DECAL - Bright from the Start RSS feedGeorgia Department of Early Care and Learning, Bright from the Start news feed.en-usCopyright © 2013 Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning.DECAL News Tickerhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_2013SummerFood14counties.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_2013SummerFood14counties.pdfGeneralDECAL targets 14 counties for Summer Food ProgramDeadline Approaching for Serving Meals to Children Who Normally Receive Free Breakfast and Lunch during School YearTue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_KidsCars051013.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_KidsCars051013.pdfGeneralKids Left in Cars: State Agencies Warn of the DangersFrom Kidnappings to Heatstroke, Officials Urge Greater Awareness For Georgia’s Youngest Citizens Fri, 10 May 2013 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_2013SummerTransition.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_2013SummerTransition.pdfPreKPrograms Selected for DECAL Summer Transition ProgramProgram Targets Rising Kindergarten Students Who Did Not Attend Pre-K or Need Additional SupportTue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/BftS/earlylearningvideo.aspxhttp://decal.ga.gov/BftS/earlylearningvideo.aspxQualityInitiativesEarly Learning: A Smart InvestmentClick title to watch the WSB-TV special Early Learning: A Smart Investment. First aired in March, 2013, this special takes an in-depth look at the benefits and challenges of quality early education in Georgia. Special thanks to WSB-TV for allowing us to post this program on our web site. Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_TroupCountyArrest.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_TroupCountyArrest.pdfGeneralLaGrange Child Care Provider Arrested for Attempt to Defraud Georgia’s Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) ProgramGeorgia Department of Early Care and Learning taking aggressive action to prosecute those who would commit fraudFri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/MFSAB_E-mail_040913.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/MFSAB_E-mail_040913.pdfChildCareServicesAdditional Information about Safely Transporting Children More information for child care programs about using Multi-Function School Activity Buses and about child safety restraint systems.Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_P3DunbarEvent040313.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_P3DunbarEvent040313.pdfGeneralBright from the Start presents Georgia Pre-K: Visioning a PreK-3rd Grade ApproachUniversity of Washington College of Education Research Scientist Dr. Kristie Kauerz is guest speaker Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0400http://www.decal.ga.gov/BftS/StartingAGeorgiaPreKProgram.aspxhttp://www.decal.ga.gov/BftS/StartingAGeorgiaPreKProgram.aspxPreK2013-2014 Georgia's Pre-K Program Application Available The application to become a Georgia's Pre-K Program provider is now available for download. Continuation providers should apply online in PANDA. Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_%202013%20GaReadsAloudResults.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_%202013%20GaReadsAloudResults.pdfPreKPre-K/Early Learning Students Read 28,000 Books on “Georgia Reads Aloud Day”Lafayette Kids World in Fayette County wins contest for Most Books ReadFri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_HB350SenateVote.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_HB350SenateVote.pdfGeneralState Senate Approves DECAL’s National Background Check BillNew Law would require National Fingerprint-Based Background Checks for All Employees of Georgia’s 6,000 child care facilities Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_CAPSAuditMarch2013.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_CAPSAuditMarch2013.pdfGeneralDECAL appointing task force, working with law enforcement to improve Georgia’s Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) ProgramAgency taking aggressive action to improve child care subsidy program and prosecute those who would commit fraudFri, 15 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0400http://www.decal.ga.gov/QualityInitiatives/CCDFPlan.aspxhttp://www.decal.ga.gov/QualityInitiatives/CCDFPlan.aspxQualityInitiativesDECAL takes lead on preparing and submitting Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) Plan for Georgia Plan will describe how Georgia will administer federal CCDF funds from 10/1/2013 through 9/30/2015 Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_redfezclub031113.