will be addressed in subsection 2.2.

For each of the required health and safety topics, Tribal Lead Agencies must provide their definition and

any variations based on the category of care (i.e., center-based child care, including Tribally Operated

Centers, family child care, or in-home child care) and the ages of children served.

For example, Tribal Lead Agencies need to ensure that providers follow their safe-sleep practices for each

age group in a center-based child care program. As such, Tribal Lead Agencies need to set standards

around infant sleep practices (e.g., activities that prevent sudden infant death syndrome [SIDS]) and to

ensure that providers who care for infants are trained on and met these standards. Likewise, Tribal Lead

Agencies would set different safe-sleep standards for children of different ages (e.g., no safe-sleep

practices for school-age children) and would ensure that providers who cared for children of other ages

were aware of and met those standards.

2.2.1.1 Prevention (including immunizations) and control of infectious diseases.

Standard(s): Provide a brief summary of how this standard is defined. The description should identify

the practices that must be implemented by child care programs. Include any variations based on the

category of care or ages of the children served: Center:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

Family Home Childcare:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

In-Home Care:

The Tribal lead agency will be completing its own tribal alternative monitoring process. The Tribal lead

agency will be referencing both "Caring for Our Children Basics" and "Developing Child Care Health and

Safety Monitoring and Enforcement Systems: A Guide for Tribal Lead Agencies" publications.

Pre-Service and Orientation Training:

To demonstrate compliance, certify by checking below how the Tribal Lead Agency requires this training

topic be completed by providers during either pre-service or during an orientation period within 3

months of hire. Include any variations based on the category of care or ages of the children served.

[x] Pre-service

[ ] Orientation within 3 months of hire

2.2.1.2 Prevention of SIDS and the use of safe-sleep practices.

1. Standard(s): Provide a brief summary of how this standard is defined. The description should identify

the practices that must be implemented by child care programs. Include any variations based on the

category of care or ages of the children served: Center:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

Family Home Childcare:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

In-Home Care:

The Tribal lead agency will be completing its own tribal alternative monitoring process. The Tribal lead

agency will be referencing both "Caring for Our Children Basics" and "Developing Child Care Health and

Safety Monitoring and Enforcement Systems: A Guide for Tribal Lead Agencies" publications.

2. Pre-Service and Orientation Training:

To demonstrate compliance, certify by checking below how the Tribal Lead Agency requires this training

topic be completed by providers during either pre-service or during an orientation period within 3

months of hire. Include any variations based on the category of care, or ages of the children served.

[x] Pre-service

[ ] Orientation within 3 months of hire

2.2.1.3 Administration of medication, consistent with standards for parental control.

1. Standard(s): Provide a brief summary of how this standard is defined. The description should identify

the practices that must be implemented by child care programs. Include any variations based on the

category of care or ages of the children served: Center:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

Family Home Childcare:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

In-Home Care:

The Tribal lead agency will be completing their own tribal alternative monitoring process. The Tribal

lead agency will be referencing both "Caring for Our Children Basics" and "Developing Child Care Health

and Safety Monitoring and Enforcement Systems: A Guide for Tribal Lead Agencies" publications.

2. Pre-Service and Orientation Training:

To demonstrate compliance, certify by checking below how the Tribal Lead Agency requires this training

topic be completed by providers during either pre-service or during an orientation period within 3

months of hire. Include any variations based on the category of care or ages of the children served.

[x] Pre-service

[ ] Orientation within 3 months of hire

2.2.1.4 Prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions.

1. Standard(s): Provide a brief summary of how this standard is defined. The description should identify

the practices that must be implemented by child care programs. Include any variations based on the

category of care or ages of the children served: Center:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

Family Home Childcare:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

In-Home Care:

The Tribal lead agency will be completing its own tribal alternative monitoring process. The Tribal lead

agency will be referencing both "Caring for Our Children Basics" and "Developing Child Care Health and

Safety Monitoring and Enforcement Systems: A Guide for Tribal Lead Agencies" publications.

2. Pre-Service and Orientation Training:

To demonstrate compliance, certify by checking below how the Tribal Lead Agency requires this training

topic be completed by providers during either pre-service or during an orientation period within 3

months of hire. Include any variations based on the category of care, or ages of the children served.

[x] Pre-service

[ ] Orientation within 3 months of hire

2.2.1.5 Safety of building and physical premises.

Safety of building and physical premises, including the identification of and protection from hazards

that can cause bodily injury, such as electrical hazards, bodies of water, and vehicular traffic

1. Standard(s): Provide a brief summary of how this standard is defined. The description should identify

the practices that must be implemented by child care programs. Include any variations based on the

category of care, or ages of the children served: Center:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

Family Home Childcare:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

In-Home Care:

The Tribal lead agency will be completing its own tribal alternative monitoring process. The Tribal lead

agency will be referencing both "Caring for Our Children Basics" and "Developing Child Care Health and

Safety Monitoring and Enforcement Systems: A Guide for Tribal Lead Agencies" publications.

2. Pre-Service and Orientation Training:

To demonstrate compliance, certify by checking below how the Tribal Lead Agency requires this training

topic be completed by providers during either pre-service or during an orientation period within 3

months of hire. Include any variations based on the category of care, or ages of the children served.

[x] Pre-service

[ ] Orientation within 3 months of hire

2.2.1.6 Prevention of shaken baby syndrome, abusive head trauma, and child maltreatment.

1. Standard(s): Provide a brief summary of how this standard is defined. The description should identify

the practices that must be implemented by child care programs. Include any variations based on the

category of care or ages of the children served: Center:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

Family Home Childcare:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

In-Home Care:

The Tribal lead agency will be completing its own tribal alternative monitoring process. The Tribal lead

agency will be referencing both "Caring for Our Children Basics" and "Developing Child Care Health and

Safety Monitoring and Enforcement Systems: A Guide for Tribal Lead Agencies" publications.

2. Pre-Service and Orientation Training:

To demonstrate compliance, certify by checking below how the Tribal Lead Agency requires this training

topic be completed by providers during either pre-service or during an orientation period within 3

months of hire. Include any variations based on the category of care, or ages of the children served.

[x] Pre-service

[ ] Orientation within 3 months of hire

2.2.1.7 Emergency preparedness and response planning

Emergency preparedness and response planning resulting from a natural disaster or a human-caused

event (such as violence at a child care facility), within the meaning of those terms under section

602(a)(1-2) of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C.

5195a(a)(1-2)).

1. Standard(s): Provide a brief summary of how this standard is defined. The description should identify

the practices that must be implemented by child care programs. Include any variations based on the

category of care, or ages of the children served: Center:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

Family Home Childcare:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

In-Home Care:

The Tribal lead agency will be completing its own tribal alternative monitoring process. The Tribal lead

agency will be referencing both "Caring for Our Children Basics" and "Developing Child Care Health and

Safety Monitoring and Enforcement Systems: A Guide for Tribal Lead Agencies" publications.

2. Pre-Service and Orientation Training:

To demonstrate compliance, certify by checking below how the Tribal Lead Agency requires this training

topic be completed by providers during either pre-service or during an orientation period within 3

months of hire. Include any variations based on the category of care, or ages of the children served.

[x] Pre-service

[ ] Orientation within 3 months of hire

2.2.1.8 Handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of biocontaminants.

1. Standard(s): Provide a brief summary of how this standard is defined. The description should identify

the practices that must be implemented by child care programs. Include any variations based on the

category of care, or ages of the children served: Center:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

Family Home Childcare:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

In-Home Care:

The Tribal lead agency will be completing its own tribal alternative monitoring process. The Tribal lead

agency will be referencing both "Caring for Our Children Basics" and "Developing Child Care Health and

Safety Monitoring and Enforcement Systems: A Guide for Tribal Lead Agencies" publications.

2. Pre-Service and Orientation Training:

To demonstrate compliance, certify by checking below how the Tribal Lead Agency requires this training

topic be completed by providers during either pre-service or during an orientation period within 3

months of hire. Include any variations based on the category of care, or ages of the children served.

[x] Pre-service

[ ] Orientation within 3 months of hire

2.2.1.9 Precautions in transporting children (if applicable)

1. Standard(s): Provide a brief summary of how this standard is defined. The description should identify

the practices that must be implemented by child care programs. Include any variations based on the

category of care, or ages of the children served: Center:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

Family Home Childcare:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

In-Home Care:

The Tribal lead agency will be completing its own tribal alternative monitoring process. The Tribal lead

agency will be referencing both "Caring for Our Children Basics" and "Developing Child Care Health and

Safety Monitoring and Enforcement Systems: A Guide for Tribal Lead Agencies" publications.

2. Pre-Service and Orientation Training:

To demonstrate compliance, certify by checking below how the Tribal Lead Agency requires this training

topic be completed by providers during either pre-service or during an orientation period within 3

months of hire. Include any variations based on the category of care, or ages of the children served.

[x] Pre-service

[ ] Orientation within 3 months of hire

2.2.1.10 Pediatric first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)

1. Standard(s): Provide a brief summary of how this standard is defined. The description should identify

the practices that must be implemented by child care programs. Include any variations based on the

category of care, or ages of the children served: Center:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

Family Home Childcare:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

In-Home Care:

The Tribal lead agency will be completing its own tribal alternative monitoring process. The Tribal lead

agency will be referencing both "Caring for Our Children Basics" and "Developing Child Care Health and

Safety Monitoring and Enforcement Systems: A Guide for Tribal Lead Agencies" publications.

2. Pre-Service and Orientation Training:

To demonstrate compliance, certify by checking below how the Tribal Lead Agency requires this training

topic be completed by providers during either pre-service or during an orientation period within 3

months of hire. Include any variations based on the category of care, or ages of the children served.

[x] Pre-service

[ ] Orientation within 3 months of hire

2.2.1.11 Recognition and reporting of child abuse and neglect

1. Standard(s): Provide a brief summary of how this standard is defined. The description should identify

the practices that must be implemented by child care programs. Include any variations based on the

category of care, or ages of the children served: Center:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

Family Home Childcare:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

In-Home Care:

The Tribal lead agency will be completing its own tribal alternative monitoring process. The Tribal lead

agency will be referencing both "Caring for Our Children Basics" and "Developing Child Care Health and

Safety Monitoring and Enforcement Systems: A Guide for Tribal Lead Agencies" publications.

