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Delaware Stars for Early Success

Policy Guide

2014


Table of Contents

Program Recruitment and Enrollment .......................................................................................................... 1

Program Eligibility ..................................................................................................................................... 1

Program Application ................................................................................................................................. 2

Acceptance as a Stars Program ................................................................................................................. 3

Alternative Pathway for NAEYC Accredited Programs ............................................................................. 4

Alternative Pathway for Head Start Programs/ECAP Programs ............................................................... 5

Public School Programs ............................................................................................................................. 6

Private Schools .......................................................................................................................................... 9

Program Commitment ............................................................................................................................ 10

Program Participation Requirements ......................................................................................................... 11

Starting with Stars ................................................................................................................................... 11

Stars Plus Cohorts ................................................................................................................................... 12

Stars Database ........................................................................................................................................ 13

Quality Improvement Planning ............................................................................................................... 14

Changes in the status of a program: Program Changes in Administration or Operation ...................... 15

Critical Incidents ...................................................................................................................................... 16

Changes in the status of programs: Programs on Enforcement from Office of Child Care Licensing ... 17

Stars Observation of OCCL Violations ..................................................................................................... 19

Mandatory Reporting of Abuse and Neglect .......................................................................................... 20

Programs Terminating from Delaware Stars .......................................................................................... 21

Program Resources and Supports ............................................................................................................... 22

Technical Assistance ............................................................................................................................... 22

Stars Plus Cohort Resources ................................................................................................................... 24

Practice Assessment ............................................................................................................................... 25

Curriculum Selection and Review for Early Childhood Programs ........................................................... 26

Early Childhood Formative Assessment .................................................................................................. 27

School Age Curriculum Framework......................................................................................................... 28

School Age Child/Youth Assessment ...................................................................................................... 29

T.E.A.C.H. Scholarship Support for Staff of Stars Programs .................................................................... 30


Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation ......................................................................................... 31

New Resources to Support Program Quality .......................................................................................... 32

Program Grants ....................................................................................................................................... 33

Purchase of Care Tiered Reimbursement Incentive ............................................................................... 35

Program Use of Stars Logo and Promotional Materials ......................................................................... 37

Program Designation .................................................................................................................................. 39

Program Standards ................................................................................................................................. 39

Program Assessment: Environment Rating Scales ................................................................................. 41

Program Assessment: ERS Clarifications ................................................................................................ 43

Program Assessment: Verification ......................................................................................................... 44

Appeals .................................................................................................................................................... 47

Governance ................................................................................................................................................. 51

Governance of Delaware Stars ............................................................................................................... 51


1

Policy Area Program Recruitment and Enrollment

Policy Program Eligibility

Date September 15, 2009

Revision(s) April 1, 2013

Recorded Delaware Stars Website

Revision 2.19.13 Programs are eligible to apply for enrollment 6 months after initial licensure if they have been issued an annual license. September 15, 2009 Programs are eligible to apply for enrollment in Delaware Stars if they have been open and serving families with a current, valid license from the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) for a minimum of 12 months prior to application and at the time of enrollment, and are not under any enforcement action, including suspension, probation, or warning of probation. In addition, there must be no outstanding concerns with Purchase of Care (POC) or the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). Delaware Stars serves all types of programs: all licensed centers which includes Head Start, School Age only and half-day preschool programs, licensed family and large family child care, and public school early childhood programs. See Also: Announcement 2013 #6


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Policy Program Application


Revision(s) June 3, 2013


Revision 6.3.13 Delaware Stars has a rolling admissions policy. Programs may apply at any time and will be notified of acceptance pending a review of eligibility requirements. September 15, 2009 If a program wishes to enroll in Delaware Stars and meets the eligibility requirements, they must complete and turn in the application form found on the Delaware Stars website. All applicants will be considered in accordance with the current criteria for enrollment set by the State. Criteria may include consideration of POC enrollment, program type, program size, geographic location, and maximum number of programs being accepted. See Also: Application form


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Policy Acceptance as a Stars Program

Date January 2012

Revision(s)


Programs accepted into Stars will receive a Letter of Acceptance from the Delaware Department of Education welcoming them to Delaware Stars. Programs will also receive a letter from the Delaware Institute for Excellence in Early Childhood welcoming them and outlining the first steps in participating as a Delaware Stars programs.


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Policy Alternative Pathway for NAEYC Accredited Programs


Revision(s) April 20, 2014; July 19, 2011


Revision 4.20.14 NAEYC programs that discontinue or lose NAEYC accreditation must notify Delaware Stars within 14 days. NAEYC programs that discontinue or lose accreditation will no longer be considered Alternate Pathway and will move back to Starting with Stars status and be required to have a full assessment to obtain a higher Star Level Designation. Revision 7.19.11 NAEYC accredited programs must develop and maintain a Quality Improvement Plan (QIP) to be eligible to access Early Learning Challenge resources such as the CORE awards. September 15, 2009 National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) accredited programs, once accepted into Delaware Stars, must provide a copy of their accreditation and complete the Delaware Stars Orientation specific to NAEYC programs. Once complete, NAEYC programs are designated Star Level 5 and may keep their Star Level by maintaining their NAEYC accreditation and submitting copies of their annual NAEYC reports to Delaware Stars. NAEYC programs are assigned a Technical Assistant (TA) to be their contact person for Delaware Stars, but are not eligible to receive ongoing technical assistance visits or Delaware Stars grants and awards.


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Policy Alternative Pathway for Head Start Programs/ECAP Programs


Revision(s) April 20, 2014, July 19, 2011


Revision 4.20.14 Head Start and ECAP programs must notify Delaware Stars within 14 days of any changes in the configuration of the program that would include classrooms or services that are not operated under the Head Start or ECAP monitoring standards. The addition of non-Head Start monitored services will mean that the program is no longer eligible for Alternative Pathway status and will move back to Starting with Stars status and be required to have a full assessment to obtain a higher Star Level Designation. Revision 7.19.11 Head Start and ECAP programs must develop and maintain an active Quality Improvement Plan (QIP) to be eligible for the Early Learning Challenge resources such as the CORE awards. September 15, 2009 Head Start and ECAP programs, once accepted into Delaware Stars, must provide a copy of their most recent Compliance Monitoring report and complete the Delaware Stars Orientation specific to Head Start/ECAP programs. Once complete, programs are designated Star Level 4 and may keep their Star Level by maintaining good standing with Head Start and ECAP monitoring standards and by submitting copies of their annual monitoring reports to Delaware Stars. Programs may choose to maintain at a Star Level 4 or move up to a Star Level 5. To achieve Star Level 5, programs must request an ERS assessment and meet the minimum required classroom scores for that level. Programs are eligible for technical assistance when actively working on achieving Star Level 5, but are not eligible for any grants or awards.


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Policy Public School Programs

Date April 16, 2013

Revision(s)


April 16, 2013 Early childhood programs in public school settings enrolling in Delaware Stars will receive consideration for the demonstrated quality of their services. Participation and Stars designation for public school programs that use funding through Part B/619, Title I, Local funding/Parent Fees, POC/Licensed Child Care/Stars and Blended funding will each be given specific consideration based on the quality standards, requirements and oversight provided by the funding sources. Policies for Part B 619 Programs Part B programs will come into Stars at Star 3 and will not be able to move to Star 4 without meeting the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) requirement: 50% or more of the children are in A1 or B1 classrooms. Part B programs are required to have an ERS and meet scoring guidelines for Star 3, 4, and 5, as applicable. If a Part B classroom is involved in braided or blended funding, but does not meet the LRE requirements, it cannot have a designation beyond Star 3. This policy recommendation grew out of a Part B 619 workgroup that was established to determine recommendations for bringing Part B programs into Delaware Stars.

