The Maryland Child Care Credential Program

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THE MARYLAND CHILD CARE CREDENTIAL PROGRAM

1 CONTENTS

OVERVIEW 3

CREDENTIAL PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS & INFORMATION 4

INCENTIVES 5

CORE OF KNOWLEDGE 6

PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY UNITS 7

STAFF CREDENTIAL LEVELS 14

ADMINISTRATOR CREDENTIAL LEVELS 16

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 17

CREDENTIAL APPLICATION PROCESS 19

2 OVERVIEW

he Maryland Child Care Credential professional competencies to improve is a quality incentive program that the quality and stability of the child care recognizes child care providers workforce. Providers are required to Tfor exceeding the requirements of State take training in areas that address child licensing regulations. It is a career development in all domains of learning and ladder that directs an individual to build cultural competencies. knowledge and skills in a cumulative manner from introductory training to There are seven staff credential levels, and four administrator levels, Each level recognizes a child advanced level education. The progression care provider’s achievement of a specified number of of professional development reflects training, experience and professional activity important research and best practices to meet for providing quality child care environments. The the needs of infants and toddlers, and Maryland Child Care Credential is a voluntary program, preschool and school age children. It and all registered family child care providers and licensed child care center staff and administrators are aligns to foundational and specialized eligible and encouraged to apply.

PROGRAM GOALS

The major goals of the Credential Program are to: Produce a well-qualified workforce. Increase the overall quality of child care programs to ensure that all children enter school ready to succeed. Improve the status and increase compensation for child care providers. Recognize for-credit and non-credit career preparation. Provide a structure for professional growth through professional competencies.

3 CREDENTIAL PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS & INFORMATION

Approved training that has been completed within five years of the application date may be accepted as meeting the requirements of the core of knowledge. However, college coursework, whether for credit or non-credit, and pre-service will be accepted regardless of when it was completed.

You will need to take the appropriate training to meet your long-term goals. ELIGIBILITY The Maryland Child Care Credential – you must take training from an Office of Child Care (OCC) approved trainer, organization or an ou may participate in the Maryland accredited college or university. Child Care Credential Program if The Child Development Associate (CDA) youY are: – refer to the training requirements set by A registered family child care the National Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition. provider A college degree – courses taken for credit An operator, director, or staff from an accredited college or university. member (teacher, assistant teacher, MSDE teaching certification – check with or aide) in a licensed child care the Maryland State Department of Education center or letter of compliance Teacher Certification Branch for information. facility Call 410-767-0412 or 866-772-8922 for additional information.

APPLICATION TYPES Family child care providers or staff at child care centers applying for program accreditation should New - First time applicant for the Maryland check with the accrediting organization on any Child Care Credential Program. additional training criteria needed to meet the Renewal - To renew a current credential within accreditation standard. the required timeframe. Upgrade - To move to a higher level within the A Credential is issued for a 12-month period credentialed year. and may be renewed each year. Update - To reactivate an expired credential. Administrator credential level is not higher than HELPFUL INFORMATION staff credential level.

When you apply to participate in the Maryland Child INELIGIBILITY Care Credential program, you agree to: Continue working in a child care setting for no You may not participate in the Credentialing less than one year from the date you receive Program if you are the subject of any sanction your Maryland Child Care Credential; imposed by the Office of Child Care. Complete the required number of continued training to maintain your credential level and; Substitutes or volunteers, working in a registered Participate in the required number of family child care home or licensed child care professional activities related to the child care center, are not eligible to participate. profession to maintain your credential level. Child care center employees who do not work directly with children on a daily basis (regional/ district manager, administrative, maintenance, food service) are not eligible to participate.

4 INCENTIVES

here are incentives available to Tchild care providers who choose to For applications submitted by mail please send to participate in the Maryland Child Care MSDE-Credentialing Branch Credential Program. Incentives are 200 West Baltimore St. 10th Floor available to providers participating in Baltimore, MD 21201 the Credential Program at Level Two and higher. Incomplete applications will be returned. For more info visit: ACHIEVEMENT BONUSES http://earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org

Upon successful completion of the requirements, CHILD CARE CAREER AND PROFESSIONAL staff will be awarded a one-time only achievement bonus for credential levels two through four and DEVELOPMENT FUND (CCCPDF) administrator level one. Bonuses are awarded annually at staff levels four plus, five and six and The CCCPDF is a tuition assistance program for administrator credential levels two, three and four. child care providers to obtain a college education at participating colleges/universities in Maryland. Funding To receive an achievement bonus, a participant is available for child care providers to earn a college shall: degree in the following areas: Early Childhood Education Meet the requirements for level two or higher pursuant to COMAR 13A.14.09.05. Child Development Elementary Education Submit a complete renewal application that shows: Special Education Documentation of continued training, professional activities and Depending upon available funding, child care providers One year of continued employment in a participating in the Credential Program at level two licensed child care program. or higher with at least one year of documented experience are eligible to apply.