2. Pre-Service and Orientation Training:

To demonstrate compliance, certify by checking below how the Tribal Lead Agency requires this training

topic be completed by providers during either pre-service or during an orientation period within 3

months of hire. Include any variations based on the category of care, or ages of the children served.

[x] Pre-service

[ ] Orientation within 3 months of hire

2.2.1.12 Child Development

1. Describe how training addresses child development principles, including the major domains of

cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development and approaches to learning (98.44(b)(1)(iii)). For

all State Licensed Providers:

Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care providers set forth by each individual

governing state (Washington; Oregon).

Relative/Non-relative: The Milestone Moments from the CDC is reviewed preservice with in-home

caregivers. The Milestone Moments curriculum covers the major domains of cognitive, social,

emotional, and physical development and is created by the CDC.

Tribal Home Visiting Program: PAT

parent educators assess family needs and partner with parents to set family goals. Home visitors

provide necessary information and resources to ensure that parents are confident in the emotional,

behavioral, and physical development of their children. Each personal visit includes a focus on ParentChild Interaction, Development Centered Parenting, and Family Well-Being. Parent educators use

partnering, facilitating, and reflecting in their work with families to promote parental resilience;

knowledge of parenting and child development; and social and emotional competence of children to

strengthen protective factors.

2. Pre-Service and Orientation Training:

i. Describe any variations based on the category of care, or ages of the children served: No

Variations

ii. To demonstrate compliance, certify by checking below when the Tribal Lead Agency

requires these training topics be completed by providers during either pre-service or

during an orientation period within 3 months of hire.

[x] Pre-service

2.2.2

[ ] Orientation within 3 months of hire

Ongoing Training Requirements

2.2.2.1 Provide the number of hours of ongoing training required annually for eligible CCDF providers in the

following settings (658E(c)(2)(G)(iii)).

1. Center-Based Child Care Providers (e.g., Tribally Operated Centers): 10

2. Family Child Care: 10

3. In-Home Child Care (care in the child’s home): 0

2.2.2.2 Describe any variations based on the ages of the children served: The state of Oregon requires 15

continued training hours for licensed centers and family home childcare.

No Variations for Licensed Providers in Washington and Oregon.

2.2.2.3 How do providers receive updated information and/or ongoing training regarding the standard(s)?

This description should include methods to ensure that providers are able to maintain and update the

health and safety practices as described in the standards above. Include any variations based on the

category of care, or ages of the children served: Licensed Centers are following state guidelines from

their respective states. Center-based and family childcare providers report annual staff training hours

to CCDP. Staff will then record and save on a secure database.

In-home providers receive 5 hours of training annually from CCDP staff which is recorded and saved

on a secure database. Updates and optional training are emailed and posted on social media to all

providers.

2.2.3

Optional Standards

The Tribal Lead Agency may also establish standards on optional health and safety topics that reflect the

needs of the community served by the Tribal Lead Agency. These optional standards can include those

related to nutrition, access to physical activity, care for children with special needs, and any other topic

determined to be relevant by the Tribal Lead Agency (98.41(a)(1)(xii)).

2.2.3.1 Optional health and safety standards.

Does the Tribal Lead Agency include optional standards in addition to the required health and safety topics

in their health and safety standards?

[x] No. If no, skip to 2.2.4.

[ ] Yes. If yes, please complete the following questions, 2.2.3.2 to 2.2.3.5, as appropriate, on optional

health and safety standards.

2.2.3.2 Nutrition.

1. Summarize how this standard is defined, including any variations based on the category of care, or ages

of the children served:

2.2.3.3 Access to physical activity.

1. Summarize how this standard is defined, including any variations based on the category of care, or ages

of the children served:

2.2.3.4 Caring for children with special needs.

1. Summarize how this standard is defined, including any variations based on the category of care, or ages

of the children served:

2.2.3.5 Other areas promoting child development or protecting children’s health and safety.

Any other areas determined necessary to promote child development or to protect children’s

health and safety.

Summarize how this standard is defined, including any variations based on the category of care or

ages of the children served:

2.2.4

Standards on Child/Staff Ratios, Group Sizes, and Qualifications for CCDF Providers

Tribal Lead Agencies are required to establish child care standards for providers receiving CCDF program

funds regarding appropriate child to staff ratios (by age range of the child), group size limits for specific

age populations, and the required qualifications for providers based on the type of child care setting (i.e.,

center-based child care providers (including Tribally Operated Centers), family child care providers, or inhome child care providers). This requirement also applies to providers who are only receiving quality

CCDF dollars (658E(c)(2)(H); 98.16(m); 98.41(d)).

Tribal Lead Agencies have flexibility in defining standards and provider types that are reflective of the

culture and language, and that meet the needs of the children and families served.

2.2.4.1 Describe standards on child/staff ratios and group sizes for CCDF providers.

Note: Applicable Provider Types can be selected in 1.7.1.1 Providers that Offer Direct Services

1. Center-Based Child Care Providers

Infant

Define age range: from 4 weeks [x] months [ ] years [ ]

through 11 weeks [ ] months [x] years [ ]

Ratio: 1:4

Group size: 8

ii.

Toddler

Define age range: from 12 weeks [ ] months [x] years [ ]

through 29 weeks [ ] months [x] years [ ]

Ratio: 1:7

Group size: 14

iii.

Preschool

Define age range: from 30 weeks [ ] months [x] years [ ]

through 6 weeks[ ] months [ ] years [x]

Ratio: 1:10

Group size: 20

iv.

School-Age

Define age range: from 5 weeks [ ] months [ ] years [x]

through 12 weeks[ ] months [ ] years [x]

Ratio: 1:15

Group size: 30

Mixed-Age Groups (if applicable):

Ratio:

Group size:

2. Family Child Care Providers

Infant

Define age range: from 4 weeks [x] months [ ] years [ ]

through 11 weeks [ ] months [x] years [ ]

Ratio: 1:2

Group size: 4

ii.

Toddler

Define age range: from 12 weeks [ ] months[x] years[ ]

through 29 weeks [ ] months [x] years [ ]

Ratio: 1:4

Group size: 8

iii.

Preschool

Define age range: from 30 weeks [ ] months [x] years [ ]

through 6 weeks[ ] months [ ] years [x]

Ratio: 1:10

Group size: 10

iv.

School-Age

Define age range: from 5 weeks [ ] months [ ] years [x]

through 12 weeks [ ] months [ ] years [x]

Ratio: 1:10

Group size: 10

Mixed-Age Groups (if applicable)

Ratio:

Group size:

3. In-Home Child Care Providers

Infant

Define age range: from 4 weeks [x] months [ ] years [ ]

through 11 weeks[ ] months [x] years [ ]

Ratio: 1:6

Group size: 6

ii.

Toddler

Define age range: from 12 weeks [ ] months [x] years [ ]

through 30 weeks [ ] months [x] years [ ]

Ratio: 1:6

Group size: 6

iii.

Preschool

Define age range: from 30 weeks [ ] months [x] years [ ]

through 6 weeks [ ] months [ ] years [x]

Ratio: 1:6

Group size: 6

iv.

School-Age

Define age range: from 5 weeks [ ] months [ ] years [x]

through 12 weeks [ ] months [ ] years [x]

Ratio: 1:6

Group size: 6

2.2.5

Mixed-Age Groups (if applicable):

Ratio:

Group size:

Provide the teacher/caregiver qualifications for each category of CCDF providers.

2.2.5.1 Center-Based Child Care Providers (e.g., Tribally Operated Centers):

Note: Applicable Provider Types can be selected in 1.7.1.1 Providers that Offer Direct Services

1. Describe the teacher qualifications: Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care

providers set forth by each individual governing state (Washington; Oregon).

2. Describe the director qualifications: Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care

providers set forth by each individual governing state (Washington; Oregon).

2.2.5.2 Family Child Care Providers:

Note: Applicable Provider Types can be selected in 1.7.1.1 Providers that Offer Direct Services

1. Describe the teacher qualifications: Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care

providers set forth by each individual governing state (Washington; Oregon).

2. Describe the director qualifications (if applicable): Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all

child care providers set forth by each individual governing state (Washington; Oregon).

2.2.5.3 In-Home Child Care Provider (care in the child’s home):

Note: Applicable Provider Types can be selected in 1.7.1.1 Providers that Offer Direct Services

1. Describe the teacher qualifications: Tribal Lead Agency will follow State guidelines for all child care

providers set forth by each individual governing state (Washington; Oregon).

2.3 Monitoring and Enforcement Policies and Practices for CCDF Providers

2.3.1

Enforcement of Health and Safety Requirements

Tribal Lead Agencies must certify that procedures are in effect to ensure that child care providers caring

for children receiving CCDF services comply with all applicable Tribal and/or state and local health, safety,

and fire standards, including those described in 98.41 and 98.42(a).

This certification may include, but is not limited to, any systems used to ensure that providers met health

and safety requirements, any documentation required to be maintained by child care providers, and any

other monitoring procedures to ensure compliance. Tribal Lead Agencies are subject to the provision at

98.42(b)(2) to require inspections of child care providers and facilities that receive CCDF program funds.

Tribal Lead Agencies must conduct at least one pre-licensure/pre-service inspection for compliance with

health, safety, and fire requirements and annual, unannounced inspections for licensed/regulated

providers and facilities. Tribal Lead Agencies must also conduct annual inspections for license-exempt

CCDF providers for compliance with health, safety, and fire requirements.

Tribal Lead Agencies may propose an alternative approach to meet the annual inspection requirements.

In its justification, the Tribal Lead Agency must describe how the alternative approach is appropriately

comprehensive and protects the health and safety of children in care.

2.3.1.1 Annual inspections of CCDF providers policies and practices.

Note: Applicable Provider Types can be selected in 1.7.1.1 Providers that Offer Direct Services

Describe the Tribal Lead Agency’s policies and practices for annual inspections of CCDF providers for

compliance with health, safety, and fire requirements for the following categories of providers. Inhome child care providers can answer “not applicable” if they are not regulated.