The following standards are already met: Domain Standards Already Met Points

Family & Community Partnerships

FC1, FC2, FC3, FS1, FS2, FS4 (partial), FP1, FP2

17

Qualifications & Professional Development

QE1, QE2, QE3, QE4, QE5, QT1 (partial), QT2

28

Management & Administration MP1, MO1, MO2, MO4, MO5, MF1 18

Learning Environment & Curriculum

LE1, LE2, LO3, LC2 (partial), LC3 12

Total points 75


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Programs may meet additional standards, not required by Part B, and would be individually verified at each site:

Domain Standards to be Met Family & Community Partnerships

FS3 (family-centered event) FS4 (transition within and out of the program),


QT1 (Para-professional to complete QA PD)* QT3 (Facility PD plan)

Management & Administration

MO3 (staff meetings for all) Learning Environment & Curriculum

LE3 (lower ratios) LO1 (annual progress twice annually – all children) LO2 (screening & curriculum-based assessment – all children) LC1 (indoor and outdoor schedule)* LC2 (align curriculum w/ ELFs & supplemental HEPA curriculum)

*Denotes Early Care and Education Center Regulation: QT1 refers to Rules 177-180 LC1 refers to Rules 203, 215, 267, 379 & 382 Public School Programs Using Title I Funding Title I funded early childhood programs that are run directly by school districts will start with 18 points for Management and Administration, unless the school is “under review” by DDOE. The analysis shows that public schools already meet the following standards in Management & Administration: MP1, MO1, MO2, MO4, MO5 and MF1; and the program may choose to meet MO3 (staff meetings for all staff). Since there are no required quality standards with an appropriate oversight for Title I, in order to participate in Delaware Stars and achieve a star rating, the public school’s Title I funded program must select and verify relevant standards in Family & Community Partnerships, Qualifications & Professional Development, and Learning Environment & Curriculum. Each program will choose the standards it wants to achieve and/or add to the Quality Improvement Plan (QIP). In addition, programs are required to have an ERS and meet scoring guidelines for Star 3, 4, and 5. Public School Programs Using Local Funding/Parent Fee Public Schools using local funding and/or parent fees, directly run by school districts, will start with 15 points for Management & Administration unless the school is “under review” by DDOE. The analysis shows that public schools already meet the following standards in Management & Administration: MO1, MO2, MO4, MO5 and MF1; the program may choose to meet MO3 (staff meetings for all staff) and/or MP1 (paid planning time). Since there are no uniform quality or oversight standards for these programs, in order to participate in Delaware Stars and achieve a star rating, the program must select and verify the standards in Family & Community Partnerships, Qualifications & Professional Development, and Learning Environment & Curriculum. Each program will choose the standards it wants to achieve and/or add to the Quality Improvement Plan (QIP). In addition, programs are required to have an ERS and meet


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scoring guidelines for Star 3, 4, and 5. Public School Programs that Secure a Child Care License, Enroll and Participate in Purchase of Care Public schools that elect to obtain a child care license and enroll and participate in Purchase of Care start in Delaware Stars with a total of 15 points for Management and Administration for Delaware Stars, following the policy articulated under Public Schools Using Local Funding/Parent Fee, and then participate in Stars by selecting and verifying selected standards in Family & Community Partnerships, Qualifications & Professional Development, and Learning Environment and Curriculum. Each program will choose the standards it wants to achieve and/or add to the Quality Improvement Plan (QIP). In addition, programs are required to have an ERS and meeting scoring guidelines for Stars 3, 4 and 5. Programs that participate in Stars in this manner are eligible for Tiered Reimbursement. Public School Programs with Blended Funding Programs Public School early childhood programs using blended funds (e.g. any combination of ECAP, Part B/619, Title I, Local Funds and/or Parent Fees) follow the requirements set forward by its most rigorous funding stream for 100% of the children in the program, the Stars policy for the most rigorous program would apply. However, if blended funding includes Part B/619, the entire site cannot achieve higher than Star 3 unless it meets the LRE requirement. If the program does not apply the most rigorous funding stream requirements to 100% of the children in the program, then the program will need to meet the Stars requirements as applicable to each specific funding stream. Stars Level Designations Based on Facility Delaware Stars is designed to operate at the facility level. This means that a public school that is operating more than one ECE program at a school will be designated one Star level for all programs at the location that the public school is operating. If different classrooms have different Star levels, it is the lowest Star level that will be the one designated for the school as a whole.

See Also: Announcement 2013 #4


9


Policy Private Schools

Date July 1, 2014

Revision(s)


Private Schools serving preschool children through 6th Grade are not required to be licensed by the Office of Child Care Licensing for the preschool portion of the program. The Department of Education requires that private schools be registered with the State but does not provide any oversight or have any requirements regarding staffing, curricula or physical facility. Private schools wishing to participate in Delaware Stars must either become licensed or be NAEYC accredited for the preschool portion of their services. Private schools that are accredited by Middle States Regional Accreditation may apply to participate in Delaware Stars but may need to meet additional criteria for acceptance.


10


Policy Program Commitment


Revision(s) July 1, 2014


Revision 7.1.14 Programs are asked to sign an Agreement to Participate in Tiered Reimbursement Bonus which will be necessary to receive any tiered payments should the program serve purchase of care children and become a Star Level 3 or higher. In order to be eligible for quality improvement grants, Programs must register as a vendor with the State and to provide either a current Delaware Business License number or a Non-Profit Determination letter. September 15, 2009 Programs participating in Delaware Stars are expected to make a commitment to improving quality. By making a commitment to improving quality, programs are acknowledging that their participation in Delaware Stars is a multi-step process that takes time and dedication by all staff with leadership from within their program. Once accepted, programs are required to sign the Letter of Expectations. This is an agreement between Delaware Stars and the program that outlines the key responsibilities and expectations for both parties. Programs will be given the Letter of Expectations at the first visit with the assigned Stars Technical Assistant. See Also: Letter of Expectations form Agreement to Participate in Tiered Reimbursement Bonus Guidance: How to Become a Vendor


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Policy Area Program Participation Requirements

Policy Starting with Stars

Date July 2012

Revision(s) April 1, 2013


Revision 4.1.13 Programs interested in Delaware Stars may participate in the online orientation session at any time. Programs that have applied to Delaware Stars may register to attend the Building on Quality 6-hour professional development session prior to formal acceptance into Stars. July 2012 After a program has been accepted for enrollment, the program has one year to complete the following:

Orientation session

Building on Quality (6-hour professional development session)

On-boarding visit from Stars Technical Assistant

Initial Quality Improvement Plan (QIP) After successful completion of each of the above components, the program is eligible to move up to Star Level 2. If the program does not achieve Star Level 2 within a year, the program will be terminated and must reapply for enrollment in Delaware Stars. (see also Policy on Termination) See Also: On-boarding Form