TRAINING VOUCHERS AND REIMBURSEMENT CCCPDF applicants must meet the following requirements to receive funds (COMAR 13A.14.09): Depending upon available funding, child care providers participating in the Credential Program at Participate in the Maryland Child Care Level Two or higher are eligible for training vouchers or Credential Program at Level Two or higher reimbursement for approved training. Work in a licensed child care center or be a registered family child care provider in During each 12 months of participation, up to $400 is Maryland and work at least 10 hours per week available to program participants to pay for the cost Fulfill entrance requirements at the of additional training needed to complete the training participating college of your choice plan. Vouchers may only be issued for conferences, Have at least one year of documented pre-service and college coursework. experience working with groups of children in an approved setting Training Voucher and Reimbursement Applications Maintain employment in a licensed Maryland can be submitted online or by mail. child care program while participating in the CCCPDF For online applications, participants must be Agree to complete the child care service able to upload required documents for each requirement in Maryland for at least 10 hours application. per week after completion of the degree Maintain at least a 2.50 cumulative GPA

5 CORE OF KNOWLEDGE

Core of Knowledge is defined as theories and practices that are essential for individuals working with children in family child care homes and child care centers. The core of knowledge is divided into six major areas: Child Development Professionalism Curriculum Special Needs Health, Safety & Nutrition Community Training may be taken from an Office of Child Care approved trainer, training organization or an accredited college or university. The six Core of Knowledge areas are listed in the chart that follows. Each bulleted item under the Core of Knowledge area identifies the content of a workshop or a component of a college class. The hours in parenthesis indicates the number of clock hours required to complete each Core of Knowledge area for credential level four.

CHILD DEVELOPMENT (45 clock hours) Child growth and development theories and Theories of respectful child guidance, behavior effects on child care and education modification, and behavior management Connections between development and learning Positive child guidance strategies and behavior Methods of observation and developmental expectations that promote pro-social behavior screening Research in early brain development Familial, cultural, and environmental influences Documentation of growth and learning, including on development stages of development Pace and range of development CURRICULUM (30 clock hours) Maryland Early Learning Standards which Learning experiences that help children develop incorporates and includes the Maryland’s College emerging intellectual curiosity, problem solving and Career Ready Standards, and Healthy and decision making skills, and critical thinking Beginnings. Use of formal and informal assessments to plan Significance of play, emergent curriculum in activities, individualize lessons, and improve development and learning quality Developmentally appropriate practices that focus Approaches to learning and learning styles on children’s development, interests/needs, and Planning appropriate environments for all children, consider culturally valued content and home including indoor and outdoor learning spaces experiences Anti-bias and cultural competency as it relates to the classroom environment and materials HEALTH, SAFETY AND NUTRITION (20 clock hours) Health practices Sanitation practices and procedures Safety management practices Developmentally appropriate supervision of all Illness and injury prevention children Emergency preparedness Adverse childhood experiences’ impact on Health and nutrition for all children to support children’s health and wellness development Resiliency Health record keeping and policy considerations NOTE - First Aid/CPR may not be counted toward this Identification and reporting of abuse, neglect, and Core of Knowledge area injurious treatment PROFESSIONALISM (15 clock hours) Current issues, trends, research, and opportunities Awareness of professional organizations and in the child care field associations, community resources, education Self-reflection and assessment opportunities, licensing regulations, and quality Professional standards and ethics, including improvement initiatives confidentiality, anti-bias, and cultural competency Financial/budget planning and management Coaching and mentoring Staff/program development, supervision, and Collaboration/collaborative process within the evaluation early childhood community Leadership, teambuilding, and conflict resolution Advocacy for children and child care Effective interaction and communication skills Human resources, marketing, and public relations Developing program policies and procedures

