The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) recently announced important news for Early Achievers participants:
Needs-Based GrantsThe Needs-Based Grant applications for the 2018-2019 fiscal year are now open. Eligibility requirements have not changed from prior years. Early Achievers participants are eligible if they are either participating in Level 2 activities or have been rated Level 2, and they are either: 1) Enrolled in the Tier 1 food program, or 2) Live within a school district that serves at least 20% children from families with low incomes.
Providers can submit their applications either online via the new WA Compass Provider Portal or on a paper application. Paper applications will only be accepted through the end of this year, however. Family home child care providers need to get a signature from their Child Care Aware of Washington Early Achievers coach prior to submitting their applications. Full details can be found online at https://www.dcyf.wa.gov/services/early-learning-providers/early-achievers/pre-rating
Electronic Time & AttendanceThe electronic time and attendance milestone for subsidy providers has been extended to November 1, 2018. There are additional deadlines. Please read all the details on DCYF’s website here https://www.dcyf.wa.gov/services/early-learning-providers/electronic-attendance-system to make sure you are up-to-speed on this important effort.
Accreditation PointsDCYF has added the National Accreditation Commission (NAC) and AdvancED to the list of recognized accrediting bodies within Early Achievers. As of September 16, 2018 (cohort 6), providers with current accreditation from either of these organizations will be eligible to receive the five accreditation points in Early Achievers and an Area of Specialization. Full details can be found online at https://www.dcyf.wa.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/ea/AccreditationFAQ2018.pdf.
Please contact your Early Achievers Coach with questions. Thanks!