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_redfezclub031113.pdfPreKDECAL and Yaarab Shrine Circus promote Early Reading“Red Fez Reading Club” offers Free Circus Tickets to Young ReadersWed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_2013SummerTransitionProgram.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_2013SummerTransitionProgram.pdfPreKBright from the Start offering Pre-K Summer Transition ProgramProgram targets rising Kindergarten students who did not attend Pre-K or need additional supportWed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_GeorgiaReadsAloud2013.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_GeorgiaReadsAloud2013.pdfPreKDECAL joins with Governor Nathan Deal, First Lady Sandra Deal and State School Superintendent Dr. John Barge in launching 2013 “Read Across Georgia”DECAL holding contest for Most Books Read on “Georgia Reads Aloud Day,” Tuesday, March 19, 2013, from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PMMon, 04 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_HB350030113.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_HB350030113.pdfGeneralDECAL’s National Background Check Bill Clears House Committees, Heads to House Floor on MondayHB 350 would require national fingerprint-based background checks for all employees of Georgia’s 6,000 child care facilities protecting the health and safety of Georgia’s youngest learnersFri, 01 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_SafeSleeping022813.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_SafeSleeping022813.pdfChildCareServicesDECAL holding community forum, webinars on Proposed New Safe Sleeping RulesAmerican Academy of Pediatrics has expanded recommendations to reduce risk of SIDS and SUIDSThu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_InfantToddlerPrograms022613.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_InfantToddlerPrograms022613.pdfChildCareServicesDECAL Infant and Toddler Program Develops Child Care MentorsChild Care in Georgia getting boost from new program to spread expertise through network of well-seasoned caregiversThu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_PreKLongitudinalStudy022213.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_PreKLongitudinalStudy022213.pdfPreKResearch Concludes Georgia’s Pre-K Program Benefits All ChildrenRecent report supports effectiveness of Georgia’s lottery funded Pre-K program.Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_GELDSwebsite022513.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_GELDSwebsite022513.pdfPreKNew Web Site for Georgia Early Learning and Development Standards (GELDS) launches todayDECAL asking for public comment and feedback before GELDS are used in 2013-2014 school yearMon, 25 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500http://www.gpb.org/prime-time-lawmakers/video/2013/legislative-day-14http://www.gpb.org/prime-time-lawmakers/video/2013/legislative-day-14PreKCommissioner Cagle appears on GPB's Primetime Lawmakers Commissioner Cagle discussed Georgia’s Pre-K Program, this year celebrating its 20th anniversary and serving some 84,000 four year olds statewide with a focus on language, literacy, math, general knowledge and social skills. Click title to watch the program, which originally aired live on Friday, February 8, 2013, on GPB.Mon, 11 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_QualityRatedFirsts.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_QualityRatedFirsts.pdfQualityInitiativesGeorgia’s “Quality Rated” Program congratulates first rated programsOver 1,100 early learning programs have voluntarily enrolled in new rating programTue, 05 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_CAPSfundingposts020113.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_CAPSfundingposts020113.pdfChildCareServicesDECAL posting Georgia’s Child Care and Parent Services (CAPS) Funding Allocations to Web SiteOfficials say new information is part of its overall commitment to transparencyFri, 01 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_FY2013budget.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_FY2013budget.pdfGeneralCommissioner Bobby Cagle presents DECAL Budgets to Joint Senate and House Appropriations CommitteeBudgets include Governor’s Proposal to add additional 10 days of instruction to Georgia’s Pre-K ProgramMon, 28 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/Prek/CurriculaModels.aspxhttp://decal.ga.gov/Prek/CurriculaModels.aspxPreKGeorgia Pre-K Curriculum Approval ProcessUpcoming Pre-K Curriculum Review. In summer 2013 Georgia’s Pre-K Program will review and approve curriculum models to be used in Georgia’s Pre-K Program.Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/statement_emergencyplans121812.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/statement_emergencyplans121812.pdfGeneralCommissioner’s Statement on Emergency Plans for Child Care Programs in GeorgiaCommissioner Bobby Cagle reminds child care programs and Georgia’s Pre-K classes of DECAL’s required policies for handling emergencies.Tue, 18 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/DECALAnnouncementPRDOLE.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/DECALAnnouncementPRDOLE.pdfNutritionDole Food Company, DECAL and Healthy Kids Georgia Partner to Improve Early Childhood Nutrition StandardsNew partnership will promote good nutrition and increased physical activity in early childcare and education programs.Fri, 14 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_OLLI112912.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_OLLI112912.pdfPreKDECAL & Georgia’s Pre-K Program launch Online Learning InitiativeNew Resource Offers Free Professional Development and Information For Early Learning CommunityThu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_%20annuallicensefees.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_%20annuallicensefees.pdfChildCareServicesLicense Fees Due for Georgia’s Child Care ProgramsNew State Law Requires Verification of Lawful Presence in the United StatesThu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_2013SFSPSponsorAppeal.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_2013SFSPSponsorAppeal.pdfNutritionSponsors needed to serve meals to children next summerSummer Food Service Program (SFSP) served 3.5 million meals during summer, 2012Tue, 20 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/AdoptsRuleChanges111512.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/AdoptsRuleChanges111512.pdfChildCareServicesBright from the Start Considers and Adopts Minor Housekeeping Changes to Child Care Learning Center RulesOn November 15, 2012, Bright from the Start adopted Rule 591-1-1-.46 of the Rules for Child Care Learning Centers, Chapter 591-1-1 and the repeal of Rules and Regulations for Day Care Centers, Chapter 290-2-2.Fri, 16 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_interfaithaward102412.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_interfaithaward102412.pdfGeneralInterfaith Children’s Movement Honors DECAL Commissioner Bobby CagleCagle recognized for efforts to protect the health and safety of children in GeorgiaThu, 01 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.decal.ga.gov/ChildCareServices/LawfulPresenceVerification.aspxhttp://www.decal.ga.gov/ChildCareServices/LawfulPresenceVerification.aspxChildCareServicesDECAL implements new requirement for license feesDECAL implements new requirement for license feesTue, 30 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_QR1000.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_QR1000.pdfQualityInitiativesGeorgia’s New “Quality Rated” Program Marks Another MilestoneOver 1,000 early learning programs have voluntarily enrolled in rating programTue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.decal.ga.gov/ChildCareServices/RulesReviewProcess.aspxhttp://www.decal.ga.gov/ChildCareServices/RulesReviewProcess.aspxChildCareServicesDECAL ACTs to implement Recommendations and Findings of the Governor’s Executive Order.To view DECAL ACTs Recommendations and Findings of the Governor’s Executive Order, please click title.Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_%20afterschoolmeals101512.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_%20afterschoolmeals101512.pdfNutritionGeorgia’s At Risk Afterschool Meals Program is availableAfterschool programs, Child Care Centers and Head Start Programs offering afterschool programs are eligible to participateMon, 15 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.decal.ga.gov/ChildCareServices/ProposedRevisions.aspxhttp://www.decal.ga.gov/ChildCareServices/ProposedRevisions.aspxChildCareServicesDECAL Proposes Minor Housekeeping Changes to Child Care Learning Center RulesDECAL proposes a consolidation of Child Care Learning Center rules in response to Governor Deal’s Executive Order to reduce inefficiencies, redundancies and consolidate all rules and regulations. Thu, 11 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_20122013readandtalk.