6 CORE OF KNOWLEDGE (con’t)

SPECIAL NEEDS (15 clock hours) Developmentally appropriate practices for children Inclusionary practices, including applicable laws, with varying developmental, emotional, cognitive, policies, and procedures language and/or physical needs Understanding IEP/IFSP implementation in child Supports including accommodations, adaptations, care programs modifications, inclusionary practices, and Design of inclusive and accessible learning Universal Design for Learning (UDL) environments Effective engagement and collaborations with Specific populations and medical considerations parents/families, professionals, agencies, and Awareness of resource and referral agencies, others to support children with disabilities, delays, organizations, and professionals and/or special health care needs

COMMUNITY (10 clock hours) Diverse family and community characteristics Family dynamics Support and engage families and communities Recognition of diversity within families and through respectful and reciprocal relationships communities Intentionally involve families and communities in Collaborative and supportive relationships children’s development and learning between child care programs and community Community resources that support children agencies, businesses, associations, professionals, and families and others Knowledge of/use of Maryland’s Family Engagement Framework and Toolkit

PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY UNITS

he Maryland Child Care Credential Completing approved training does not qualify Program includes requirements for as a professional activity. However, coursework T completed at an accredited college or university for participation in activities that contribute credit with a grade of C or higher will count as two to the professional growth and career (2) Professional Activity Units (PAUs). Please see development of those working in the field PAU chart for more details. of child care. These activity units are earned through participation in activities PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY UNITS (PAUs) that contribute to quality child care and the advancement of the profession. A PAU is the number assigned to an activity depending on the number of hours spent, level of effort, or commitment to an activity. PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES ARE THOSE THAT:

Engage the participant in the broader aspect of the PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY UNIT field of early childhood education as well as school- APPROVAL FORM age care. Increase the knowledge of others in and outside of For any professional activity not listed on the PAU the profession. chart, a Professional Activities Request Form must be Demonstrate active involvement in professional completed. The Office of Child Care – Credentialing activities that promote and support the workforce Branch will review the information submitted and make in ways such as workforce development and a determination within 60 days of receipt. A decision program improvement, ultimately improving letter will be sent via email. outcomes for children. increase competence, performance, and The following PAU charts provide examples of PAUs effectiveness of those working with children and are not a complete listing of possible activities. working in child care. 7 PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY UNITS

Participation in the Maryland Child Care Credential Program includes performing activities that contribute to the professional growth and career development of those working in the field of child care.

(1 Unit) Awarded for Each Professional Activity Performed

Unit Professional Activity Definition Documentation

Member of a local, state or national Requires participant to obtain Membership card or receipt 1 child care professional organization membership to a child care showing that membership fees (may count only one membership)* organization. have been paid.

Active Child Care Association Elected or appointed to perform Letter1 verifying that committee member some services or functions in participant is a member of that 1 an organization as a committee particular committee. member. Child Care Conference committee Serve as a member on a committee Letter1 indicating that member in the capacity of volunteering as a participant performs such 1 facilitator or contributing in the duties and a member of the planning of a local, state or national committee. conference. Child Care Center Event* Participate in a child care event that Letter1 from Center Director 1 is held at the center and parents are describing event and verifying invited to participate. participation.

Community Child Care Event (such Requires participation and/or Flyer full date (month, day and year) as Week of the Young Child (WOYC), volunteer work at a child care of the activity and verification letter1 festivals, community days) or fundraiser event. Ex: a center sets up a booth detailing duties performed. 1 campaign to benefit children to disseminate information, other child care resources, and promote their child care center. Responsible for the child care food The sole responsible person for Contract or certificate of program for the child care center or the child care food program for the continued training for the child home center or home. Please note: center care food program. 1 must participate in the Maryland Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). Presenter of in-service training or Requires the individual to conduct a Letter1 from director with 1 workshop for staff presentation to staff members. details of presentation.

Informal mentor Serve as an informal mentor for Letter1 from director verifying 1 high school students, child care mentorship. staff or family child care provider.

Serve on accreditation committee Participated in the accreditation Letter1 from the Director and 1 (center staff) Note: The year in which committee for a center going current accreditation certificate. the program is accredited through the accreditation process.

Hold a current teaching certificate Current teaching certificate in the Current teaching certificate. 1 State of Maryland.

Child Care Resource Center (CCRC) Volunteer hours at a CCRC. Letter1 from CCRC representative 1 volunteer (6 clock hours each indicating volunteer activity and credentialing year) number of hours.

