How is the PA Early Learning Keys to Quality different from the current (as of January2005) DPW child care structure?
Previously, the state invested early care resources through several different administrative structures with loosely related goals and leadership. Different structures assisted providers in a quality recognition and award program; offered skills training; offered credentialing and professional development; offered parent information about quality care; and recruited providers to accept subsidized reimbursement rates for working parents. Although it was the same audience for all these structures, and early care was supported, a unifying vision had not been promulgated. The PA Early Learning Keys to Quality bring new methods, knowledge and access to credentials within reach of all early learning care organizations and caregivers. The unifying vision is to improve child outcomes. Programs are all brought under the one umbrella of the central Key, and administered by that central, integrated organization, creating a simpler, more easily accessed system of supports for early care and educat