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_20122013readandtalk.pdfGeneralDECAL partnering with Georgia Public Library Service and Atlanta Speech School for Language & Literacy Partnership“Read and Talk” Conferences will teach strategies to support language development in the infant and toddler classroom Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.ajc.com/news/news/state-regional-govt-politics/georgia-lawmakers-to-honor-pre-k-programs-20th-yea/nSPcW/http://www.ajc.com/news/news/state-regional-govt-politics/georgia-lawmakers-to-honor-pre-k-programs-20th-yea/nSPcW/PreKAtlanta Journal-Constitution: Georgia lawmakers to honor pre-k program’s 20th yearAJC Education Reporter Nancy Badertscher covers Georgia’s Pre-K Week and the 20th anniversary of the Pre-K Program.Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_092812newpreklogo.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_092812newpreklogo.pdfPreKDECAL Unveils New Logo for Georgia’s Pre-K ProgramLogo Designed to Communicate Pre-K’s Role in Preparing Young LearnersFri, 28 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/Final_Release_DECAL_Voices%2092812.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/Final_Release_DECAL_Voices%2092812.pdfPreKDECAL and Voices for Georgia’s Children Celebrate Pre-K Week and 20th Anniversary of Georgia’s Pre-KNearly 150 State Leaders to Visit Pre-K Classrooms Across GeorgiaThu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_qualityratedfirstapproved.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_qualityratedfirstapproved.pdfQualityInitiativesQuality Rated welcomes First Approved Child Care ProgramJustus Kidz Family Day Care in Buford, Georgia, receives Quality Rated Seal of Approval and Two-Star RatingThu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_zooatlantaprekweek2.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_zooatlantaprekweek2.pdfGeneralZoo Atlanta celebrates 20th Anniversary of Georgia’s Pre-K ProgramPre-K Week presented by PNC Bank, October 8-12, 2012, includes discount admission for Pre-K classes, special shows and activitiesMon, 24 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/video/videoPlayer.aspx?f=EPAFlagProgram-FultonToday-08062012.flvhttp://decal.ga.gov/video/videoPlayer.aspx?f=EPAFlagProgram-FultonToday-08062012.flvChildCareServicesFulton County Flies Air Quality Flag to Protect Students’ HealthDECAL recently joined the Fulton County Department of Health Services and the Georgia Head Start Association to help raise public awareness of daily air quality conditions. Fulton County Government Television (FGTV) produced this segment on the EPA’s School Flag Program to help protect children’s health in Georgia’s Pre-K programs, Head Start and Early Head Start centers and child care centersThu, 20 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/CredentialsMeetingNoticeSept2012.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/CredentialsMeetingNoticeSept2012.pdfChildCareServicesDECAL Community Meetings Schedule for New Lead Teacher/Director CredentialsDECAL Community Meetings Schedule for New Lead Teacher/Director CredentialsWed, 19 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0400211ChildCareServicesDECAL holds community meetings about lead teacher and director credential rule. New licensing rules requiring higher credentials for lead teachers and directors take effect December 1, 2012. Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/releasegayc2012.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/releasegayc2012.pdfGeneralDECAL joins Georgia Association on Young Children (GAYC) For Annual Conference at Gwinnett CenterNearly 3,000 Early Care and Education Professionals will participate in over 150 State Approved WorkshopsWed, 12 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/qualityrated700.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/qualityrated700.pdfQualityInitiativesDECAL welcomes 700th Early Learning Program for New “Quality Rated”The Sunshine House in Douglasville is 700th program to voluntarily enlist in new rating programThu, 02 Aug 2012 07:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/NAFCCAwardDavis.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/NAFCCAwardDavis.pdfChildCareServicesDECAL Specialist Honored with National AwardNational Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) recognizes Melissa Davis during conference in AtlantaMon, 30 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/EPAschoolflags.