NOTE: 1 All letters must be on official letterhead and completed by the individual responsible (typically the director, conference chair, CCRC staff) for documenting the activity. *Counts only once during an application cycle. 8 PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY UNITS

Professional Activity Unit (PAU) refers to the number assigned to an activity depending on the number of hours spent, level of effort, or commitment to the activity.

Unit Professional Activity Definition Documentation

Transition Plan Activities to support the children Letter1 from Director with during transition from home to supporting documentation. program, within the program, 1 and program to school. Includes individualized plans for children with disabilities and special health care needs.

Attend and participate in a local child Attendance at a local or regional Conference certificate. 1 care conference* child care conference. 10 years of experience working with 10 years of experience working Letter1 from past employer(s) in- children in a child care program directly with children in a licensed dicating position working directly program. with children and start and end dates with hours worked. 1 First and last pay stubs indicating hours worked. Copy of the family child care license.

Early Childhood Professional Expo* Staff an expo-activity booth for Expo passport documentation. 1 early childhood professionals. ECAC Leadership Retreat* Attend an ECAC leadership retreat to Verification letter1 from the strengthen partnership between public CCRC or local ECAC. 1 schools and child care centers to increase school readiness.

Maryland EXCELS and accreditation Requires participation in the peer Verification letter1 from the peer support group or support group or Community of CCRC/approved trainer or 1 Community of Practice Practice for an extended period of faciltator. time.

Early Childhood Mental Health (ECMH) Receive services to improve the ability Verification letter1 from Consultation Project of staff, programs and families to the ECMH Consultant or prevent, identify, treat and reduce the verification letter from impact of social, emotional and other facilitating organization. mental health problems among children birth through 5 years of age. Must: 1 • Be recommended by the ECMH consultant • Actively participate in the consultation process • Complete and return the satisfaction survey.

Developmental Screening Center or family child care provider Verification letter1 from the 1 conducts developmental screening. Director of the program or family provider. School Board Liaison Serve on the board for a full school Letter1 from Director of the year in the capacity of developing School Board describing 1 policies, procedures, budget etc. duties performed. (School age teacher). Professional child care book club Requires participant to facilitate a Letter1 from Director stating book club. Ex: discussions, open duties and responsibilities. 1 dialogue between staff and families and coordination of book club efforts.

Public Policy Committee Requires participation on a Letter1 from chairperson of the 1 committee that addresses issues committee. related to child care. NOTE: 1 All letters must be on official letterhead and completed by the individual responsible (typically the director, conference chair, CCRC staff) for documenting the activity. * Counts only once during an application cycle. 9 PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY UNITS

(2 Units) Awarded for Each Professional Activity Performed

Unit Professional Activity Definition Documentation

Active Association Board Member* Board member of a local, state or Letter1 from representative of the national child care related organization or printed distribution 2 association. material naming the individual as an official board member.

Task Force Member (A group formed to Contributing member of a task Letter1 from lead of task carry out a specific mission or project, force/advisory group focused on force/advisory group. or to solve a problem that requires a the child care community. Printed acknowledgement naming multidisciplinary approach.) individual as a member. 2 Advisory Group Member (A group of volunteers that meets regularly on a long-term basis to provide advice and/or support to an institution, agency or organization.) Newsletter Contributor* Contribute written material for a Copy of the newsletter or article local or state distributed publication identifying you as the author, editor, 2 (e.g. parent newsletter, school or contributor and includes the newsletter). publication month and year.

Three credit college coursework Successful completion of three (3) Copy of current transcript. college credits. 2

Judy Center partner A collaborating partner in local Judy Letter1 or copy of agreement from Center. Judy Center representative. 2

Webpage development/maintenance Design, build and/or maintain a Letter1 from representative defining webpage for a child care related role/duties including the name and 2 organization. purpose of website.

Program Accreditation (Center Director Lead facilitator in the accreditation Copy of accreditation family child care provider only)* process. letter/certificate. 2

Director Consortium* Partnership of two or more Copy of minutes/agenda from directors participating in a common meeting. 2 activity and/or pooling resources to achieve a common child care related goal. NOTE: 1 All letters must be on official letterhead and completed by the individual responsible (typically the director, conference chair, R&R staff) for documenting the activity. * Counts only once during an application cycle.