12


Policy Stars Plus Cohorts

Date July 2012

Revision(s)


Programs may be invited to participate in a Delaware Stars Plus Cohort. The Stars Plus Cohorts are an intensive technical assistance opportunity for a group of 10 programs and offers each program some additional resources to assist them in building program quality. Each program has access to weekly technical assistance at the classroom level, a monthly group meeting for directors to network, problem-solve and share in successes for quality improvement efforts and coordinated professional development opportunities. To be eligible for the Stars Plus Cohort, a program must serve high needs children and/or have 40% Purchase of Care children. Each program accepted to a cohort must sign a statement of commitment to participate. See Also: Stars Plus Cohort Statement of Commitment form


13


Policy Stars Database

Date April 2013

Revision(s)


The Delaware Stars database is a comprehensive database used by Delaware Stars staff and participating Delaware Stars programs. Programs have access to their program profile, staffing and classroom information. Programs select Stars standards and create a Quality Improvement Plan using the database. Some forms that programs use are also accessed and completed using the database. Delaware Stars staff utilize the database to record contacts with programs and to facilitate verification of standards. Some programs now have selected staff trained to update and maintain their own program profile, staff listing and classroom configuration data in the Stars database. In 2014 all programs will be required to update and maintain accurate profile information and data regarding classroom configuration and staffing.


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Policy Quality Improvement Planning


Revision(s)


Each Program is required to develop a Quality Improvement Plan (QIP), found on the Delaware Stars database, to outline the individual program’s specific goals for reaching quality. The technical assistant will help a program identify Stars standards that they want to meet and the efforts that will need to be made to achieve them. The first QIP is developed upon completing the Starting with Stars phase and then is reworked each time a program completes a Star Level and begins working toward the next level. Programs must maintain a QIP even if maintaining a Star Level rather than working toward a new Star Level.


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Policy Changes in the status of a program: Program Changes in Administration or Operation




Programs are required to inform Delaware Stars when there are significant changes in administration or operation of their program. Notification of significant changes should be made prior to implementation, but no later than 30 days of implementation. Failure to do so may jeopardize Stars grants and tiered reimbursement bonuses. Examples of such changes may include, but are not be limited to the following:

Change in ownership

Site location changes

Change in services such as beginning program for infants

In order to support programs that have been participating in Delaware Stars greater than one year, the following guidance is offered to facilitate continued participation in quality improvement efforts. Delaware Stars staff will coordinate with OCCL staff during the provisional phase. A program that has been enrolled in Delaware Stars for less than 6 months and has major changes in operation resulting in a change in license will have to reapply for admission. In addition to notifying Delaware Stars, programs may have to complete additional steps in the quality improvement process including being re-verified for a Star Level Designation. Some types of program changes may also place restriction on access to grants, tiered reimbursement or other resources. See Also: Program Changes Chart


16


Policy Critical Incidents

Date July 1, 2014

Revision(s)


Programs that experience a critical incident involving emergency response personnel or resulting in a police report must notify Delaware Stars Deputy Director via email within 24 hours. Incidents involving child death, severe injury or death of staff or others onsite, violent or criminal activity would require notification of the Delaware Stars Director or Deputy Director. Delaware Stars will follow the lead of the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) for incidents where an enforcement action is taken. However, in some instances where there is no enforcement action taken by OCCL, Delaware Stars reserves the right to defer a program’s active participation pending the results of an investigation. Programs temporarily deferred would not be allowed to advertise their Star Level, receive Grants or Tiered Reimbursement during the period of deferral.


REV. 8-11-14 17


Policy Changes in the status of programs: Programs on Enforcement from Office of Child Care Licensing


Revision Date

September 1, 2014; May 15, 2012


Revision 9.1.14 Effective September 1, 2014, Delaware Stars programs in receipt of Notice of Intent to Place on Enforcement Action from the Office of Child Care Licensing will be deferred from full participation in Delaware Stars until the Notice is withdrawn and the program is no longer under any enforcement action with Licensing. Programs under enforcement action by Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) will be deferred from full participation in Delaware Stars until deemed in good standing with OCCL and no longer under any enforcement action. Enforcement actions include any of the following actions: Warning of Probation (WOP), Probation (P), or Suspension (S). Programs deferred from Delaware Stars may not advertise their Star Level and during the period of enforcement action the program loses any designated Star Level. Programs under Licensing Enforcement actions are not eligible for tiered reimbursement and may not be eligible for grants during the time period of enforcement action. The Office of Child Care Licensing may Revoke a program and then the program would be considered closed as a Delaware Stars program with all services and incentives immediately terminated. Once a program is no longer under enforcement action with OCCL, Delaware Stars will re-verify the program for Star Level Designation. Programs cannot begin actively working toward a higher Star Level until re-verification is complete. Programs under Suspension by OCCL for a period of less than two months may be exempt from re-verification. During enforcement action by OCCL, Delaware Stars staff will collaborate closely with OCCL specialists to determine the most effective TA and action plan to assist the program. Programs will have access to some services and benefits from Delaware Stars dependent on the level of OCCL enforcement action (see attached Chart). See Also: Enforcement Action Chart Enforcement Action Notice Form


REV. 8-11-14 18

OCCL Enforcement Action

Delaware Stars Status and Database Record

Star Level Designation during Enforcement Action

Services available from Delaware Stars

Access to Tier Reimbursement Bonus

Re-Verification of Previous Star Level Designation

Notice of Intent to Place on Enforcement Action

Program will have “Hold” status (N) in database

None *May not advertise SLD and will be removed from SLD listing in Stars website

Technical assistance only No Grants

No Program must have new verification for SLD except when the Notice is for a period of less than 2 months

Warning of Probation (WOP)

Program will have “Hold” status (WOP) in database



No Program must have new verification for SLD

Probation (P) Program will have “Hold” status (P) in database



No Program must have new verification for SLD

Suspension (S)

Program will have a “Hold” status (S) in database


No services available

No Program must have new verification for SLD except when the suspension is for a period of less than 2 months

Revocation Revocation Program will be terminated from Delaware Stars and removed from database

None *May not advertise SLD and will be removed from Stars website

No services available

No Program must re-apply to Delaware Stars if they are issued a new license


19


Policy Stars Observation of OCCL Violations


Revision(s) May 9, 2014


Revision 5.9.14 Delaware Stars staff will utilize the Chart of Serious Non-Compliance as a guide for reporting licensing violations to the Office of Child Care Licensing when making onsite visits to participating programs. Delaware Stars staff will not be making observations specifically to evaluate licensing compliance, but in the course of making observations related to quality improvement or program assessment, if serious non-compliances are observed these will be reported to Stars administration and to Office of Child Care Licensing. September 15, 2009 Open and regular communication is anticipated between Delaware Stars staff and the Office of Child Care Licensing (OCCL) staff in building strategies to assist providers to ensure the safety of children in child care programs. Delaware Stars staff will use reasonable evaluation of observed situations while onsite in a participating licensed program.

• Any incident that puts a child in imminent danger, observed while onsite, shall be reported to OCCL immediately and will be documented in the program file.

• Persistent non-compliance issues as cited in the most recent OCCL compliance review, other on-going non-compliance documented by Delaware Stars staff, and/or reports to program Administrator that result in continued unresponsiveness from program will also be reported and documented.