Center-Based Child Care Providers (e.g., Tribally Operated Centers): All center-based child care is by

state-licensed centers and they follow state guidelines. The virtual pre-license/preservice inspection

includes reviewing the state's last inspection and compiling all center documents confirming that all

health, safety, and fire requirements have been met. If the state has not been out for an inspection

within the last year an in-person inspection will be performed within 3 months. If there are any areas

of concern on the last inspection, then the center will need to show documentation that the issue is in

compliance. There will be one unannounced in-person inspection for licensed/regulated providers

and facilities. This alternative approach is so that the family can get enrolled into care as soon as

possible. Since our area encompasses two states and five counties, this process ensures approval in a

timely manner.

Tribal Operated Centers: Not Applicable

Family Child Care Providers: Family childcare applicants must complete an online orientation,

considered phase 1, and then an in-person orientation considered phase 2. The orientation includes

an overview of all health and safety requirements in the licensing rules and is conducted with no

more than 3 applicants and one licensor. They monitor for the 11 health and safety topical standards,

training, background check, ratio/group size, and teacher qualifications. Before licensure, a 30-hour

Child Care Basics training is required for the licensee and primary assistant.

In-Home Child Care Providers (care in the child’s home): In-Home Care:

The Tribal lead agency will be completing its own tribal alternative annual monitoring process. The

Tribal lead agency will be referencing both "Caring for Our Children Basics" and "Developing Child

Care Health and Safety Monitoring and Enforcement Systems: A Guide for Tribal Lead Agencies"

publications. The monitor refers to the 11 health and safety topical standards, training, background

check, and ratio/group size. FFN providers must complete pediatric CPR/First Aid training, bloodborne pathogens, and review on all other health and safety topics, within 90 days of their

authorization begin date.

2.3.1.2 Does the Tribal Lead Agency have a stand-alone licensing system (Tribal Lead Agencies do not need to

describe a state licensing system for state licensed providers)?

Note: Applicable Provider Types can be selected in 1.7.1.1 Providers that Offer Direct Services

[x] No (Skip to 2.3.1.3)

[ ] Yes

If yes, describe the Tribal Lead Agency’s pre-licensure inspections and annual, unannounced

inspections for licensed CCDF providers policies and practices for the following categories of

providers.

Center-Based Child Care Providers (e.g., Tribally Operated Centers):

Family Child Care Providers:

In-Home Child Care Providers (care in the child’s home):

2.3.1.3 Alternative approach to inspection requirements.

Does the Tribal Lead Agency have an alternative approach to the inspection requirements at

98.42(b)(2)?

[ ] Yes. Describe how the alternative approach is appropriately comprehensive and protects the

health and safety of children in care:

[x] No.

2.3.2

Monitoring Inspectors

Tribal Lead Agencies must have policies and practices ensuring that individuals who are hired as

inspectors or monitors are qualified to inspect child care providers and facilities and have received health

and safety training appropriate to the provider setting and age of the children served.

Training shall include, but is not limited to, those requirements described in 98.41(a)(1) and all aspects of

the requirements detailed in Section 2.1.2 (658E(c)(2)(K)(i)(I); 98.42(b)(1)).

2.3.2.1 Qualifications for inspectors or monitors to inspect facilities and providers.

To certify, describe how the Tribal Lead Agency ensures that inspectors or monitors are qualified to

inspect child care facilities and providers: The Tribal Lead Agency hires staff with a working knowledge

of the state childcare inspection process.

2.3.2.2 Inspectors or monitors training on health and safety requirements.

To certify, describe how the inspectors or monitors have received training on health and safety

requirements that are appropriate to the age of the children in care, and the type of provider setting

(98.42(b)(1)): The Inspectors or Monitors are current on their First Aid & CPR, blood-born pathogens,

and have a working knowledge of the latest health and safety required by the state.

2.3.2.3 Ratio of Inspectors or Monitors to Child Care Providers

The Tribal Lead Agencies must have policies and practices requiring the ratio of inspectors or monitors to child

care providers and facilities to be maintained at a level sufficient to conduct effective inspections of child care

providers and facilities on a timely basis in accordance with Tribal, Federal, state, and local laws

(658E(c)(2)(K)(i)(III); 98.42(b)(3)).

In order to maintain an effective ratio, Tribal Lead Agency must maintain staff numbers to maintain

child safety at one inspector/monitor to 50 providers.

2.3.2.4 Policies and practices regarding the ratio of inspectors or monitors to child care providers.

Describe the Tribal Lead Agency’s policies and practices regarding the ratio of inspectors to child care

providers (i.e., the number of inspectors per number of child care providers) and facilities within that

agency’s inspection area and include how the ratio is sufficient to conduct effective inspections on a

timely basis: In order to maintain an effective ratio, Tribal Lead Agency must maintain staff numbers

to maintain child safety at one inspector/monitor to 50 providers. Policies and Procedures are under

construction at this time.

2.4 Exemptions for Relative Providers

Tribal Lead Agencies have the option to exempt relatives over age 18 (defined in CCDF

regulations as grandparents, great-grandparents, siblings if living in a separate residence,

aunts, and uncles (98.42(c)) from some/all health and safety requirements. Note: This

exception applies if the individual cares only for relative children.

Check and describe, where applicable, the policies that the Tribal Lead Agency has

regarding exemptions for eligible relative providers over age 18 for the following health and

safety requirements. The description should include the health and safety requirements

that relatives are exempt from, if applicable, and which of the federally defined relatives

the exemption applies to.

2.4.1

Health and Safety Standards

2.4.1.1. Health and Safety Standards (as described in Sections 2.2.1, 2.2.2, 2.2.4, and 2.2.6).

Note: Applicable Provider Types can be selected in 1.7.1.1 Providers that Offer Direct Services

[ ] Relative providers are exempt from all health and safety standard requirements

[ ] Relative providers are exempt from a portion of health and safety standard requirements.

2.4.2

Describe:

[x] Relative providers must fully comply with all health and safety standard requirements.

Health and Safety Training

2.4.2.1 Health and Safety Training (as described in Sections 2.2.2 and 2.2.3).

Note: Applicable Provider Types can be selected in 1.7.1.1 Providers that Offer Direct Services

2.4.3

[ ] Relative providers are exempt from all health and safety training requirements.

[ ] Relative providers are exempt from a portion of all health and safety training

requirements. Describe:

[x] Relative providers must fully comply with all health and safety training requirements.

Monitoring and Enforcement

2.4.3.1 Monitoring and Enforcement (as described in Section 2.3).

Note: Applicable Provider Types can be selected in 1.7.1.1 Providers that Offer Direct Services

[ ] Relative providers are exempt from all monitoring and enforcement requirements.

[ ] Relative providers are exempt from a portion of monitoring and enforcement

requirements. Describe:

[x] Relative providers must fully comply with all monitoring and enforcement requirements.

2.5 Comprehensive Background Checks

In this section, Tribal Lead Agencies will describe the types of providers subject to comprehensive

background checks and the methods used for each component of the eight background checks (e.g.,

which database or repository is checked). In addition, the Tribal Lead Agency will describe the policies in

place for disqualifying crimes for employment eligibility, fees, timeliness, and privacy in returning

comprehensive background check results. Next, Tribal Lead Agencies will describe the processes in place

for child care providers to provisionally employ child care staff (including employee, prospective

employee, or household member) when not all the comprehensive background checks are returned.

Tribal Lead Agencies will also describe the process for child care staff (including employee, prospective

employee, or household member) to appeal unfavorable results. Finally, Tribal Lead Agencies will need to

justify and describe their alternative approach, if applicable.

The CCDBG Act requires Tribal Lead Agencies, regardless of allocation size, to have in effect requirements,

policies, and procedures to conduct comprehensive background checks for (1) all child care staff members

(including prospective staff members) of all child care programs that are licensed, regulated, approved, or

registered under Tribal law (including Tribally Operated Centers) and for (2) all other providers eligible to

deliver CCDF services (e.g., license-exempt CCDF-eligible providers) (98.43(a)(1)(i)).

2.5.1

Methods used for each of the eight comprehensive background check components (98.43(b))

Under the CCDF rule, a comprehensive background check must include eight separate and specific

components (98.43(b)), which encompass three in-state checks, two national checks, and three interstate

checks (if the individual resided in another state in the preceding 5 years). Comprehensive background

check requirements apply to any staff member who is employed by a child care provider for

compensation, including contract employees and self-employed individuals; whose activities involve the

care or supervision of children; or who has unsupervised access to children (98.43(b)(2)).

Tribal Lead Agencies must describe the methods used for the background check components, such as the

database or repository that is checked or a memorandum of understanding (MOU)/memorandum of

agreement (MOA) or contract with a state or third-party vendor to conduct the checks on the Tribal Lead

Agency’s behalf.

Tribal Lead Agencies may use alternative approaches in addition to or instead of the pre-approved

methods. For example, Tribal Lead Agencies are encouraged (but not required) to check registries

maintained by the Tribe (rather than a state). Tribal Lead Agencies must provide justification in 2.5.7 for

using any alternative approaches that are identified in 2.4.1. The alternative approach is subject to ACF

approval, and ACF will not approve approaches with blanket exemptions that bypass the intent of

protecting children’s safety.

In instances in which a child care provider has already met the state’s background check requirements

consistent with the CCDF rule (because that provider is licensed by the state and/or receives CCDF

program funding from the state), it is not necessary for the Tribal Lead Agency to require additional or

duplicative background checks.

For family child care providers, the comprehensive background check requirement includes the caregiver

and household members (i.e., any other adults residing in the family child care who are age 18 or older

(98.43(a)(2)(ii)(C)). ACF will consider an alternative approach for limiting the background checks for

household members to those who are feasible. OCC will not approve alternative approaches that do not

include any background checks for other adults in a family child care. As stated in the preamble of the

CCDF Final Rule (81 FR 67542-43), ACF expects that Tribal Lead Agencies will conduct some components

of a background check for these individuals, for example, a check of Tribal criminal history records. Tribal

Lead Agencies who use this alternative approach must indicate which background checks apply to

household members and must justify the alternative approach in 2.5.7.