10 PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY UNITS

Professional Activity Unit (PAU) refers to the number assigned to an activity depending on the number of hours spent, level of effort, or commitment to the activity.

Unit Professional Activity Definition Documentation

Child Care Resource Center (CCRC) Volunteer hours at a CCRC. Letter1 from CCRC Volunteer (12 clock hours each representative indicating volunteer 2 credentialing year) activity and number of hours.

State Child Care Conference Attendance at an MSDE approved Certificate indicating date of attendance* state conference. conference, sessions attended and 2 clock hours of sessions.

20 years of experience working 20 years of experience working One of the following: with children in a child care directly with children in a licensed Letter1 from past employer(s) in- program program. dicating position working directly with children and start and end 2 dates with hours worked. First and last pay stubs indicating hours worked. Copy of the family child care license. Completion of rating scale for own Rate program using appropriate Copy of self-evaluation. program rating scale (ITERS, ECERS, 2 SACERS, PAS, BAS, FCCERS, CLASS).

Graduate with an Associate degree in Complete requirements for Copy of complete transcript that Early Childhood Education an Associate degree in Early indicate participant name, name of Childhood Education from an college/university and graduation 2 accredited college or university date. within credential year. Copy of degree. Statewide Symposium* Attend a conference or meeting in Certificate of attendance indicating which several speakers discuss date, topic(s) and speaker(s). 2 topics related to child care. Include an agenda. Child Care Community Events Participate in the planning and Copy of flyer/advertisement of Committee Chair/Co-Chair implementation of a child care event & a letter1 of participation event to benefit children, families from event representative. 2 and/or community. Letter1 indicating the who, what, when, where and why of the event. Volunteer site for program(s) Volunteering for use as a Letter1 of participation from lead of implementation training site for programs MSDE approved pilot program or 2 (Examples include: Maryland approved facilitator. EXCELS, Best Beginnings, L.E.A.R.N. Pilot, PEEP).

11 PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY UNITS

(3 Units) Awarded for Each Professional Activity Performed

Unit Professional Activity Definition Documentation

National child care conference Attendance to a national Certificate indicating date of attendance.* conference. conference, sessions attended and 3 clock hours of sessions.

Presenter at a local, state or Conduct a child care presentation Letter1 of confirmation from the national conference at a local, state, or national sponsoring organization. 3 conference. A copy of the conference booklet. Approved trainer/college instructor of Recognized by MSDE as an Current MSDE issued training infant/toddler, early childhood, or approved trainer or college approval number. 3 school-age training instructor. Letter1 from college department head. Author or contributor of material Author, contribute, or assist with A copy of the article identifying to an early childhood or school-age writing material for a nationally you as the author or contributor. 3 publication distributed nationally distributed publication (e.g. Young Children; Childhood Education; Childhood Explorer, etc). Editor of local, state, or regional An editor is responsible for Letter1 from the organization child care newsletter checking, reviewing, correcting, and identifying you as the editor. 3 perfecting written materials, articles, and pieces. Copy of newsletter. Child Development Associate Approved by the Council for Documentation of approval from Professional Development Professional Recognition. the Council for Professional 3 Specialist Recognition.

State and/or national accreditation Approved by an accrediting Documentation of approval from observer/validator/verifier organization to conduct the accrediting organization. 3 accreditation visits.

Reliable ECERS, ITERS, FCCERS, Completed required training and Letter1 of Reliability from the SACERS, PAS, BAS, CLASS reliability process for a specific sponsoring organization. 3 validator/observer/assessor assessment.

Supervisor for student-teacher Supervise student-teachers in the Letter1 from the high school officially placed by a high school or classroom. coordinator, college/university or 3 college/university direct supervisor.

Successful completion of six (6) Completion of six college credits Copy of current transcript. college credits within the credential year. 3

Graduate with a Bachelor degree in Completion of graduation Copy of complete transcript that Early Childhood Education from an requirements for a Bachelor degree indicate participant name, name of accredited college/university within the credential year. college/university and graduation 3 date.

Copy of degree. NOTE: 1 All letters must be on official letterhead and completed by the individual responsible (typically the director, conference chair, R&R staff) for documenting the activity. * Counts only once during an application cycle. 12 PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY UNITS

Professional Activity Unit (PAU) refers to the number assigned to an activity depending on the number of hours spent, level of effort, or commitment to the activity.