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/EPAschoolflags.pdfHeadStartFulton County Flies Air Quality Flag to Protect Students’ HealthCounty Health Department partners with DECAL and Georgia Head Start Association to raise awareness of daily air quality conditionsTue, 24 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.decal.ga.gov/BftS/CustomerSurvey.aspxhttp://www.decal.ga.gov/BftS/CustomerSurvey.aspxGeneralDECAL Releases Customer Satisfaction Report A recent report compiled by Georgia State University reveals customers’ perceptions of DECAL. Mon, 16 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid836827756001?bckey=AQ~~,AAAAFIvhljk~,Nz7UFI321EYSAUsYGYx5WAk9m9XiXaY8&bctid=1712853621001http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid836827756001?bckey=AQ~~,AAAAFIvhljk~,Nz7UFI321EYSAUsYGYx5WAk9m9XiXaY8&bctid=1712853621001GeneralWSB-TV Action News: Record heat prompts policy changes for transporting childrenAtlanta’s WSB-TV covers DECAL’s June 27, 2012, news conference on new and increased penalties for improperly transporting children.Mon, 02 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.myfoxatlanta.com/story/18914813/fines-increasing-for-child-day-care-centershttp://www.myfoxatlanta.com/story/18914813/fines-increasing-for-child-day-care-centersGeneralFOX 5 Atlanta: Fines increasing for child day care centersAtlanta’s WAGA-TV (FOX) 5 covers DECAL’s June 29 news conference announcing new penalties and enforcement measures for child care programs that improperly transport children.Fri, 29 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.macon.com/2012/06/26/2075120/ga-day-care-quality-could-benefit.htmlhttp://www.macon.com/2012/06/26/2075120/ga-day-care-quality-could-benefit.htmlGeneralMacon Telegraph: Ga. day care quality could benefit from change in subsidyThe Macon Telegraph covers the move of Georgia’s Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) to DECAL and its effect on our new Quality Rated program.Thu, 28 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/CAPSmove.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/CAPSmove.pdfGeneralGeorgia’s Child Care and Parent Services (CAPS) moves to DECALOfficials say transition brings early childhood education services under one agencyMon, 18 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://wrdw.videodownload.worldnow.com/WRDW_20120606185351457AC.mp4http://wrdw.videodownload.worldnow.com/WRDW_20120606185351457AC.mp4GeneralWRDW-TV Augusta 12 On Your Side: New childcare rating system in GeorgiaAugusta’s WRDW-TV 12 On Your Side covers DECAL’s new Quality Rated Program.Thu, 07 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.ajc.com/news/its-a-new-day-1451351.htmlhttp://www.ajc.com/news/its-a-new-day-1451351.htmlGeneralAJC: ‘It’s a new day’ for pre-k oversightDECAL Commissioner Bobby Cagle is profiled in this report from the Sunday, June 3, 2012, edition of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.Sun, 03 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/SFSP2012.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/SFSP2012.pdfNutritionNational food program feeding Georgia’s hungry children this summerProgram provides free meals to eligible children in low-income areasWed, 30 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/trioncityuplayground.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/trioncityuplayground.pdfGeneralTrion City Schools Pre-K creates new Outdoor Learning EnvironmentTeachers inspired by DECAL’s Best Practices Training on taking the classroom outsideWed, 30 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKm3rPq-6Ds&list=HL1337655610&feature=mh_lolzhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKm3rPq-6Ds&list=HL1337655610&feature=mh_lolzPreKThe Junior League of Atlanta produced this great video on the importance of early education.Watch for Susan Adams, our assistant commissioner for Georgia Pre-K, in this video about the importance of early education.Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/infanttoddlerwebsite051812.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/infanttoddlerwebsite051812.pdfGeneralDECAL launches new Web Site for Teachers, Parents of Infants and Toddlers Site is new resource of online learning, professional development and educational resources for parents and teachers of infants and toddlers from birth to age three.Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/summersafe.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/summersafe.pdfGeneralDECAL reminds you to Play it “SAFE” this summerChild Care Providers reminded to pay close attention to weather conditions and air quality in planning outside play and field trips.Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/readsaloudharrisctyvisit051012.