This requirement does not apply to individuals over age 18 who are related to all children for whom child

care services are provided (98.43(a)(2)(i)(A)).

Each of the tables below describes one component of the eight comprehensive background checks. Select

which methods are used for each provider type for each component.

•

Check the pre-approved and/or alternative approach method(s) used for each provider type.

Tribal Lead Agencies must justify any alternative approach in 2.5.7.

Tribal Lead Agencies may select more than one method for a provider type. (For example, a Tribal

Lead Agency may search the Tribal criminal fingerprint records and the state criminal fingerprint

records for staff employed in Tribally Operated Centers.)

If relative providers over age 18 are exempt from that background check component, check

“Exempt.”

Check “Family child care household members not included” for background check components

that are not conducted for household members. (OCC will not approve alternative approaches

that do not include at least one background check component for other adults in an family child

•

care.)

Describe any Tribal or state database or repository (e.g., the Tribal criminal fingerprint records or

a state criminal fingerprint records) used for any background check components at the end of

each table.

If the Tribal Lead Agency uses any alternative approach that is not listed, check “Other” and

describe the approach. Tribal Lead Agencies must justify the alternative approach in 2.5.7.

2.5.1.1 Components of in-state background checks

For in-state registry checks, OCC will consider alternative approaches that include checks of Tribal

criminal, sex offender, and/or child abuse and neglect registries. OCC will also consider approaches

that include checks of databases of third-party or private entities. Tribal lead agencies must justify

any alternative approach in 2.5.7.

1. Criminal registry or repository using fingerprints in the current state of residency (check only those

methods used)

Note: Rows are enabled based on the Provider Types specified in 1.7.1 Providers that Offer Direct

Services

Tribally Operated Centers

and

Tribally Regulated Providers

(includes center-based child

care and family child care)

Pre-Approved Methods

[ ] State database or repository

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

Alternative Approach

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Family child care

household members not

included

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

State-Licensed Providers

(includes center-based child

care and family child care)

[ ] State database or repository

[x] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

Relative Providers

[ ] State database or repository

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[x] Exempt

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Family child care

household members not

included

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

All other providers eligible to

deliver CCDF services

(includes state licenseexempt and in-home child

care providers)

[ ] State database or repository

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[x] Third-party vendor

[ ] Family child care

household members not

included

[ ] Other, describe:

Tribal or state databases or repositories. Tribal Lead Agencies may use Tribal or state

databases or repositories for some or all of their in-state background check components.

Describe any Tribal or state database or repository indicated in the table above.

[ ] No Tribal or state database or repository used in criminal fingerprint checks.

[ ] Tribal database or repository. Describe:

[x] State database or repository. Describe: All state-licensed providers receive background

checks by either Washington State or Oregon State, depending on which state they

are located in.

Personal Security Consultants, Inc. criminal record search

NOTE: Current fingerprinting is on hold currently and will be reviewed.

2. Sex offender registry or repository check in the current state of residency (check only those methods

used)

Note: Rows are enabled based on the Provider Types specified in 1.7.1 Providers that Offer Direct

Services

Tribally Operated Centers

and

Tribally Regulated Providers

(includes center-based child

care and family child care)

Pre-Approved Methods

[ ] State database or repository

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

Alternative Approach

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Family child care household

members not included

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

State-Licensed Providers

[ ] State database or repository

(includes center-based child [x] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

care and family child care)

behalf

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Family child care household

members not included

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

Relative Providers

[ ] State database or repository

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[x] Exempt

All other providers eligible

to deliver CCDF services

(includes state licenseexempt and in-home child

care providers)

[ ] State database or repository

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[x] Third-party vendor

[ ] Family child care household

members not included

[ ] Other, describe:

Tribal or state databases or repositories. Tribal Lead Agencies may use Tribal or state

databases or repositories for some or all of their in-state background check components.

Describe any Tribal or state database or repository indicated in the table above.

[ ] No Tribal or state database or repository used in sex offender checks.

[ ] Tribal database or repository. Describe:

[x] State database or repository. Describe: All state-licensed providers receive background

checks by either Washington State or Oregon State, depending on which state they are

located in.

Personal Security Consultants, Inc. sex offender record search

NOTE: Current fingerprinting is on hold currently and will be reviewed.

3. Child abuse and neglect registry and database check in the current state of residency (check only those

methods used)

Note: Rows are enabled based on the Provider Types specified in 1.7.1 Providers that Offer Direct

Services

Tribally Operated Centers and

Tribally Regulated Providers

(includes center-based child

care and family child care)

Pre-Approved Methods

[ ] State database or repository

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

Alternative Approach

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Family child care

household members not

included

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

State-Licensed Providers

(includes center-based child

care and family child care)

[ ] State database or repository

[x] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Family child care

household members not

included

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

Relative Providers

[ ] State database or repository

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[x] Exempt

All other providers eligible to [ ] State database or repository

deliver CCDF services (includes [ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

state license-exempt and inbehalf

home child care providers)

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Family child care

household members not

included

[x] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

Tribal or state databases or repositories. Tribal Lead Agencies may use Tribal or state

databases or repositories for some or all of their in-state background check components.

Describe any Tribal or state database or repository indicated in the table above.

[ ] No Tribal or state database or repository used in child abuse and neglect checks.

[ ] Tribal database or repository. Describe:

[x] State database or repository. Describe: All state-licensed providers receive background

checks by either Washington State or Oregon State, depending on which state they

are located in.

Currently the third party vendor is not doing a search. Currently defining the process.

2.5.1.2 Components of national background check

1. FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) fingerprint check (check only those methods used)

For FBI fingerprint checks, the CCDBG Act does not provide explicit authority for Tribes to

request FBI fingerprint checks for all child care staff. Tribes may have authority under a

different Federal statute to request FBI fingerprint-based background checks for child care

staff, including (but not limited to) State Statute (P.L. 92-544, 34 U.S.C. 41101), Indian Child

Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act (P.L. 101-630, 25 U.S.C. 3207), National Child

Protection Act/Volunteers for Children Act (NCPA/VCA) (P.L. 101-209, as amended, 34 U.S.C.

40101 et seq.), and Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act (P.L. 110-134, 42 U.S.C.

9843a).

The four pre-approved methods for Tribes to access the FBI fingerprint check are through (1) a

state repository (through an MOU/MOA), (2) U.S. Department of Justice Tribal Access Program

(TAP), (3) an FBI-approved channeler, and (4) fingerprint sent directly to the FBI (i.e.,

submitting hard-copy fingerprint cards through the U.S. mail).

OCC will consider alternative approaches (such as name-based checks of Tribal or state record

management systems) when the process of obtaining fingerprints from one of the four preapproved methods is not available or feasible. Tribal Lead Agencies must justify any alternative

approach in 2.5.7.

Note: Rows are enabled based on the Provider Types specified in 1.7.1 Providers that Offer

Direct Services

Tribally Operated Centers

and

Tribally Regulated Providers

(includes center-based child

care and family child care)

State-Licensed Providers

(includes center-based child

care and family child care)

Relative Providers

All other providers eligible

to deliver CCDF services

(includes state licenseexempt and in-home child

care providers)

Pre-Approved Methods

[ ] State agreement (e.g., MOU

or MOA)

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[ ] U.S. Department of Justice

(DOJ) TAP

[ ] FBI-approved channeler

[ ] Direct to FBI

[ ] State agreement (e.g., MOU

or MOA)

[x] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[ ] DOJ TAP

[ ] FBI-approved channeler

[ ] Direct to FBI

[ ] State agreement (e.g., MOU

or MOA)

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[ ] DOJ TAP

[ ] FBI-approved channeler

[ ] Direct to FBI

[ ] State agreement (e.g., MOU

or MOA)

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[ ] DOJ TAP

[ ] FBI-approved channeler

[ ] Direct to FBI

Alternative Approach

[ ] Non-CCDBG Tribal authority

[ ] Family child care household

members not included

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

[ ] Non-CCDBG Tribal authority

[ ] Family child care household

members not included

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

[ ] Non-CCDBG Tribal authority

[ ] Third-party vendor

[x] Other, describe: Exempt

[ ] Non-CCDBG Tribal authority

[ ] Family child care household

members not included

[ ] Third-party vendor

[x] Other, describe: Third party

vendor conducts search of a

national search with out

fingerprints.

2. National Crime Information Center (NCIC) National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR) name-based search

(check only those methods used)

Because there is no Federal authority under the CCDBG Act for Tribes to access information

through the NCIC NSOR name-based search, OCC will consider approaches that do not include

accessing the NCIC NSOR name-based search. An alternative approach to checking the NCIC

NSOR name-based check may include a check of a private or public sex offender registry. Tribal

Lead Agencies must justify any alternative approach in 2.5.7.

Note: Rows are enabled based on the Provider Types specified in 1.7.1 Providers that Offer

Direct Services

Tribally Operated Centers

and

Tribally Regulated Providers

(includes center-based child

care and family child care)

State-Licensed Providers

(includes center-based child

care and family child care)

Relative Providers

All other providers eligible to

deliver CCDF services

(includes state licenseexempt and in-home child

care providers)

Pre-Approved Methods

[ ] State agreement (e.g.,

MOU or MOA)

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[ ] National FBI fingerprint

NCIC NSOR automatic check

plus name-based search of

NCIC NSOR

[ ] State agreement (e.g.,

MOU or MOA)

[x] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[ ] National FBI fingerprint

NCIC NSOR automatic check

plus name-based search of

NCIC NSOR

[ ] State agreement (e.g.,

MOU or MOA)

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[ ] National FBI fingerprint

NCIC NSOR automatic check

plus name-based search of

NCIC NSOR

[x] Exempt

[ ] State agreement (e.g.,

MOU or MOA)

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[ ] National FBI fingerprint

NCIC NSOR automatic check

plus name-based search of

NCIC NSOR

Alternative approach

[ ] Private or public sex

offender registry

[ ] Family child care household

members not included

[ ] Other, describe:

[ ] Private or public sex

offender registry

[ ] Family child care household

members not included

[ ] Other, describe:

[ ] Private or public sex

offender registry

[ ] Other, describe:

[ ] Private or public sex

offender registry

[ ] Family child care household

members not included

[x] Other, describe: Third party

vendor conducts search of Sex

Offender Registry

2.5.1.3 Components of interstate background checks for place(s) of residency in last 5 years

For interstate registry checks, OCC will consider alternative approaches that include checks of Tribal

criminal, sex offender and/or child abuse and neglect registries. OCC will also consider approaches

that include checks of databases of third-party or private entities. Tribal Lead Agencies must justify

any alternative approach in 2.5.7.