Unit Professional Activity Definition Documentation

Formal Mentor An experienced individual who is Mentor/Mentee Contract committed to helping other adults identifying structure of the to become more effective at their process; length of time; and 3 work ex. Mentor/mentee process; activities/tasks completed during supervises student teacher placed the time. in the classroom by a high school or college, etc. Child Care Resource Center (CCRC) Volunteer hours at a CCRC. Letter1 from the CCRC indicating Volunteer (18 clock hours each number of hours and volunteer 3 credentialing year) activities.

30 Years of experience working 30 years of experience working Letter1 from past employer(s) in- with children in a child care directly with children in a licensed dicating position working directly program program. with children and start and end dates with hours worked. 3 First and last pay stubs indicating hours worked. Copy of the family child care license.

Testify at a legislative hearing on An individual who testifies at a Agenda or copy of testimony. 3 early childhood policy/regulation legislative hearing on early childhood policy and or regulations.

Peer reviewer for training Reviews early childhood training Letter1 from Training Approval proposals proposal bi-monthly with the Coordinator. 3 training approval peer review team.

13 Option 3 135 clock hours in an Enrollment Accumulate 55 points (meet training for level requirements 4), and college approved course of study* And a degree. toward by earning 5 points for each additional early childhood course college credit and/or each year of experience 2 years working with children directly in a licensed child care program 4 4 24 4+ Option 2 RENEWAL $600 annually 135 clock hours, as 15 college credit required in level 4, required and hrs of approved coursework (e.g., 5 credit three approved college courses) that include college credit courses in CD & CURR 9 years working with children directly in a licensed child care program Option 1 135 clock hours Program (meet training for level requirements 4) and (family Accreditation only) child care 2 years working with children directly in a licensed child care program Development / SN - Special Needs COMM Community 3 3 4 24 COMM 45 hrs CD 30 hrs CURR 20 hrs HSN 15 hrs SN 15 hrs PROF 10 hrs 135 clock or National or Montessori hours: Child Development Associate (CDA) Teaching Credential $500 one-time 2 years working with directly in a children licensed child program care 2 2 3 18 CD Min of 20 hrs 20 hrs CM STAFF CREDENTIAL LEVELS STAFF 90 clock hours: clock 90 college year of exp and college 1 year of exp 1 year of Combined 1 $300 one-time RENEWAL 1 1 2 12 NA CD Min of 20 hrs 45 clock hours: clock 45 $200 one-time CORE OF KNOWLEDGE TRAINING 1 NA NA NA NA NA Meet OCC Licensing Requirements Elementary Education, Special and Child Psychology College Courses of Study: Early Childhood Education, *Approved CURR - Curriculum Planning / CM Methods CD Child / HSN – Health, Safety & Nutrition PROF - Professionalism

EDUCATION/TRAINING PAUs EXPERIENCE PAUs BONUS NOTE LEVEL RENEWAL LEGEND Clock Hours

Option 3 Associate degree or Associate degree in an Enrollment Accumulate 45 points higher w/ 15 college hrs of approved credit coursework (e.g., 5 credit three approved college courses) that include CM & CD, and course of approved a higher study toward and degree, earningfor by points 5 each additional early childhood course and/or each year of experience 2 years working with children directly in a licensed child care program 5 5 6 24 RENEWAL Option 2 $1000 annually Bachelor, Master, Master, Bachelor, 30 college credit Doctorate degree Doctorate degree field) and (nonrelated hrs of approved coursework (e.g., 10 credit three approved college courses) that include college credit courses in CD & CM 2 years working with children directly in a licensed child care program Option 1 Bachelor, Master, Master, Bachelor, College credit Doctorate degree in Doctorate degree ECE, Elem Ed, Spec Ed, Child Psych, or field*, and related courses in CD & CM 2 years working with children directly in a licensed child care program Development / SN - Special Needs COMM Community Option 3 15 college credit 15 college credit in an Enrollment Accumulate 45 points hrs of approved hrs of approved coursework (e.g., 5 credit three approved college courses) and college approved course of study and a degree, toward by earning 5 points for each additional early childhood course college credit and/or each year of experience 2 years working with children directly in a licensed child care program