See Also: Serious Non-Compliance Chart


20

Policy Area Program Participation Requirement

Policy Mandatory Reporting of Abuse and Neglect


Revision(s)


All Delaware Stars staff are mandatory reporters of suspected child abuse and neglect. Delaware Stars follows the DSCYF Mandatory Reporting guidelines set forth by the Division of Services for Children, Youth, and their Families (DSCYF). Guidelines and the mandatory reporting form can be found at: http://kids.delaware.gov/fs/fs_iseethesigns.shtml#iseeHowToReport


21


Policy Programs Terminating from Delaware Stars


Revision(s) January 1, 2013


Revision 1.1.13 A program may be terminated if the initial requirements of participation have not been met within one year from acceptance in Delaware Stars. September 15, 2009 Programs may withdraw at any time by notifying Delaware Stars in writing. Once withdrawn, programs may not advertise their participation or Star Level and are not eligible for tiered POC reimbursement or other Delaware Stars incentives or services. Programs are also required to return their Delaware Stars banner. If a program chooses to reapply to Delaware Stars at a later time, they will re-enter Delaware Stars as a new program and must complete all initial requirements for participating in Delaware Stars. Delaware Stars will terminate a program in instances where the program closes or is no longer licensed due to revocation of the license. See Also: Withdrawal form


22

Policy Area Program Resources and Supports

Policy Technical Assistance


Revision(s)


Programs are assigned a Technical Assistant (TA) upon confirmation of their acceptance into Delaware Stars and are contacted by their assigned TA to schedule the on-boarding visit shortly after. From this point forward, the TA is the program’s primary contact for Delaware Stars and will guide and assist the program through the quality improvement process. In the Starting with Stars phase, programs receive one to two visits from their TA with the goals of completing the on-boarding observation with feedback and the initial QIP. The on-boarding observation includes an environment scan of each classroom or all child care areas in the program. These visits are usually with the program’s Administrator and/or the person designated to lead the quality improvement efforts within the program. Programs at Star Levels 2, 3, and 4 that are actively working towards a higher Star Level receive visits from their TA approximately twice per month. Programs at Star Level 5 or that are maintaining at a lower Star Level may receive TA in preparation for re-verification. Preparation for the ERS assessment and for meeting the standards the program has chosen to complete shape the focus of the TA visit with the program. TA visits are recorded in the Stars database. Visits may include meeting with the program’s Administrator or the person designated to lead the quality improvement efforts within the program; meeting with individual or small groups of classroom staff; presenting information and guidance to a larger group of program staff; and classroom observation. TAs may utilize multiple strategies to assist programs and individual classroom staff in their quality improvement efforts. These strategies include mentoring, coaching, and technical assistance. Technical Assistance to Cohorts Some programs may be accepted into Delaware Stars as a group, or cohort. Cohorts will be assigned one TA and will meet regularly and receive technical assistance and professional development as a group in addition to higher frequency on-site TA visits. Caseload Ratios, Qualifications and Training Full-time TAs will have a caseload up to 40 programs or approximately 10 programs if assigned to a Stars Cohort. Current caseload, program demographics and


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characteristics (location, size, type, configuration of age groups, etc.), possible conflicts of interest (the TA has vested interest in program, was previously employed by program, or has a personal or business relationship with an employee at the program), and expertise of the TA will be considerations for determining program assignment. Caseloads may periodically be reviewed and re-assignments made based on caseload size and overall program demographics, case review, TA request, program request, or other determinations. Technical Assistants are specifically recruited to work with programs in Delaware Stars. Successful applicants must have a Bachelor’s in early childhood or closely related field and experience in working with early childhood programs. Training of a newly hired Delaware Stars TA takes place over a period of several months with responsibilities being integrated appropriately shortly after hire. Position-specific training is facilitated by the TA Coordinator while organization specific training (human resource policies, benefit information, financial procedures and policies, etc.) will be completed by the hiring organization, if applicable. The TA Coordinator collaborates with the hiring organization to set and coordinate the training schedule. Under DIEEC guidelines, all Delaware Stars TAs must qualify as Master Instructors, be registered as Technical Assistants with DIEEC, and complete all professional development as required. Competencies and requirements can be found on the DIEEC website. See Also: TA Observation Form


24


Policy Stars Plus Cohort Resources

Date July 2012

Revision(s)


Stars Plus Cohort programs have access to special grants and tailored group professional development. Programs will work with the cohort technical assistant to identify grant needs and request grants as outlined in the Stars Plus Cohort Grant Procedures and utilizing the Stars Plus Grants Tracking form. Programs may request coordinated professional development in accordance with the Stars Plus Cohort Guidelines for Professional Development and utilizing the request form. See Also: Stars Plus Cohort Professional Development Guidelines Stars Plus Cohort Grant Procedures Stars Plus Cohort Request for PD form Stars Plus Cohort Grant Tracking form


25


Policy Practice Assessment

Date July 2013

Revision(s)


Programs may request one practice assessment as they are working towards improving quality to meet minimum score requirements for the Star Level they wish to achieve. Programs should consult with their TA to determine the ideal time to request a practice assessment. For practice assessments, programs choose the classroom to be assessed but are encouraged to choose their weakest classroom. Practice assessments and feedback are completed in the same way as verification assessments. The Request for Practice ERS Assessment can be found on the Delaware Stars website and must be completed and given to the program’s TA for sign off and submission to Delaware Stars. Programs with only one room or setting may also use the practice assessment score for the Star Level Designation. An example is Family Child Care, where there is only one setting that is being observed and assessed and the program may choose to use the score of the practice assessment for the Star Level Designation.


26


Policy Curriculum Selection and Review for Early Childhood Programs

Date May 1, 2013

Revision(s)


Programs working to verify the Stars Standard regarding using a formal curriculum will need to have the chosen curriculum approved. Programs may choose from the listing of the Delaware Summary of Approved Curriculum posted on the Delaware Stars website at http://www.delawarestars.udel.edu. Programs may already have a curriculum they utilize or may wish to develop their own curriculum. In this case, a program must then complete the Comprehensive Curriculum Rubric form with the support of the assigned Technical Assistant and submit a copy of the written curriculum and the rubric form to the Delaware Stars Deputy Director for approval. See Also: Comprehensive Curriculum Rubric form Guidance—What Is a Comprehensive Curriculum Guidance—Summary of Approved Curriculum Guidance—Supplementary Curriculum for Nutrition and Physical Activity Announcement 2013 #2

http://www.delawarestars.udel.edu/


27


Policy Early Childhood Formative Assessment

Date July 1, 2014

Revision(s)


Programs implementing the Delaware Stars Standard regarding using a formative early childhood assessment must choose an approved assessment tool. Programs may choose from the Delaware list of Approved Formative Assessments or submit a copy of an alternative tool for approval along with a completed Formative Assessment Review form to the Delaware Stars Deputy Director. See Also: Formative Assessment Review form Guidance—Approved Formative Assessments


28

Policy Area Program Resources and Support

Policy School Age Curriculum Framework Date May 8, 2014

Revision(s)


Delaware Stars programs serving children ages 5 to 12 will utilize the Delaware Curriculum Framework when implementing Standards related to curriculum. The Framework provides guidance in the development of learning goals and activities for school age children. See Also: Guidance—School Age Curriculum Framework