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/readsaloudharrisctyvisit051012.pdfGeneralFirst Lady Sandra Deal and DECAL Commissioner Bobby Cagle to visit Mulberry Creek Elementary Pre-K Harris County School won contest for Most Books Read during “Georgia Reads Aloud Day”Mon, 14 May 2012 08:00:00 -0400http://www.henryherald.com/news/2012/may/07/schools-start-kindergarten-round-early-registratio/#http://www.henryherald.com/news/2012/may/07/schools-start-kindergarten-round-early-registratio/#GeneralHenry County Herald: Schools start kindergarten round-up, early registrationsHenry County Herald: Schools start kindergarten round-up, early registrationsThu, 10 May 2012 08:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/qualityratedgrant050412.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/qualityratedgrant050412.pdfQualityInitiatives“Quality Rated” Program receives $2.4 Million Grant from Joseph B. Whitehead Foundation and United Way of Metropolitan AtlantaEarly education programs participating in Georgia’s new “Quality Rated” program will receive additional technical assistance, equipment and curriculum thanks to a $2.4 million grant from the Joseph B. Whitehead Foundation and the United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta. Tue, 08 May 2012 08:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/chinavisit.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/chinavisit.pdfGeneralDECAL Commissioner Bobby Cagle and Assistant Commissioner for Pre-K Susan Adams to visit China Officials will study child care centers and discuss enhancements to Chinese language program for Georgia’s Pre-K studentsTue, 08 May 2012 08:00:00 -0400http://www.macon.com/2012/05/03/2013026/early-childhood-literacy-conference.htmlhttp://www.macon.com/2012/05/03/2013026/early-childhood-literacy-conference.htmlGeneralMacon Telegraph: Early childhood literacy conference to be held at Macon StateDECAL holds its second of five Infant Toddler Language and Literacy Conferences in Macon.Fri, 04 May 2012 08:00:00 -0400http://daltondailycitizen.com/local/x474408222/Early-learning-official-stresses-readinghttp://daltondailycitizen.com/local/x474408222/Early-learning-official-stresses-readingGeneralThe Daily Citizen: Early learning official stresses readingThe Daily Citizen covers recent remarks by DECAL Commissioner Bobby Cagle to the Dalton Kiwanis Club.Wed, 02 May 2012 08:00:00 -0400http://www.walb.com/story/17754513/schools-celebrate-georgia-reads-aloud-dayhttp://www.walb.com/story/17754513/schools-celebrate-georgia-reads-aloud-dayGeneralWALB-TV Albany: Schools celebrate Georgia Reads Aloud DayAlbany’s WALB-TV (NBC) 10 covers Georgia Reads Aloud Day.Thu, 26 Apr 2012 07:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/summertransition.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/summertransition.pdfPreKChild Care Programs selected for DECAL Summer Transition ProgramProgram targets rising Kindergarten students who did not attend Pre-K or need additional support.Wed, 25 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0400http://www.11alive.com/News/Education/239616/11/Georgia-Reads-Aloud-Day-includes-a-contesthttp://www.11alive.com/News/Education/239616/11/Georgia-Reads-Aloud-Day-includes-a-contestGeneral11 Alive: Georgia Reads Aloud Day includes a contest11 Alive News in Atlanta covers “Georgia Reads Aloud” Day, and a contest for a special visit from Georgia First Lady Sandra Deal.Wed, 25 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/89f1c69924594ecea0f54eac0efecb8d/GA--Daycare-Rating-System/http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/89f1c69924594ecea0f54eac0efecb8d/GA--Daycare-Rating-System/GeneralAP: Hundreds of daycare centers, preschools swarm to sign up for new Georgia quality rating systemThe Associated Press (AP) recently covered Georgia’s new Quality Rated program.Tue, 24 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/schoolvisitsatlanta.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/schoolvisitsatlanta.pdfGeneralCommissioner Bobby Cagle joins First Lady Sandra Deal for “Read Across Georgia” InitiativeBobby Cagle, commissioner of Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning will join Georgia’s First Lady Sandra Deal Friday for her “Read Across Georgia” campaign at public schools in Southwest Atlanta. Thu, 19 Apr 2012 08:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/qualityratedfirstssunshine.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/qualityratedfirstssunshine.pdfQualityInitiativesThe Sunshine School recognized by Governor Nathan Deal and DECAL Commissioner Bobby CagleMarietta Program among First in the State to enroll in Quality RatedThu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/nieeryearbook.