STAFF CREDENTIAL LEVELS STAFF 4 4 5 24 RENEWAL Option 2 $750 annually Nutrition Administration Child Development Curriculum Planning Health, Safety & Special Needs School Age Infant Toddler Language & Literacy Child Care 30 college credit hrs of 30 college credit approved coursework approved three approved 10 (e.g., college courses) credit that include: 2 years working with children directly in a licensed child care program Option 1 Associate degree Associate degree w/15 college credit w/15 college credit hrs of approved coursework (e.g., 5 credit three approved college courses) that include CD & CM 2 years working with children directly in a licensed child care program Early Childhood Education Related Fields: Psychology, Social Work, Human Services, Family and Consumer Science, Family Studies, Human Ecology. Human Services, Family and Consumer Science, Studies, Ecology. Social Work, Early Childhood Education Related Fields: Psychology, Course of Study: Early Childhood Education, Elementary Special and Child Psychology *Approved CURR - Curriculum Planning / CM Methods CD Child / HSN – Health, Safety & Nutrition PROF - Professionalism

EDUCATION EXPERIENCE PAUs PAUs BONUS NOTE LEVEL RENEWAL LEGEND Clock Hours

15 6 6 4 30 $1500 annually A bachelor, master, or doctorate master, A bachelor, Completion of at least one three Completion of 45 clock hours Alternative Pathway: Provider degree from an accredited an accredited from degree college or university in Business Administration; Public Administration and Management, Public School Administration or a field*, and related college course in Child credit development, Curriculum methods and Administration of child care and programs, of mentoring and training in the area coaching staff for level must meet the requirement 6 option 1, including a 3 credit coursework in “Administration and Program” of Child Care completion of 45 clock hours of mentoring and training in the area coaching staff At least 5 years working directly in a licensed child care with children program 5 5 3 30 $1000 annually programs Child development; Curriculum methods; and Administration of child care Associate degree w/15 college Associate degree Completion of at least 1 three credit hrs of approved coursework hrs of approved credit credit three (e.g., 5 approved to business college courses) related management and administration, and college course in each of the credit following areas: At least 4 years working directly in a licensed child care with children program RENEWAL 5 5 2 30 $750 annually development; development; and nutrition; (NAC); Credential Administrator’s or hrs of approved college credit coursework (e.g., 10 approved college courses) credit three 45 clock hours in child 45 clock hours in curriculum 45 clock hours in health, safety, 45 clock hours in special needs; professionalism; in hours clock 45 15 clock hours in community; and Completion of the National Completion of at least 30 240 clock hours of core of 240 clock hours of core Achievement of at least one the knowledge training consisting of: following: with children 2 years working directly program in a licensed child care ADMINISTRATOR CREDENTIAL LEVELS ADMINISTRATOR 4 4 1 24 $600 one-time Resources, Marketing *Business Related Field: Accounting, Finance, Economics, Human Resources, Education, Special and Child Psychology College Course of Study: Early Childhood Education, Elementary Approved development; development; and nutrition; and • • 45 clock hours in child 45 clock hours in curriculum 45 clock hours in health, safety, 45 clock hours in special needs; professionalism; in hours clock 45 15 clock hours in community 240 clock hours of core of 240 clock hours of core knowledge training, consisting of: with children 2 years working directly program in a licensed child care

EDUCATION EXPERIENCE PAUs PAUs BONUS NOTE LEVEL RENEWAL Clock Hours

16 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q – How do I know if my application has been received or what is the status of my application? A – Call or email Child Care Central at 1-866-243-8796 or [email protected]

Q – When is the earliest that I can submit my application for renewal? A – Applications can be submitted 60 days prior to renewal.

Q – I received my award letter, when will I receive my bonus? A – 30-45 days after receiving an award letter. Checks are mailed from the Maryland State Comptroller’s Office.

Q – I received my award letter and it has been over 45 days. I have not received my check. What should I do? A – Contact Child Care Central, be prepared to provide your phone number and email address. A response to your inquiry will be made within 48 hours.

Q – Can I still send in my application after 30 days past the expiration grace period? A – Yes, applications will be processed as an update. Note: This will change your credential anniversary date. Training and PAUs must be within 12 months of the application date.

Q – Can I upgrade my credential level? A – Yes, you can upgrade your credential level. Please check the upgrade box on the application and submit current information that is within 12 months of the application date. Note: Your credential date will change.

Q – Do I have to wait until my renewal to upgrade my credential level? A – No, you can upgrade your credential level at any time during your credential year by submitting the required documentation. Note: Your credential date will change.