29


Policy School Age Child/Youth Assessment

Date May 8, 2014

Revision(s)


Programs serving children ages 5 to 12 will utilize the Assessment Rubric and Guide in meeting the Stars Standards related to child and youth assessment. Beginning July 1, 2016 programs serving children ages 5 to 12 will be required to implement three components of assessment; staff observation, child questionnaire and/or interview and family questionnaire. See Also: Guidance—Assessment Guide


30


Policy T.E.A.C.H. Scholarship Support for Staff of Stars Programs

Date July 2011

Revision(s)


Teaching staff of Delaware Stars programs have priority access to T.E.A.C.H. scholarships. T.E.A.C.H. participants are sponsored by their employer to work on attaining degrees in early childhood from Delaware institutions of higher education. The scholarship plan can include reimbursement for books and travel as well as stipends to the program for release time of the student. Delaware Association for the Education of Young Children sponsors the T.E.A.C.H. program. For additional information on T.E.A.C.H. call 302-764-1501 or www.daeyc.org

http://www.daeyc.org/


31


Policy Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation

Date July 2012

Revision(s)


Delaware Stars programs have access to early childhood mental health consultation through Division of Prevention and Behavioral Services. This service is free and assists programs in addressing and supporting young children’s social/emotional development. For further information contact 302-781-3211.


32


Policy New Resources to Support Program Quality

Date April 1, 2013



Revision 6.1.14 Delaware Stars will offer a new resource:

Specialty Technical Assistance for Curriculum and Assessment April 1, 2013 Delaware Stars offers specialized resources to participating Stars programs to support their movement strategies. These resources are available to programs at Star Levels 2 through 5 and are tied to the program’s Quality Improvement Plan (QIP). Program eligibility for each resource is individually determined. The five new resources are:

Compensation, Retention and Education Awards (CORE)

Comprehensive Child Screening-ASQ

Infrastructure Funds

Health and Nutrition Specialty Technical Assistance

Infant/Toddler Specialty Technical Assistance

Environment Rating Scale (ERS) Specialty Technical Assistance Delaware Stars technical assistants will provide programs with information on these resources See Also: Announcement 2013 #5


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Policy Program Grants


Revision(s) July 1, 2013; March 1, 2012; July 1, 2014


Revision 7.1.14 Merit Awards will no longer be given to programs achieving new Star Levels as of July 1, 2014. Grant amounts will be based on each program’s child enrollment numbers.

Program Type # Enrolled Children Grant Award

Family Child Care Up to 6 + 3 Up to $750

Large Family Child Care Up to 12 + 2 Up to $1,000

Small ECE Center 13-60 Up to $2,500

Medium ECE Center 61-120 Up to $3,000

Large ECE Center 121-200 Up to $4,000

Extra Large ECE Center 201-300 Up to $5,000

Program Type # Enrolled Children* Grant Award

Small SA Center 13-60 Up to $1,000

Medium SA Center 61-120 Up to $1,500

Large SA Center 121 + Up to $2,000 *Enrollment is based on one of the following months: October, February or May

Programs will be eligible for one grant as they work toward a new Star Level in moving from Star 2 to Star 3, Star 3 to Star 4 and Star 4 to Star 5. Programs that verify and do not move up a level or move back a level are not eligible for another grant as they prepare for verification of the next Star Level. Programs may be ineligible for grants if they are under enforcement actions with the Office of Child Care Licensing, have significant changes occurring in the program administration or operation or if they have been administratively or financially sanctioned by any government office or agency. Programs that have IRS liens or court issued judgments may not be eligible for grants. In addition, programs that cannot show evidence of having expended previous grant funds in accordance with the original grant request will not be eligible for new grants. In order for Department of Education to issue a grant payment Programs must be registered as vendors with the State and have a current Delaware Business License


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number or indicate non-profit status on the Delaware Stars database. Non-Profit Programs must also submit a Non-Profit Determination letter to Delaware Stars. Revision 7.1.13 Grants and awards are administered by the DOE. Programs must be vendors with the state of Delaware to access funds. Procedures for becoming a vendor may be found at: https://dew9.accounting.delaware.gov/accounting/w-9.nsf/w9!OpenForm. Programs are expected to have a record keeping system in place to track funding received from Delaware Stars. Documentation including proof of purchases and receipts are to be kept according to tax guidelines. Delaware Stars reserves the right to review documentation at any time and programs may be subject to audit for funds received by the State of Delaware. Revision 3.1.12 Grants are available based on annual funding determinations to programs at Star Levels 2, 3, and 4 that are actively working toward the next Star Level. Grant requests must relate to goals on a program’s QIP and may be used for materials and/or professional development. Grant funding may not be used for materials or professional development that is required to meet licensing standards. Merit Awards are given to programs for achievement of Star Levels 3, 4, and 5. (Not available as of July 1, 2014) See Also: Guidelines for Grants and Agreement (July 2014) Announcement 2013 #8


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Policy Purchase of Care Tiered Reimbursement Incentive

Date July 1, 2011



Revision 7.1.14 Early Childhood programs, including Family and Large Family Child Care, at Star Level 4 and Star Level 5 will receive increased tiered reimbursement percentages beginning July 1, 2014. The increase will be for infants, toddlers and preschool children. The increase does not include school age children. The increases will be 93% of the 2011 market rate for Star 4 programs and 102% of the 2011 market rate for Star 5 programs. School age children with POC will continue to be reimbursed at 90% in Star 4 programs and 100% in Star 5 programs. All programs at Star 3 will continue to receive 80% reimbursement for all children with POC regardless of the child’s age. Payments for the months of July, August and September 2014, which will be made at the end of November 2014, will reflect the new increases. Programs may be ineligible for tiered reimbursement if they are under enforcement actions with the Office of Child Care Licensing, have significant changes occurring in the program administration or operation or if they have been administratively or financially sanctioned by any government office or agency. Programs that have IRS liens or court issued judgments may not be eligible for tiered reimbursement. Programs are expected to utilize tiered reimbursement funds for the continued operation of a quality program. Administrators and or owners are asked to sign an agreement of understanding regarding the purpose and use of tiered reimbursement. July 1, 2011 Programs accepting POC are reimbursed at 65% of the 75th percentile of market rate plus $.50 for each eligible child. Beginning at Star Level 3, programs serving POC children receive reimbursement at 80% of market rate; programs at Star Level 4 receive reimbursement at 90% of market rate; and programs at Star Level 5 receive reimbursement at 100% of market rate. The tiered reimbursement incentive payment is the difference between the 65% already being received by a program and the amount the program would be eligible to receive at either 80%, 90% or 100% of the 2011 market rate according to the program’s Star Level Designation. (Revised rates July 2014) Tiered reimbursement begins the first of the month in which the verification visit that determined the program’s Star Level was completed. For example, if the verification


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visit was completed on April 30, the program would receive tiered reimbursement from April 1. The amount of tiered reimbursement is based on the attendance of POC children, the ages of the children, the county location of the program and the type of program as well as the program’s Star Level. Tiered reimbursement is a separate payment to programs; the regular POC payment is paid monthly from the Division of Health & Social Services, and the additional tiered reimbursement payment (the difference between their regular payment and the tier level) is paid quarterly at the end of February, May, August and November. See Also: FAQ for programs (July 1, 2014) Vendor information Agreement to Participate Form Announcement 2013 #7


