DCDEE Written Response/Staff-Child Ratios

On Friday, May 29, DCDEE Interim Director Kristi Snuggs responded in writing to NCLCCA’s request that the Division not return to Star-level-based staff-child ratio requirements for at least the next several months and instead continue the ratio flexibility (minimum requirements) that had been allowed as a result of COVID-19 through May 17. While DCDEE did not fully grant NCLCCA’s written request, Dr. Snuggs did say that if individual centers request it, “the Division will allow child care providers’ continued adherence to the following regulatory flexibilities, on a case-by-case basis:

• Temporary allowance for child care facility programs, regardless of star-rating, to operate using the minimum allowable staff/children ratios and group sizes, and,
  
• Temporarily allow increasing the maximum group size provided the staff/child ratios are maintained for the youngest child in the group, not to exceed two groupings of children” 
  

To see the full guidance/response, please view a copy of Dr. Snuggs letter, HERE.  

Guidance Released on How Public Schools Can Reopen in Fall

On June 8, state health (DHHS) and education (DPI) leaders released guidance on how North Carolina’s public schools can reopen next school year amid the coronavirus pandemic.  To view the release and info, click HERE.