1. Criminal registry or repository using fingerprints in the previous state of residency

Note: Rows are enabled based on the Provider Types specified in 1.7.1 Providers that Offer Direct

Services

Tribally Operated Centers

and

Tribally Regulated Providers

(includes center-based child

care, family child care, and

in-home providers)

Pre-Approved Methods

[ ] State database or repository

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

Alternative Approach

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Family child care household

members not included

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

State-Licensed Providers

(includes center-based child

care and family child care)

[ ] State database or repository

[x] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

Relative Providers

[ ] State database or repository

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[x] Exempt

[ ] State database or repository

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Family child care household

members not included

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

All other providers eligible

to deliver CCDF services

(includes state licenseexempt and in-home child

careproviders)

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Family child care household

members not included

[x] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

Tribal or state databases or repositories. Tribal Lead Agencies may use Tribal or state

databases or repositories for some or all their child abuse and neglect registry and

database check component. Describe any Tribal or state database or repository indicated

in the table above.

[ ] No Tribal or state database or repository used in background checks.

[ ] Tribal database or repository. Describe:

[x] State database or repository. Describe: All state-licensed providers receive background

checks by either Washington State or Oregon State, depending on which state they are

located in.

Personal Security Consultants, Inc. conducts interstate criminal, sex offender and/or child

abuse and neglect registries

2. Sex offender registry or repository check in the previous state of residency (check only those methods

used)

Note: Rows are enabled based on the Provider Types specified in 1.7.1 Providers that Offer Direct

Services

Tribally Operated Centers

and

Tribally Regulated Providers

(includes center-based child

care and family child care)

Pre-Approved Methods

[ ] State database or repository

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

Alternative Approach

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Family child care household

members not included

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

State-Licensed Providers

(includes center-based child

care and family child care)

[ ] State database or repository

[x] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Family child care household

members not included

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

Relative Providers

[ ] State database or repository

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[x] Exempt

[ ] State database or repository

[ ] State conducts background

check on Tribal Lead Agency’s

behalf

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

All other providers eligible

to deliver CCDF services

(includes state licenseexempt and in-home child

care providers)

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Third-party vendor

[x] Family child care household

members not included

[ ] Other, describe:

Tribal or state databases or repositories. Tribal Lead Agencies may use Tribal or state

databases or repositories for some or all of their interstate background check

components. Describe any Tribal or state database or repository indicated in the table

above.

[ ] No Tribal or state database or repository used in interstate criminal background

checks.

[ ] Tribal database or repository. Describe:

[x] State database or repository. Describe: All state-licensed providers receive background

checks by either Washington State or Oregon State, depending on which state they

are located in.

Personal Security Consultants, Inc. conducts interstate criminal, sex offender and/or

child abuse and neglect registries

3. Child abuse and neglect registry and database check in the previous state of residency

Note: Rows are enabled based on the Provider Types specified in 1.7.1 Providers that Offer Direct

Services

Tribally Operated Centers and

Tribally Regulated Providers

(includes center-based child

care and family child care)

Pre-Approved Methods

[ ] State database or

repository

[ ] State conducts

background check on Tribal

Lead Agency’s behalf

Alternative Approach

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Family child care

household members not

included

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

State-Licensed Providers

(includes center-based child

care and family child care)

[ ] State database or

repository

[x] State conducts

background check on Tribal

Lead Agency’s behalf

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Family child care

household members not

included

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

Relative Providers

[ ] State database or

repository

[ ] State conducts

background check on Tribal

Lead Agency’s behalf

[x] Exempt

[ ] State database or

repository

[ ] State conducts

background check on Tribal

Lead Agency’s behalf

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Third-party vendor

[ ] Other, describe:

All other providers eligible to

deliver CCDF services (includes

state license-exempt and inhome child care providers)

[ ] Tribal database or

repository

[ ] Third-party vendor

[x] Family child care

household members not

included

[ ] Other, describe:

Tribal or state databases or repositories. Tribal Lead Agencies may use Tribal or state

databases or repositories for some or all of their interstate background check

components. Describe any Tribal or state database or repository indicated in the table

above.

[ ] No Tribal or state database or repository used in interstate child abuse and neglect

checks.

[ ] Tribal database or repository. Describe:

[x] State database or repository. Describe: All state-licensed providers receive background

checks by either Washington State or Oregon State, depending on which state they are

located in.

2.5.2

Personal Security Consultants, Inc. conducts interstate criminal, and sex offender

registries

Disqualifying Crimes for Employment Eligibility

Child care staff members cannot be employed by a child care provider receiving CCDF subsidy funds if

they refuse a background check, make materially false statements in connection with the background

check, or are registered or required to be registered on the state or National Sex Offender Registry

(98.43(c)(1)(i-iii)). Potential staff members also cannot be employed by a provider receiving CCDF program

funds if they have been convicted of:

• A felony consisting of murder, child abuse or neglect, crimes against children, spousal abuse,

crimes involving rape or sexual assault, kidnapping, arson, physical assault or battery, or—subject

to an individual review (at the Tribal Lead Agencies’ option)—a drug-related offense committed

during the preceding 5 years

• A violent misdemeanor committed as an adult against a child, including the following crimes—

child abuse, child endangerment, or sexual assault

• A misdemeanor involving child pornography (98.43(c)(1)(iv-v)).

Tribal Lead Agencies that only use state-licensed providers and rely on state-conducted background

check policies and procedures should select “No”.

2.5.2.1 Other disqualifying crimes.

Does the Tribal Lead Agency disqualify child care staff members based on their conviction for any

other crimes not specifically listed in 98.43(c)(i)?

[ ] No.

[ ] State conducts all background checks and determines disqualifying crimes.

[x] Yes. Describe other disqualifying crimes and provide a citation: Additional disqualifying crimes:

Arson, Assault 3, not DV, Assault 1, Assault 4/simple assault, Assault 2, Burglary, Assault 3 DV,

Coercion, Assault of a child, Custodial assault, Bail jumping, Custodial sexual misconduct,

Extortion 2, Child buying or selling, Forgery, Child molestation, Harassment, Commercial sexual

abuse of a minor, Communication with a minor for immoral purposes, Identity theft, Controlled

substance, homicide, Leading organized crime, Criminal mistreatment, Malicious explosion 3,

Custodial interference, Malicious mischief, Dealing in depictions of minor engaged in sexually

explicit conduct, Malicious placement an explosive 2 and 3, DV felonies, Drive-by shooting

Malicious placement of imitation device 1, Extortion 1, Patronizing a prostitute, Harassment DV,

Possess explosive device, Homicide by abuse, Promoting pornography, Homicide by watercraft,

Promoting prostitution 1 and 2, Incest, Promoting suicide attempt, Indecent exposure/ public

indecency (felony)

2.5.2.2 Alternative approach to lifetime ban for disqualifying offenses.

Note: Applicable Provider Types can be selected in 1.7.1.1 Providers that Offer Direct Services

ACF will consider alternative approaches where the Tribal Lead Agency implements less than a

lifetime ban for offenses that are not crimes against children. Tribes may adopt an individualized

review process for determining employment eligibility for those convicted of crimes that are not

crimes against children. Tribal Lead Agencies must justify any alternative approach in 2.5.7.

Does the Tribal Lead Agency use an alternative approach that implements a less than lifetime ban for

offenses that are not crimes against children?

[ ] No

[x] Yes

1. If yes, check the type of provider(s) to which the alternative approach for disqualifying

crimes applies.

[ ] Tribally Operated Centers and Tribally Regulated Providers (includes center-based

child care and family child care)

[ ] State-Licensed Providers (includes center-based child care and family child care)

[ ] Relative Providers

[x] All other providers eligible to deliver CCDF services (includes license-exempt and inhome child care providers)

2.5.3

Fees

The Tribal Lead Agency may not charge fees that exceed the actual costs of processing applications and

administering a comprehensive background check, regardless of whether they are conducted by the

Tribe, a state, or a third-party vendor or contractor (98.43(f)). Tribal Lead Agencies can report that no fees

are charged if applicable (98.43(f)).

Tribal Lead Agencies that only use state-licensed providers and rely on state-conducted background

check policies and procedures should select “No”.

2.5.3.1 Does the Tribal Lead Agency charge fees?

[ ] Yes.

[x] No. Skip to 2.5.4

2.5.3.2 What are the fees that the Tribal Lead Agency charges for completing the background checks?

2.5.3.3 Ensuring background check fees do not exceed cost of processing and administration.

How does the Tribal Lead Agency ensure that fees charged for completing the background checks do

not exceed the actual cost of processing and administration?

2.5.4

Timeliness and Privacy in Returning the Results

The Tribal Lead Agency must conduct the comprehensive background checks as quickly as possible, and

the process shall not exceed 45 days after the child care provider submits the request. The Tribal Lead

Agency shall provide the results of the background check in a statement to the provider that indicates

whether the staff member is eligible or ineligible, without revealing specific disqualifying information. If

the staff member is ineligible, the Tribal Lead Agency will provide information about each disqualifying

crime to the staff member.

ACF will consider alternative approaches to the requirement to carry out the background check requests

within 45 days. Tribes may also make employment eligibility decisions in the event that not all background

check components are completed within 45 days. Tribal Lead Agencies must justify any alternative

approach in 2.5.7.