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Policy Program Use of Stars Logo and Promotional Materials

Date April 16, 2013

Revision(s) September 15, 2009


Revision 4.16.13 Programs at Star Level 2 through 5 may display the Delaware Stars banner and use the official logo in promotional materials promoting their program in accordance with the Usage and Guidelines document. September 15, 2009 Delaware Stars programs with a Star Level Designation of 2, 3, 4 or 5 may utilize the Delaware Stars logo to promote their program as an indicator of quality. Programs may display the Stars banner and advertise their Star Level Designation. Programs on “deferred” status with Delaware Stars due to licensing enforcement actions or programs that have voluntarily or involuntarily been terminated from Delaware Stars may not advertise a Star Level Designation, display the Delaware Stars banner or use any materials displaying the Delaware Stars logo in connection with the program name or promotion of the program. See Also: Announcement 2013 #1 Delaware Stars Logo Usage and Guidelines


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Delaware Stars Logo Usage and Guidelines

Do:

Always use the electronic or hard copy reproduction art provided to reproduce the Delaware Stars logo. The Stars logos above are available as JPG files on the Stars DIEEC website.

Keep all elements of the logo together.

Always position the logo in a clear area free from other text and graphics.

Use only the official colors when reproducing the logo in more than one color.

Enlarge or reduce the full logo proportionately. For example, do not change the size of the type in relation to the start, or vice versa.

Use the logo along with your own unique branding (e.g. logo, letterhead, etc.), making sure the Stars logo stands apart from any other graphic or text.

Include the logo on your website if you are a Stars program, or are promoting Stars.

Include the logo on promotional materials for your program.

Replace any old logos with this new logo, on or before April 30, 2013.

Discontinue any use of another Stars logo – use only the Stars logo above. Do not:

Alter the logo in any way.

Add any new elements without approval from the Office of Early Learning.

Scan, redraw, stretch or change the logo in any way.

Change the colors.

Use the logo to refer to any service p than Delaware Stars.

Use the Delaware Stars logo in promotional material representing an early childhood care and education programs after the program is no longer part of Delaware Stars.


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Policy Area Program Designation

Policy Program Standards


Revision(s) July 1, 2014; December 20, 2011


Revision 7.1.14 Some Standards, known as Essential Standards, will become mandatory for programs beginning 2015-2016. For all Early Childhood programs (includes Family and Large Family Child Care and Centers), the following Standards must be met when verifying or re-verifying for Star Level 4 or 5:

Child Developmental Screening January 2015

Child Formative Assessment January 2016

Early Childhood Comprehensive Curriculum July 2016 For all Early Childhood programs (includes Family and Large Family Child Care and Centers) the following Standard must be met when verifying or re-verifying for Star Level 5:

Integration of Child Observation and Curriculum July 2016 For all Early Childhood Center-based programs the following Standards must be met when verifying or re-verifying for Star 4 or 5:

Designated Administrator Obtains Administration Credential July 2015

Designated Curriculum Coordinator Obtains Curriculum & Assessment Credential July 2016

July 1, 2014, December 20, 2011, September 15, 2009 Programs work toward higher quality through choosing Standards to implement and developing a Quality Improvement Plan. The Delaware Stars Standards are divided into 4 domains:

Family & Community Partnerships


Management & Administration

Learning Environments & Curriculum


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Each domain contains numerous Standards, which are considered indicators of quality and indicate the practice that programs need to implement to achieve higher quality. The Delaware Stars Verification Manuals provide additional details and explanation about the required verification for each Standard and may be found on the Delaware Stars website. There are four sets of Standards for the different program types: Early Childhood Centers, School-Age Centers, Family Child Care and Large Family Child Care. Each type of program is scored using the following score range to determine the Star Level Designation. Star Rating required points : Star Level 3 40-59 points Star Level 4 60-79 points Star Level 5 80-100 points See Also: Large Family Child Care Standards School-Age Standards Family Child Care Standards Early Childhood Center Standards


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Policy Program Assessment: Environment Rating Scales




Revisions 7.1.14 After July 1, 2014 the Environment Rating Scales subscales on Personal Care Routines (selected items for the SACERS related to health and personal care-item numbers 12-19 and 28) will no longer be a part of the score used to determine the program’s Star Level Designation. Scoring will be adjusted to reflect the elimination of these items (see also Policy on Program Assessment: Verification) September 15, 2009 The Environment Rating Scales are tools used to assess the quality of early care environments and are the measure for assessment chosen by Delaware Stars. There are four scales, each used to assess a specific age group: The Infant/Toddler Environment Rating Scale – Revised (ITERS-R) is used to assess classrooms where the majority of children are birth to 36 months. Large Family Child Care programs may be assessed using this scale if they only serve children in this age group. The subscale on Parents and Staff is not being used in Delaware Stars. The subscale on Personal Care Routines will not be a part of the program score after July 1, 2014. The Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale - Revised (ECERS-R) is used to assess classrooms where the majority of children are 36 months up until the first day of Kindergarten. Large Family Child Care programs may be assessed using this scale if they only serve children in this age group. The subscale on Parents and Staff is not being used in Delaware Stars. The subscale on Personal Care Routines will not be a part of the program score after July 1, 2014. The School-Age Environment Rating Scale (SACERS) is used to assess classrooms or groups of children from Kindergarten through the 6th grade. Large Family Child Care programs may be assessed using this scale if they only serve children in this age group. Items 10,11,34,35,41,42 and 43 are not being used in Delaware Stars. The Family Child Care Rating Scale – Revised (FCCERS-R) is used to assess the unique features of the multi-age environment of Family Child Care and Large Family Child Care programs. The subscale on Parents and Providers is not being used in


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Delaware Stars. The subscale on Personal Care Routines will not be a part of the program score after July 1, 2014. The scales were developed by staff at the Frank Porter Graham (FPG) Child Development Institute at the University of North Carolina. Each scale is grounded in research, rigorously field tested, proven valid and reliable, and continually updated for clarity and to reflect best practice and current research in the early childhood field. Additional information and updates to the scales can be found at: http://www.ersi.info/index.html The Delaware Stars Clarifications are required to be used with the Environment Rating Scales and can be found on the Delaware Stars website. The clarifications include information from Delacare Rules, explanations from the All About the ECERS-R and All About the ITERS-R books, and additional information identified by Delaware Stars that will be included in the assessments.

http://www.ersi.info/index.html


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Policy Program Assessment: ERS Clarifications




Revision 7.1.14 Delaware Stars Clarifications will be reviewed and updated as necessary annually. September 15, 2009 The Delaware Stars Clarifications are required to be used with Environment Rating Scales and can be found on the Delaware Stars website. The clarifications include information from Delacare Rules, explanations from the All About the ECERS-R and All About the ITERS-R books, and additional information identified by Delaware Stars that are included in assessments.