Q – Do I have to be credentialed at each level prior to reaching the highest credential level? A – No, depending on the evaluation of education/training, experience and Professional Activity Units submitted, you will be placed at the highest level.

Q – I moved - my address has changed, what should I do? A – Please submit a “Change of Address” form to Child Care Central. The form can be downloaded from the MSDE website

Q – When does my credential expire? A – Please refer to your letter and certificate.

Q – Can I get a copy of my letter/certificate? A – Yes, please provide Child Care Central with your full name, social security number or CCATS ID #, and email address. A copy of your letter and certificate will be emailed within 5 business days.

Q – Can my credential level be downgraded? A – No, we do not downgrade levels except when a family child care program is no longer accredited or a provider is no longer enrolled in an approved course of study.

Q – I no longer work in child care, what should I do? A – Please send a letter to Child Care Central indicating that you no longer work in child care and include the effective date.

17 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (con’t)

Q – I received an incomplete letter, what should I do? A – Please refer to the incomplete letter and submit the missing documents. Child Care Central can assist you with any additional questions.

Q – The dates on my certificate are incorrect, what should I do? A – Contact Child Care Central; a new certificate will be issued.

Q – My level and bonus amount are incorrect; I should be on a higher level, what should I do? A – Please provide Child Care Central with your social security or CCATS ID #, name, phone number and email address. Your credential file will be reviewed and you will receive a response within 30 days.

Q – Do you conduct credentialing workshops and provide technical assistance at child care centers and association meetings? A – Yes, please contact Child Care Central and provide your name and number.

Q – What do I need to include in my packet for it to be complete? A – Refer to the Application Process section on page 19.

Q – Can I use any training towards my credential? A – All early childhood education related courses/training submitted must be from an Office of Child Care (OCC) approved trainer, organization or an accredited college or university. (Online courses from an accredited college are accepted.)

Q – My incomplete letter states that I am missing PAUs. What PAUs have already been accepted? A – Please refer to your incomplete letter for the list of PAUs that have been accepted.

Q – If I have a PAU that is not on the approved list, how do I get it approved? A – Complete and email the Professional Activity Unit (PAU) Approval Form located on the credentialing website. http://earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org Email the form to [email protected]

Q – What do I need to submit as documentation for a national conference? A – When attending a national conference such as NAEYC and NAFCC there are two ways to verify attendance and receive credit: 1. Request Continuing Education Units (CEUs) – most national conferences offer participants the ability to get CEU’s for an additional fee. 2. Submit the conference certificate with the following information: • On the back the conference certificate, write the title of the workshop(s) attended and have each trainer sign next to the workshop title. • Submit both sides of the conference certificate and the description of the training from the conference booklet.

Q – I am a new applicant, how many years of training can I submit? A – Early childhood education related courses/training completed within the past 5 years of application date will be accepted. Early childhood pre-service and college coursework (credit or non-credit) will also be accepted regardless of completion date.

Q – Where can I find approved trainings? A – Approved trainings can be found by accessing the Statewide Training Clearinghouse Calendar on the MSDE website at http://earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org/child-care-providers/training.

18 APPLICATION PROCESS

COMPLETE THE APPLICATION Complete the Maryland Child Care Credential Application, both front and back. Attach copies of professional activity and experience documentation, as required by level. Attach copies of all certificates, 1 transcripts and any other documentation of training completed. MAKE COPY FOR YOUR RECORDS Make a copy of the completed application, documentation of training, professional activity and experience and any other documentation 2 required by level for your files.

MAIL OR FAX DOCUMENTS Mail the completed original application with all documentation to: Child Care Central PO Box 598 Baltimore, MD 21203 Copies of the application can also be faxed to 410.229.0145 For questions call 1.866.243.8796 option 4 or 3 email [email protected] CHECK E L IMPORTANT: B Please be sure to use the appropriate U

amount of postage and that the original D application and copies of all documents are enclosed.

Should any information change during your credential year (address, place of employment, employment status, phone number, etc.) you must notify Child Care Central immediately.

19 THE MARYLAND CHILD CARE CREDENTIAL PROGRAM Division of Early Childhood Development Office of Child Care – Credentialing Branch 200 West Baltimore Street, 10th Floor Baltimore, Maryland 21201 [email protected] http://earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org/child-care-providers/credentialing

Revised March 2018