Oklahoma Implements New Child Care Quality Standards
OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Human Services (DHS), in collaboration with the Oklahoma Partnership for School Readiness (OPSR), has announced significant updates to the state’s child care quality rating system. These changes aim to enhance the early child care infrastructure across Oklahoma, providing support for providers to meet new elevated standards.
Key revisions include a requirement for all 5-star child care programs to secure accreditation from a nationally recognized accrediting body in order to maintain their quality rating. In response to stakeholder feedback, DHS is reopening the submission portal and extending the deadline for licensed providers to submit proof of application for, or attainment of, accreditation until June 20, after the original deadline was set for April 10.
Providers struggling to meet the full accreditation deadline of September 1 can request an extension until September 12, 2025. Moreover, those showing substantial progress toward accreditation may receive additional time extensions through December 31. Further extensions may be granted for providers completing all necessary steps pending final decisions by their accrediting body.
Jaesha Quarrels, Director of Child Care Services at DHS, emphasized the commitment to ensuring high-quality care for Oklahoma children, stating, "National accreditation is the gold standard." To assist in this transition, $500,000 from the federal Preschool Development Grant will be allocated to support programs targeting accreditation. This funding will cover essential materials and provide access to hands-on support through regional Child Care Resource and Referral offices.
Carrie Williams, Executive Director of OPSR, expressed pride in the partnership’s efforts for viable solutions supporting providers. The changes have garnered praise from state representatives, including Gerrid Kendrix, Chair of the House Administrative Rules Committee, who acknowledged the proactive measures to promote higher standards within the child care system.
For more details about accreditation support or updated emergency rules, providers are encouraged to visit the respective announcement links.
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