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Policy Program Assessment: Verification


Revision(s) July 1, 2014; December 20, 2011


Revision 7.1.14 As of July 1, 2014 the required classroom scores will be as follows: Star Level 3 3.40 Star Level 4 4.40 Star Level 5 5.40 Revision 12.20.11 Programs request verification when they believe that they are ready to be successful in achieving the next Star Level Designation. All programs will be re-verified every three years regardless of a request for new Star Level Designation. Some programs may be subject to a re-verification when significant changes or enforcement actions have occurred. Programs not making the score necessary to move to the next Star Level will be allowed to request re- verification after 3 months have passed. If a program misses the intended score due to one classroom for one of the age groups assessed, the program may be eligible for an abbreviated re-assessment within 60 days. Programs which have had recent reports made to OCCL of violations observed by Delaware Stars staff will not be eligible for the abbreviated re-assessment option. September 15, 2009 Once a program has requested verification, that program will have a window of time for scheduling the ERS assessment. On the day of the assessment, if the program has an unusual circumstance, for example, a classroom teacher is unexpectedly absent, they may elect to continue with the assessment by signing a waiver. Upon successful completion of the ERS assessment with a score that indicates an increase in Star Level, a Stars verifier reviews the standards the program is seeking to meet and verifies the score for Star Level Designation. Programs that make the score to move to the next Star Level Designation are awarded that Star level by the Deputy Director for Delaware Stars and will be sent a notice and certificate by Department of Education.


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ERS Assessment by program type: For centers: Once a verification request is received, classroom assessments are scheduled for 1/3 of each age group enrolled in the program. Classrooms and alternate classrooms are randomly chosen. For infant, toddler, preschool and school age classrooms in a center: Programs will not be informed of which classrooms/groups will be assessed until the assessor(s) arrive on the date of assessment. Alternate classrooms are only assessed if, on the day of assessment, the first classroom chosen would not reflect a typical day (for example, the lead staff person is out sick, the class is going on a field trip, etc.). Assessors will arrive between 8:00 am and 8:30 am the day of the assessment. They will meet briefly with the Administrator and then proceed to the classroom being assessed. They will ask a series of questions of the lead staff person in the classroom to frame the observation, but once the observation begins, they are not allowed to interact with staff or children. A typical assessment may last between 3-4 hours, but may take longer to ensure mealtime and nap is observed, if they are regular components of the classroom schedule. It is typical that multiple Assessors are scheduled for the assessment of a large program where multiple classrooms are being assessed. After the observation ends, the lead staff member will need a period of time when they are not responsible for the care of children to answer questions to complete the assessment. Administrative staff are not interviewed as part of the assessment process. The playground and any indoor gross motor area need to be accessible to the assessor, regardless of whether it is used the day of the assessment so that items related to those areas may be assessed. The assessment is incomplete if these areas are not assessed. This applies to all scales. For school-age classrooms in a center or school-age programs: During the school-year, programs will be informed which school-age classrooms/groups will be assessed when the assessment is scheduled, so arrangements can be made in advance for the lead staff to arrive or be available an hour before afterschool care begins to answer questions for the assessment. Usually, additional time is needed at the end of the observation for questions that were not observed or answered prior to the observation. These assessments usually last up 3 hours, depending upon when the children arrive and when the center closes or the hours of the after-school program. For school-age program assessments during the summer when children are in care all day, the same format described above for infant, toddler, and preschool classrooms will be followed. For school-age programs on school campuses, it is the program’s responsibility to


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insure that school personnel know that Delaware Stars staff will be on their campus prior to the assessment to interview program staff and that assessors must have access to the playground as part of the assessment. For the FCCRS assessment of Family Child Care and Large Family Child Care programs: Assessments will be scheduled to take place on a typical day. Assessors will arrive between 8:00 am and 8:30 am the day of the assessment. They will ask a series of questions to frame the observation, but once the observation begins, they are not allowed to interact with the provider or children. A typical assessment may last between 3-4 hours, but may take longer to ensure mealtime and nap is observed, if they are regular components of the program schedule. After the observation ends, the provider will need to be available for a period of time to answer questions to complete the assessment. As of July 1, 2014 the Star Rating required classroom scores: Star Level 3 3.40 Star Level 4 4.40 Star Level 5 5.40 Assessors cannot answer specific questions related to an observation, provide feedback, or provide technical assistance to the program. Assessment results and summaries are given to the program’s TA to provide feedback and technical assistance around any areas identified as needing improvement. Delaware Stars Assessors are rigorously trained to reliability and participate in on-going reliability assessments to maintain their status as reliable assessors. See Also: ERS Waiver form Verification Approval form


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Policy Appeals


Revision(s) July 1, 2014; February 21, 2012


Revision 7.1.14 During an appeal, the Program retains the current Star Level Designation and the same tiered reimbursement level until the determination is complete. February 21, 2012 The Appeals Process regarding ERS assessments, verification for Star Level Designations and suspension from Delaware Stars is posted on the Delaware Stars website. The Appeals Process involves two levels of review with the first level as an internal review and the second level a review by the Stars Management Team, including state agency members. The request form for appeals, the Technical Review/Dispute Resolution Form, is posted on the Delaware Stars website. See Also: Appeal Procedures Level 1 Technical Review form Level 2 Technical Review form


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Appeals Process

Overview: The appeals process for Delaware Stars for Early Success involves two separate processes, the Technical Review Process and the Dispute Resolution Process. A program may choose to participate in either or both processes. The purpose of these processes is to ensure that an accurate Rating is arrived at for any participating program and that any other grievances are addressed through due process. The Dispute Resolution Process may also be used to appeal a decision to terminate a program from Delaware Stars. Changes in a program or issues that arise from an assessment must be considered through one of these processes. Technical Review: Level 1 Review A program may initiate a Technical Review of its ERS rating or Standards review within 30 calendar days of the date that the program received its rating results or verification review of Standard for a Star Level Designation. The purpose of the Technical Review is to correct errors in documentation or calculations in the rating or if there were discrepancies in how Standards were verified. To initiate a Technical Review a program must complete a “Request for Technical Review/Dispute Resolution Form” available on the Stars website. On this form the program should indicate error(s) in the ERS rating or Standards verification and provide documentation of the correct information. The Deputy Director and the Assessment Coordinator or Verification Specialist (as appropriate for the Review) will evaluate the Request form and accompanying documentation. This evaluation and determination of error(s) is at the sole discretion of the Delaware Stars. If the review reveals any errors, then the program’s rating score(s) will be adjusted and documentation will be generated (both in paper and electronic forms where appropriate) for the program indicating the new rating. Delaware Stars will issue a decision on a Level 1 Technical Review within 30 calendar days of its initiation. Errors brought forward after the 30 day period following the receipt of the ERS rating results or Verification for Star Level Designation will not be subject to review. Level 2 Review If the program continues to not be satisfied with the results of the ERS rating or Verification for Star Level Designation, they may request a review by the Management Team for Delaware Stars. The request for the second level of review must be submitted within 10 days of receipt of the Level 1 Review. The program must submit any accompanying documentation with the request for review. The program should provide specific reasons as to why they do not agree with the report and response to the Level 1


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Dispute. The Management Team for Delaware Stars will review the request form and accompanying documentation. Delaware Stars will issue a decision by the Management Team on a Level 2 Technical Review within 30 calendar days of its initiation. Issues brought forward after the 10 day period following the receipt of the Level 1 Technical Review from Delaware Stars will not be subject to further review.