Tribal CCDF Programs that only use state-licensed providers and rely on state-conducted background

check policies and procedures should select “No”.

2.5.4.1 Check the timeliness for conducting comprehensive background check results.

Note: Applicable Provider Types can be selected in 1.7.1.1 Providers that Offer Direct Services

[x] Approved approach: For all types of providers, the Tribal Lead Agency returns results within 45

days.

[ ] Alternative approach for OCC approval: For some or all types of providers, the Tribal Lead Agency

returns results after 45 days.

1. If the Tribal Lead Agency uses an approach in which results are returned after 45 days, for

which providers (check only those that apply):

[ ] Tribally Operated Centers and Tribally Regulated Providers (includes center-based child

care and family child care)

[ ] State-Licensed Providers (includes center-based child care and family child care)

[ ] Relative Providers

[ ] All other providers eligible to deliver CCDF services (includes license-exempt and inhome child care providers)

[x] Other approach, including relying on state background check system to return results.

2.5.4.2 Privacy of comprehensive background checks.

Note: Applicable Provider Types can be selected in 1.7.1.1 Providers that Offer Direct Services

Tribal Lead Agencies must ensure the privacy of comprehensive background checks by providing the

results of the background check to the child care provider (i.e., employer) in a statement that

indicates whether a child care staff member (including employee, prospective employee, or

household member) is eligible or ineligible for employment, without revealing any documentation of

criminal history, or disqualifying crimes, or other related information regarding the individual.

ACF will consider alternative approaches that allow some information to be shared with the child care

provider. Note: This provision is subject to limitations in FBI policy and state or Tribal privacy

requirements, which may prevent the release of information. Tribal Lead Agencies must justify any

alternative approach in 2.5.7.

The Tribal Lead Agency may not publicly release the results of individual background checks. It may

release aggregated data by crime as long as the data do not include personally identifiable

information (98.43(e)(2)(iii)).

Check if the privacy of the child care staff member (including employee, prospective employee, or

household member) is ensured when returning results to the child care provider (i.e., employer).

[x] Approved approach: For all types of providers, the Tribal Lead Agency ensures the privacy of the

child care staff member (including employee, prospective employee, or household member).

[ ] Alternative approach for OCC approval: For some or all types of providers, the Tribal Lead Agency

allows some information to be shared with the child care provider (i.e., employer).

1. If the Tribal Lead Agency uses an approach in which some information is shared with the child

care provider, for which providers (check only those that apply):

2.5.5

[ ] Tribally Operated Centers and Tribally Regulated Providers (includes center-based child

care and family child care)

[ ] State-Licensed Providers (includes center-based child care and family child care)

[ ] Relative Providers

[ ] All other providers eligible to deliver CCDF services (includes license-exempt and in-home

child care providers)

[x] Other approach, including relying on state background check system to return results.

Provisional Employment

Child care providers must submit a request to the appropriate Tribal or state agency for a comprehensive

background check for each child care staff member, including prospective staff members, prior to the

date an individual becomes a child care staff member (98.43(d)(1) and (2)). “Prospective staff members”

have applied for a position, but have not yet begun working. A prospective child care staff member may

not begin work until at least one of the following results have been returned as satisfactory:

• FBI fingerprint check

• Tribal or state criminal registry or repository using fingerprints in the Tribe or state where the

prospective staff member resides

ACF will consider an alternative approach that allows for staff members to be provisionally employed

once the background check request has been submitted, but prior to receiving the results of the check.

New staff members are considered “provisionally employed” during the time from when one of the above

fingerprint checks have been returned as satisfactory to the time when all background checks are

returned as satisfactory. An alternative approach to provisional employment must require that the

provider submit all comprehensive background check requests before the prospective staff person begins

working.

Under either approach, the provisionally employed staff member must be supervised at all times by an

individual who has completed the background check (98.43(d)(4)).

2.5.5.1 Check the provisional employment approach used by the Tribal Lead Agency.

Note: Applicable Provider Types can be selected in 1.7.1.1 Providers that Offer Direct Services

[ ] Approved approach: For all types of providers, provisional employment is permitted after a

satisfactory result from the FBI fingerprint check, or the Tribal or state criminal registry or repository,

using fingerprints in the Tribe or state where the prospective staff member resides.

[ ] Alternative approach for OCC approval: For some or all types of providers, provisional employment

is permitted after the comprehensive background check requests have been submitted, but before

the results of either fingerprint checks have been returned.

1. If the Tribal Lead Agency uses the alternative approach in which provisional employment is

permitted after the comprehensive background check requests have been submitted, for

which providers (check only those that apply):

[ ] Tribally Operated Centers and Tribally Regulated Providers (includes center-based child

care and family child care)

[ ] State-Licensed Providers (includes center-based child care and family child care)

[ ] Relative Providers

[ ] All other providers eligible to deliver CCDF services (includes license-exempt and in-home

child care providers)

[x] Not applicable, Tribal Lead Agency does not have provisional employment.

2.5.6

Appeals for Child Care Staff (including employee, prospective employee, or household member).

The Tribal Lead Agency must have a process for a child care staff member (including employee,

prospective employee, or household member) to appeal the results of a background check to challenge

the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in a staff member’s background report

(98.43(e)(3)). The Tribal Lead Agency shall ensure the following:

•

The child care staff member is provided with information related to each disqualifying crime in a

report, along with information and/or a notice on the opportunity to appeal.

A child care staff member will receive clear instructions about how to complete the appeals

process for each background check component if the child care staff member wishes to challenge

the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in such member’s background report.

If the staff member files an appeal, the Tribal Lead Agency will attempt to verify the accuracy of

the information challenged by the child care staff member, including making an effort to locate

any missing disposition information related to the disqualifying crime.

The appeals process is completed in a timely manner for any appealing child care staff member.

Each child care staff member shall receive written notice of the decision. In the case of a negative

determination, the decision should indicate (1) the Tribal Lead Agency’s efforts to verify the

accuracy of the information challenged by the child care staff member; (2) any additional appeals

rights available to the child care staff member; and (3) information on how the individual can

correct the Federal, state, or Tribal records at issue in the case (98.43(e)(3)).

The Tribal Lead Agency must work with other agencies that are in charge of background check

information and results (such as the child welfare office and the state identification bureau) to

ensure the appeals process is conducted in accordance with the CCDBG Act.

2.5.6.1 Notification of applicant about their eligibility to work in a child care program.

Describe how the applicant is notified about their eligibility to work in a child care program. DCYF:

background checks using a secured web service accessed only by authorized department staff. The

disqualification process is defined by WAC 110-06-0080 through 110-06-0115. The steps taken include

notifying the applicant; giving the applicant time to provide new information; and processing and

sending the disqualification letter through certified mail. The letter details options for the applicant to

challenge the department's decision through an administrative hearing as defined in 110-03 WAC for

reconsideration.

CCDP: Request for appeals are to be written and received by CCDP staff within 10 business days of the

adverse action for that it may be reviewed by CCDP staff. This appeal will be taken to a Cowlitz Tribe

internal review panel which will have an additional 10 business days to respond. Tribal attorneys will

also be advised as soon as an appeal is made. All documentation will be stored in a secure electronic

file.

2.5.6.2 Background check appeals

Describe how the Tribal Lead Agency provides opportunities for applicants to appeal the results of

background checks. DCYF: background checks using a secured web service accessed only by

authorized department staff. The disqualification process is defined by WAC 110-06-0080 through

110-06-0115. The steps taken include notifying the applicant; giving the applicant time to provide new

information; and processing and sending the disqualification letter through certified mail. The letter

details options for the applicant to challenge the department's decision through an administrative

hearing as defined in 110-03 WAC for reconsideration.

CCDP: Request for appeals are to be written and received by CCDP staff within 10 business days of the

adverse action for that it may be reviewed by CCDP staff. This appeal will be taken to a Cowlitz Tribe

internal review panel which will have an additional 10 business days to respond. Tribal attorneys will

also be advised as soon as an appeal is made. All documentation will be stored in a secure electronic

file.

2.5.6.3 Review process for individuals disqualified due to a felony drug offense.

Describe whether the Tribe has a review process for individuals disqualified due to a felony drug

offense to determine if that individual is still eligible for employment (98.43 (e)(2-4)). Each childcare

staff member shall receive written notice of the decision. In the case of a negative determination, the

decision should indicate the State's efforts to verify the accuracy of the information challenged by the

childcare staff member, as well as any additional appeals rights available to the childcare staff

member. States, Territories, and Tribes may allow for a review process through which the State,

Territory, or Tribe may determine that a childcare staff member (including a prospective childcare

staff member) is disqualified for a crime specified in paragraph (c)(1)(iv)(I) of this section is eligible for

employment described in paragraph (c)(1) of this section, notwithstanding paragraph (c)(2) of this

section. The review process shall be consistent with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C.

2000e et seq.); Nothing in this section shall be construed to create a private right of action if a

provider has acted in accordance with this section.

2.5.7

Justification for Alternative Approach(es)

Lead agencies may use alternative approaches in addition to or instead of the pre-approved methods. For

example, Tribal Lead Agencies may use name-based checks of Tribal or state record management systems

for the FBI fingerprint check when one of the four pre-approved methods are not available or feasible.

The alternative approach is subject to ACF approval, and ACF will not approve approaches with blanket

exemptions or waivers that bypass the intent of protecting children’s safety.

2.5.7.1 Issues or barriers preventing Tribal Lead Agency from conducting the required checks.

What are the issues or barriers preventing the Tribal Lead Agency from conducting the required

checks? Check only those that apply:

[ ] Does not apply—no alternative approach is used for any of the background check components

[x] Does not have the authority under the CCDF statute to conduct a NCIC NSOR name-based search

[x] No direct authority under the CCDF statute to conduct an FBI fingerprint check

[ ] No existing formal or informal MOU or MOA with a state

[ ] Other. Describe:

2.5.7.2 Comprehensive alternative approach to ensure health and safety of children.

Describe how the alternative approach is comprehensive and ensures the health and safety of

children in child care.