Dispute Resolution: Level 1 Review A program may initiate a Dispute Resolution Process within 30 calendar days of receiving its ERS ratings results or Verification of Star Level Designation. This process is used to address instances where established Delaware Stars protocols were not used with fidelity, to address instances where any component of the rating was applied inappropriately or to address instances of inappropriate or unprofessional actions on the part of a Delaware Stars employee or subcontract employee of Delaware Stars that resulted in an incorrect rating. To initiate a Dispute Resolution a program must complete a “Request for Technical Review/Dispute Resolution Form” available on the Stars website. On this form the program should indicate in detail, using additional pages if necessary, the scope of the problem and provide as much documentation as possible. The Assessment Coordinator, Senior Technical Assistant, and Deputy Director for Delaware Stars will review the request form and accompanying documentation. This evaluation and determination of error(s) is at the sole discretion of Delaware Stars. If the review reveals any errors then the program’s rating score(s) will be adjusted and documentation will be generated (both in paper and electronic forms where appropriate) for the program indicating the new rating and/or Star Level Designation. Should the review reveal improper actions on the part of a Delaware Stars employee, these matters will be handled internally by Delaware Stars. Delaware Stars will issue a decision on a Level 1 Dispute Resolution within 30 calendar days of its initiation. Issues brought forward after the 30 day period following the receipt of the ERS rating results or Verification for Star Level Designation will not be subject to review. Level 2 Review If the program is not be satisfied with the results of the Dispute Resolution, they may request a review by the Management Team for Delaware Stars. The request for the second level of review must be submitted within 10 days of receipt of the Level 1 Review. The program must submit any accompanying documentation with the request for review. The program should provide specific reasons as to why they do not agree with the report and response to the Level 1 Dispute. The Management Team for Delaware Stars will review the request form and accompanying documentation.


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Delaware Stars will issue a decision by the Management Team on a Level 2 Dispute Resolution within 30 calendar days of its initiation. Issues brought forward after the 10 day period following the receipt of the Level 1 Dispute Resolution Report from Delaware Stars will not be subject to further review. Dispute Resolution for Suspension from Delaware Stars: Level 1 Review: A program may initiate a Dispute Resolution Process within 30 calendar days of receiving its letter terminating it from Delaware Stars. To initiate a Dispute Resolution a program must complete a “Request for Technical Review/Dispute Resolution Form” available on the Stars website. On this form the program should indicate in detail, using additional pages if necessary, reasons why the program should not be suspended from Delaware Stars and provide as much documentation as possible. The Management Team for Delaware Stars will review the request form and accompanying documentation. Review of suspension from Delaware Stars is at the sole discretion of Delaware Stars. The Management Team for Delaware Stars will review the request form and accompanying documentation. If sufficient information is available to determine that a program should not be suspended from Delaware Stars, the decision will be reversed. Delaware Stars will issue a decision by the Management Team on a Dispute Resolution for Suspension within 30 calendar days of its initiation. Issues brought forward after the 30 day period following the receipt of the letter suspending a program from Delaware Stars will not be subject to review. Level 2 Review for Suspension from Delaware Stars If the program is not be satisfied with the results of the Level 1 Dispute Resolution for Suspension, they may request a review by a designated State Team for Delaware Stars. This team will be determined by the Department of Education. The request for the second level of review must be submitted within 10 days of receipt of the Level 1 Review. The program must submit any accompanying documentation with the request for review. The program should provide specific reasons as to why they do not agree with the report and response to the Level 1 Dispute. The State Team will review the request form and accompanying documentation. Delaware Stars will issue a decision by the State Team on a Dispute Resolution for Suspension within 30 calendar days of its initiation. Issues brought forward after the 10 day period following the receipt of the Level 1 Dispute Resolution for Suspension Report from Delaware Stars will not be subject to further review.


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Policy Area Governance

Policy Governance of Delaware Stars

Date May 22,2013

Revision(s)


Delaware Stars is a state sponsored program with input from multiple state partners and community collaborators. The State contracts with University of Delaware Institute for Excellence in Early Childhood for the primary operation and implementation of Delaware Stars. The State contracts with multiple community partners for the delivery of additional resources and services to participating Stars programs. See Also: Delaware Stars Roles


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Delaware Stars Roles

Stars Leadership Team: Delaware Stars for Early Success initiative is co-managed by the Delaware Department of Education (Teaching and Learning Branch; Early Development and Learning Resources) and the Office of Early Learning. Through the co-management framework the combined offices work collaboratively to manage the direct responsibility for the establishment of policy and procedures along with implementation of the Stars program. The Stars Leadership team works with its Contracting Partners, along with key stakeholders such as state agencies, the IRMC and the Delaware Early Childhood Council to support the implementation of Stars. Stars Management Committee: This Committee, which consists of State agency partner representatives as well as the key community implementation partners, comes together to support and inform program and policy development, to make sure that all partners are well informed about the status of program implementation, and to share information and problem-solve about operations, and, as needed, design of the Initiative. Final decisions about Stars policy and program development and implementation are the responsibility of the Delaware Department of Education and the Office of Early Learning. The partner representatives on the Committee include: Children and Families First; Delaware Institute for Excellence in Early Childhood; Division of Family Services/Office of Child Care Licensing; Division of Social Services/Purchase of Care; Early Learning and Development Resources of DOE (including ECAP, Head Start Collaboration Office, Part B/Preschool Special Education); Easter Seals; Office of Early Learning; and Part C/Early Intervention. Contracting Partners: Stars has many partners, and during the course of 2013, additional partners are joining this group to implement new supports for the ongoing development of this program. Overall, the role of partners is to implement with quality; to inform program and policy development; to work cooperatively with the Department of Education and the Office of Early Learning; and to serve as champions and advocates for the program. Partners include:

Children and Families First: o Provision of T.A., as a subcontractor to the Institute; o Standards verification, as a subcontractor to the Institute; and o Project manager for the Infrastructure Fund

Delaware Association for the Education of Young Children: o Project manager, CORE Awards; o Project manager, provider advocacy; and o Project manager, T.E.A.C.H. scholarship program, which prioritizes Delaware Stars

Delaware Institute for Excellence in Early Childhood:


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o Stars program outreach and enrollment; o Provision of Technical Assistance to develop and support all facets of the Quality

Improvement Plans; o Scoring and verification; o Management of the Stars as well as ERS data base and reporting and analysis; , o Health and nutrition technical assistance; and o Professional Development System

Division of Prevention and Behavioral Health of the Children’s Department, which manages the Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation service, which prioritizes Delaware Stars programs

Easter Seals: o Provision of T.A., as a subcontractor to the Institute; o Standards verification, as a subcontractor to the Institute; and o Project manager, Ages and Stages training for Stars programs

Devona Goin Williams, family outreach events IRMC: The IRMC reviews, informs and supports strategic priorities to advance Delaware Stars, and acts as a champion and advocate for the Initiative. Pursuant to state law, the IRMC has administrative responsibility for the appropriations for the program. Delaware Early Childhood Council: The Council advises the State on the establishment and implementation of comprehensive services for young children with a focus on ensuring that children come to school ready to be successful, with Delaware Stars serving as a critical part of the state’s comprehensive approach. Through the Delaware Early Childhood Council High Quality Program and Professional Committee, multiple stakeholders come together to inform and influence program and policy development and implementation, and to serve as advocates for the Stars program.

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