The description should include an alternative approach that affects the methods for conducting

comprehensive background checks; the implementation of less than lifetime bans for offenses that are not

crimes against children; the policies that allow longer than 45 days to conduct comprehensive background

checks; any private information shared with the child care provider (i.e., employer); or provisional

employment, as applicable. If a Tribal Lead Agency does not use any alternative method for their

comprehensive background check, please enter “Does not apply.” Personal Security Consultants, Inc.

conducts national and state sex offender and criminal record search without fingerprints at the national

and state levels.

FFY 2023–2025 Tribal CCDF Plan Print

3 Supporting Continuous Quality Improvement

As of FY 2022, all Tribal Lead Agencies are subject to a 9-percent quality set-aside. Tribal Lead

Agencies must spend quality funds on at least 1 of 10 allowable quality activities, including:

•

Training and professional development;

Early learning and developmental guidelines;

Quality rating and improvement systems;

Supply and quality of services for infants and toddlers;

Child care resource and referral services;

Licensing, inspection, monitoring, training, health & safety;

Evaluating the quality of child care programs;

Supporting providers in the voluntary pursuit of accreditation;

High-quality program standards; and

Other measurable quality improvement activities, including culturally responsive activities,

such as language immersion.

3.1 Quality Improvement Goals and Activities

In completing this section, the Tribal Lead Agency should describe activities currently underway,

planned, or expected during the 3-year Plan period. Any significant changes to the quality

improvement goals or activities should be addressed through an amendment to the Plan.

The Tribal Lead Agency should only describe activities funded either entirely, or in part, with CCDF

dollars. All Tribal Lead Agencies must spend a percentage of their total CCDF expenditures on quality

improvement activities.

Required Minimum for Quality Spending (As of FY 2022)

Tribal Lead Agencies with

Small Allocations

3.1.1

Tribal Lead Agencies with

Medium and Large Allocations

Quality Set-Aside

Infant-Toddler

Total Quality

12%

Quality Improvement Activities

Check the quality activities in 3.1.2.1 through 3.1.2.10 that the Tribal Lead Agency will invest in during this

plan cycle (98.41; 98.83). Tribal Lead Agencies can, and are encouraged to, incorporate culturally

responsive practices into their quality improvement activities.

3.1.1.1 Child care workforce training and professional development.

Supporting the training and professional development of the child care workforce. Check only

those that apply:

[x] Promotion of child development

[x] Curriculum development and instruction

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[x] Implementing developmentally appropriate and culturally and linguistically

responsive instruction

[x] Language and literacy

[x] Developing or providing training to providers about Indigenous early learners and

epistemologies

[x] Developing or providing training to providers about the local Indigenous Nations and

community

[x] Family engagement

[x] Caring for children with special health or developmental needs

[x] Required health and safety training topics, as described in 2.1.3

[x] Access to physical activity

[x] Indigenous nutrition and foods

[ ] Child care as a business

[ ] Fiscal management for providers

[ ] Administration and program management for providers

[ ] Supporting (through funding, scholarships, etc.) the career development pathways of

the child care workforce through:

[ ] Credit toward required training hours

[ ] Certificates (including those incorporating Indigenous studies and Indian

education for providers)

[ ] Credentials

[ ] Degrees (including those incorporating Indigenous studies and Indian education

for providers)

[x] Other: Continuing our Parents as Teachers program to provide home educational and

cultural support to Relative and Non-Relative providers and other CCDP program

parents. When in a state of emergency such as the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an

increase in this provider type as well as parents staying home with younger children

(while older children are in care). This evidence-based program increases the quality of

care for these providers and parents.

Optional: Describe any of the activities checked above:

3.1.1.2 Early learning/developmental guidelines.

Improving on the development or implementation of early learning and developmental

guidelines (658E(c)(2)(T); 658G(b)(2)).

Early learning guidelines are intended to help teachers, caregivers, and directors learn what

children should know and be able to do at different developmental stages to experience

school success. Early learning guidelines often provide examples of activities that can be

FFY 2023–2025 Tribal CCDF Plan Print

used to develop a curriculum but are not intended to serve as a curriculum development

activity. Check only those that apply:

[x] Supporting the use of the state’s early learning guidelines

[ ] Participating in the development or revision of the state’s early learning guidelines

[ ] Adapting a state’s guidelines to reflect the Tribal Nation’s language and culturally

specific early learning and development goals/benchmarks

[ ] Developing or implementing the Tribal Lead Agency’s own tribally specific guidelines

[x] Providing trainings for staff on child development and early learning guidelines

[x] Other. Describe: Continuing our Parents as Teachers Program to provide educational

and developmentally appropriate curriculum, developmental screenings, advocacy,

and support to parents and relative and non-relative child care providers.

Optional: Describe any of the activities checked above:

3.1.1.3 Quality rating and improvement system (QRIS).

Developing, implementing, or enhancing a quality rating and improvement system (QRIS) for

child care providers and services (658G(b)(3)).

A QRIS is a systemic approach to assess, improve, and communicate the level of quality in

early and school-age care and education programs. Similar to rating systems for restaurants

and hotels, a QRIS awards quality ratings to early and school-age care and education

programs that meet a set of defined program standards.

By participating in their state’s or Tribe’s QRIS, early and school-age care providers embark

on a path of continuous quality improvement. Even providers that have met the standards

of the lowest QRIS levels have achieved a level of quality that is beyond the minimum

requirements to operate. Check only those that apply:

[x] Participating in a state QRIS

[ ] Developing a Tribal QRIS or similar rating system

[ ] Implementing a Tribal QRIS or similar rating system

[ ] Collaborating with other Tribes to implement a QRIS or similar rating system

[ ] Other. Describe:

Optional: Describe any of the activities checked above: Continuing our Parents as Teachers

Program to provide educational and developmentally appropriate curriculum,

developmental screenings, advocacy, and support to parents and relative and non-relative

child care providers.

3.1.1.4 Supply and quality of child care services for infants and toddlers.

Improving the supply and quality of child care services for infants and toddlers. Check only

those that apply:

[ ] Developing infant-toddler components within the early learning and developmental

guidelines/standards, etc.

FFY 2023–2025 Tribal CCDF Plan Print

[x] Indigenous language and culturally responsive practices for infants and toddlers

[x] Providing training and professional development to enhance child care providers’

abilities to provide developmentally appropriate services for infants and toddlers

[x] Providing coaching, mentoring, and/or TA on this age group’s unique needs from

networks of qualified infant-toddler specialists

[x] Improving the ability of families to access transparent and easy-to-understand

consumer information about high-quality infant-toddler care that includes

information on infant-toddler language, social-emotional, and early literacy and

numeracy cognitive development

[x] Offering non-traditional hours

[x] Supporting the child care provider workforce through stabilization subgrants

[x] Coordinating with early intervention specialists who provide services for infants and

toddlers with disabilities

[x] Coordinating with Early Head Start or Early Head Start – Child Care Partnerships

[x] Coordinating with home visiting activities

[x] Other. Describe: Continuing our Parents as Teachers program to provide home

educational and cultural support to Relative and Non-Relative providers and other

CCDP program parents. When in a state of emergency such as the COVID-19

pandemic, there is an increase of this provider type as well as parents staying home

with younger children (while older children are in care). This evidence based

program increase the quality of care to these providers and parents.

Optional: Describe any of the activities checked above:

3.1.1.5 Child care resource and referral (CCR&R) services.

Establishing or expanding a system of child care resource and referral (CCR&R) services,

assisting families in finding and choosing a child care provider, collecting and analyzing child

care provider supply-and-demand data, and providing training and support to providers

(658E(c)(3)(B)(iii); 658G(b)(5)). Check only those that apply:

[x] Using a state CCR&R

[ ] Operating a CCR&R

[ ] Partnering with other Tribes to offer CCR&R services

[ ] Incorporating CCR&R services into program services

[ ] Other. Describe:

Optional: Describe any of the activities checked above:

3.1.1.6 Licensing, inspection, monitoring, training, and health and safety.

Supporting compliance with requirements for licensing, inspection, monitoring, training, and

health and safety. Check only those that apply:

FFY 2023–2025 Tribal CCDF Plan Print

[x] Provide health and safety materials/equipment (e.g., carbon monoxide detectors,

fencing, personal protective equipment)

[x] Grants/mini-grants for health and safety materials/equipment

[x] Classroom materials and resources

[x] Financial assistance in meeting licensing requirements

[x] Conduct monitoring visits of child care providers

[ ] Other. Describe:

Optional: Describe any of the activities checked above:

3.1.1.7 Evaluating the quality of child care programs.

Evaluating the quality of child care programs, including how programs positively impact

children. Check only those that apply:

[x] Purchasing quality assessment tools

[ ] Contracting with an outside evaluator to assess child care program quality

[ ] Implementing surveys to collect stakeholder input

[x] Conducting internal training on the use of quality evaluations

[x] Other. Describe: We have an Early Learning Coach who works with childcare

providers one on one to assist them in recognizing their quality improvement needs.

This position provides health and safety inspections, training, and assessments to

evaluate each provider's quality of care and assist them in reaching their goals.

Optional: Describe any of the activities checked above:

3.1.1.8 Supporting providers in the voluntary pursuit of accreditation.

Tribal Lead Agencies can use quality funds to support child care providers in the voluntary

pursuit of accreditation by a national accrediting body with demonstrated, valid, and

reliable program standards of high quality. Accreditation is one way to differentiate the

quality of child care providers. To gain accreditation, center-based child care and family

child care providers must meet certain quality standards outlined by accrediting

organizations. Check only those that apply:

[x] Using accreditation guidelines as a quality measure

[x] Funding any aspect of national accreditation (e.g., accreditation from the National

Association for the Education of Young Children, or the National Association for

Family Child Care, or accreditation developed by a Tribal association)

[x] Paying annual accreditation fees

[ ] Other. Describe:

Optional: Describe any of the activities checked above:

FFY 2023–2025 Tribal CCDF Plan Print

3.1.1.9 High-quality program standards.

Supporting the development or adoption of high-quality program standards related to health,

mental health, nutrition, physical activity, and physical development. Check only those that

apply:

[ ] Using Head Start Program Performance Standards

[ ] Using Stepping Stones to Caring for Our Children

[x] Using Caring for Our Children: Basics

[x] Using Minimum Health and Safety Standards: A Guide for American Indian and

Alaska Native Child Care and Development Fund Grantees

[ ] Using a combination of the above listed standards. Describe:

[x] Other. Describe: Continuing our Early Learning Coach position to assist centers in

improving the quality of care in their centers. This will also assist providers in

meeting state standards of licensing care.

Optional: Describe any of the activities checked above:

3.1.1.10 Other quality improvement activities.

Other activities the Tribal Lead Agency will engage in to improve the quality of child care

services. Check only those that apply:

1. [x] Culturally Relevant Activities

[ ] Incorporating Tribal language into child care settings

[x] Providing teacher training related to implementing language and culture

in the classroom

[ ] Implementing immersion classrooms or language nests

[ ] Partnering with language and culture departments to build curricula

[x] Modifying curricula to reflect Tribal culture

[x] Offering culturally based training opportunities for families and providers

[x] Providing information and training to non-Native providers about working

with Native children and families

[x] Serving traditional Native foods in child care programs

[x] Other. Describe: We will provide Native American culture kits to every

classroom where we have a child being served to make sure that they see

appropriate Native American representation.

Optional: Describe any of the activities checked above:

2. [x] Consumer Education for Families and Providers

FFY 2023–2025 Tribal CCDF Plan Print

[x] Written materials, including newsletters, brochures, and checklists, on

child care topics

[ ] Tribal and/or local media

[x] Social media, such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram

[x] Consultation from CCR&Rs, including information about other early

childhood and social/human services programs for which families and

providers may qualify

[x] Internet options, including electronic media, publications, and webcasts

on child care topics

[ ] Postings on community bulletin boards

[ ] Other. Describe:

Optional: Describe any of the activities checked above:

3. [x] Provider Stabilization Subgrants

Describe: When needs are identified by our Early Learning Coach or State

Licensing, we will work with each provider on a case-by-case basis to determine

the needs of each provider and will provide subgrants as funds allow and will be

prioritized by the severity of the need.

4. [ ] Provider retention grants/bonuses

5. [x] Purchase of vans and busses

6. [x] Other quality activities, besides the activities checked above, that the Tribal

Lead Agency intends to implement during this Plan period: We will continue to

run our Parents As Teachers home visiting program. This evidence-based program

will provide education and developmental support to in-home and relative

providers as well as parents. Staff uses this program to provide developmental

screenings, support, advocacy, education, parenting skills, etc. to parents and

providers.

3.1.2

Identification of Goals and Activities to Improve Quality

3.1.2.1 Identifying the goals and activities to improve quality as described in 3.1.1.

How did the Tribal Lead Agency identify the goals and activities to improve quality as

described in 3.1.1? For example, did the Tribal Lead Agency conduct provider surveys or

assessments that identified the need for quality improvements? Check only those that apply:

[x] Site visits and/or monitoring inspection visits

[x] Surveys to families, providers, and Tribal leadership

[ ] Community assessments

FFY 2023–2025 Tribal CCDF Plan Print

[x] Self-assessments

[x] Parent, family, community, or Tribal meetings

[x] Other. Describe: Feedback from our childcare providers through surveys and polls

3.1.3

Evaluation of Progress for Child Care Quality Improvement Goals and Activities

3.1.3.1 Evaluating progress toward meeting the overall child care quality improvement goals.

How does the Tribal Lead Agency evaluate progress toward meeting the overall child care

quality improvement goals and activities described in 3.1.1 (658G(d)(3))?

[x] Site visits and/or monitoring inspection visits

[x] Follow up surveys to families, providers, and Tribal leaders

[ ] Ongoing community assessments

[x] Self-assessments and program evaluations

[x] Parent, family, community, or Tribal meeting sign-in sheets/attendance logs

Describe the items checked above: Site visits and/or monitoring inspections: ensuring that

assistance and funds are being utilized appropriately. Follow-up surveys: gathering feedback

via surveys and social media as needed but no less than once a year. Self-assessments:

making sure the program changes and the additions we make are being conducted in the best

ways possible to ensure quality improvements. Sign-in sheets: provided at all in-person and

virtual meetings.

[ ] Other. Describe:

3.2 Supporting Training and Professional Development of the Child Care Workforce With CCDF Quality

Funds

The Tribal Lead Agency must develop training and professional development requirements

(documented in Section 2.1.5), including pre-service or orientation training (to be completed within

3 months) and ongoing requirements designed to enable child care providers to promote the social,

emotional, physical, and cognitive development of children and to improve the knowledge and skills

of the child care workforce.

Such requirements shall be applicable to child care providers caring for children receiving CCDF

program funds across the entire age span, from birth through age 12 (658E(c)(2)(G)). Ongoing

training and professional development should be accessible and appropriate to the setting and age

of the children served (98.44(b)(2)).

3.2.1

Training and Professional Development Requirements

3.2.1.1 Specific training and professional development requirements.

To meet the needs of the following age groups or groups of children, describe the specific

training and professional development requirements you have in place for child care

providers who care for:

FFY 2023–2025 Tribal CCDF Plan Print

[x] Infants and toddlers. Describe: All providers must complete Child Care Basics, a 30-hour

preservice training that addresses the foundational concepts of working with children who

have developmental disabilities. This training also provides information on the developmental

continuum and offers providers theoretical information and practical skills to employ when

working with different age groups of children. All DCYF-required training is developed in

multiple languages. Professional Development requirements align with both best practices for

children and best practices for educators of children, youth, and their families. WA early

learning guidelines delivery of learning opportunities for professionals working with a variety

of age groups. WA adheres to a set of Professional Development Culturally Responsive

Guidelines for the development of content and delivery and incorporates the state’s racial

equity framework. This includes the use of reflective questions to guide policy development,

community focuses groups to inform content and community-based delivery models for

training.

[x] Preschoolers. Describe: All providers must complete Child Care Basics, a 30-hour

preservice training that addresses the foundational concepts of working with children who

have developmental disabilities. This training also provides information on the

developmental continuum and offers providers theoretical information and practical skills to

employ when working with different age groups of children. All DCYF-required training is

developed in multiple languages. Professional development requirements align with both

best practices for children and best practices for educators of children, youth, and their

families. WA early learning guidelines delivery of learning opportunities for professionals

working with a variety of age groups. WA adheres to a set of professional development

Culturally Responsive Guidelines for the development of content and delivery and

incorporates the state’s racial equity framework. This includes the use of reflective questions

to guide policy development, community focus groups to inform content, and communitybased delivery models for training.

[x] School-age children. Describe: All providers must complete Child Care Basics, a 30-hour

preservice training that addresses the foundational concepts of working with children who

have developmental disabilities. This training also provides information on the

developmental continuum and offers providers theoretical information and practical skills to

employ when working with different age groups of children. All DCYF-required pieces of

training are developed in multiple languages. Professional development requirements align

with both best practices for children and best practices for educators of children, youth, and

their families. WA early learning guidelines delivery of learning opportunities for

professionals working with a variety of age groups. WA adheres to a set of professional

development Culturally Responsive Guidelines for the development of content and delivery

and incorporates the state’s racial equity framework. This includes the use of reflective

questions to guide policy development, community focus groups to inform content, and

community-based delivery models for training.

[ ] Children who are Indigenous-language learners. Describe:

[x] Children with developmental delays and disabilities. Describe: All providers must complete

Child Care Basics, a 30-hour preservice training that addresses the foundational concepts of

working with children who have developmental disabilities. This training also provides

information on the developmental continuum and offers providers theoretical information

FFY 2023–2025 Tribal CCDF Plan Print

and practical skills to employ when working with different age groups of children. All DCYFrequired pieces of training are developed in multiple languages. Professional development

requirements align with both best practices for children and best practices for educators of

children, youth, and their families. WA early learning guidelines delivery of learning

opportunities for professionals working with a variety of age groups. WA adheres to a set of

professional development Culturally Responsive Guidelines for the development of content

and delivery and incorporates the state’s racial equity framework. This includes the use of

reflective questions to guide policy development, community focus groups to inform content,

and community-based delivery models for training.

3.2.1.2 Participation in the state’s training and professional development system.

Do Tribal CCDF providers participate in the state’s training and professional development

system? For example, Tribal CCDF providers might participate in trainings offered by the local

child care resource and referral agencies or state-funded training organizations.

[x] Yes. Describe: All state-licensed providers will utilize local and state pieces of training

per their respective state requirements.

[ ] No. Check only those that apply:

[ ] The Tribal Lead Agency does not have sufficient information about the state’s

training and professional development opportunities to share with Tribal CCDF

providers.

[ ] The state’s training and professional development opportunities are not

appropriate for providers caring for Native children.

[ ] The state’s training and professional development opportunities are not accessible

to Tribal CCDF providers.

[ ] The state’s training and professional development opportunities are not

affordable for Tribal CCDF providers.

[ ] Other. Describe:

[ ] Unknown.

3.2.1.3 Culturally relevant trainings and professional development opportunities.

Has the Tribal Lead Agency been contacted by the state for input on how to make its trainings

and professional development opportunities more culturally relevant for Native American

children?

[x] Yes. Describe: The Tribal Lead Agency's Supervisor is a member of IPEL (Indian Policy

Early Learning) and TPAC (Tribal Policy Advisory Committee).

[ ] No.

FFY 2023–2025 Tribal CCDF Plan Print

4 Tribal Lead Agencies With Small Allocations Only—Direct Services

CCDF direct services may be provided through a subsidy program in which the Tribal Lead

Agency offers certificates for families to use in any approved child care setting; through a Tribal

CCDF-operated center; or through grants or contracts that allocate slots with a provider who

offers child care services. The Final Rule established three categories of care:

•

In-home child care: Care provided in the child’s home

Family child care: Care provided in a private residence other than the child’s residence

Center-based child care: Group care provided in a facility outside of the child’s or

provider’s home

The Final Rule recognizes that Tribal Lead Agencies

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