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/nieeryearbook.pdfPreKNIEER: Georgia Pre-K Quality among Best in the NationGeorgia joins only four other states in attaining 10 quality benchmarks; Ranks fourth in the nation for enrollment Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.decal.ga.gov/ChildCareServices/RulesReviewProcess.aspxhttp://www.decal.ga.gov/ChildCareServices/RulesReviewProcess.aspxChildCareServicesRules Review Process Webinar, April 5, 2012Rules Review Process Webinar, April 5, 2012Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-pre-k-gets-1412104.htmlhttp://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-pre-k-gets-1412104.htmlPreKAtlanta Journal-Constitution: Georgia Pre-K gets top rating in national reportThe AJC covers Georgia’s performance in a new national report on the state of pre-school.Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.11alive.com/news/article/237287/3/Child-care-providers-sign-up-for-new-ratings-systemhttp://www.11alive.com/news/article/237287/3/Child-care-providers-sign-up-for-new-ratings-systemQualityInitiatives11 Alive News: Child care providers sign up for new ratings system Atlanta's 11 Alive News covers DECAL's new Quality Rated Program. To view the video click the title. Mon, 09 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://daltondailycitizen.com/local/x1224375075/Kiddie-Land-owner-says-compliance-designation-needs-closer-lookhttp://daltondailycitizen.com/local/x1224375075/Kiddie-Land-owner-says-compliance-designation-needs-closer-lookChildCareServicesThe Daily Citizen: Kiddie Land owner says compliance designation needs closer lookThe Daily Citizen in Dalton, Georgia, reports on a local day care center found in non-compliance for FY 2010 and 2011.Mon, 09 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.macon.com/2012/04/06/1978100/pre-k-cuts-have-impact-on-teachers.htmlhttp://www.macon.com/2012/04/06/1978100/pre-k-cuts-have-impact-on-teachers.htmlPreKMacon Telegraph: Pre-K cuts have impact on teachers, studentsThe Macon Telegraph looks at the impact of recent changes to the Pre-K budget and calendar on Middle Georgia teachers and students.Mon, 09 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://daltondailycitizen.com/local/x1940328015/Most-local-day-cares-complianthttp://daltondailycitizen.com/local/x1940328015/Most-local-day-cares-compliantChildCareServicesThe Daily Citizen: Most local day cares compliantThe Daily Citizen in Dalton, Georgia, reports on the status of compliant child care providers in their area.Mon, 02 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.savannahbusinessjournal.com/news/103-regional-news/1928-april-2-child-care-providers-are-embracing-georgias-new-quality-rated-program.htmlhttp://www.savannahbusinessjournal.com/news/103-regional-news/1928-april-2-child-care-providers-are-embracing-georgias-new-quality-rated-program.htmlQualityInitiativesSavannah Business Journal: Child Care Providers embracing Georgia’s New “Quality Rated” ProgramQuality Rated program and progress reported by Savannah Business JournalMon, 02 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.newscentralga.com/news/local/Inside-the-Law-Quality-Rating-System-Coming-to-Ga-Daycares-144303245.htmlhttp://www.newscentralga.com/news/local/Inside-the-Law-Quality-Rating-System-Coming-to-Ga-Daycares-144303245.htmlQualityInitiativesInside the Law: Quality Rating System coming to Georgia Day Care CentersMacon’s News Central Georgia covers DECAL’s new Quality Rated program in this special report.Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/stakeholdernetwork.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/stakeholdernetwork.pdfGeneralDECAL Commissioner launches new Advisory Network12 Groups will help influence future policies for Georgia’s earliest learners, birth to five years old. Fri, 23 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/infanttoddlerconf.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/infanttoddlerconf.pdfGeneralDECAL promoting Infant Toddler Language and LiteracyConferences will teach strategies to support language development in the infant and toddler classroom.Tue, 20 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/letsmove31812.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/letsmove31812.pdfGeneralDECAL supports Let’s Move! Child Care State ChallengeDECAL joins with the US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Child Care in supporting the Let’s Move! Child Care State Challenge and its effort to ensure that all child care settings are “safe, healthy and learning.”Tue, 20 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/schoolvisits032312.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/schoolvisits032312.pdfGeneralCommissioner Bobby Cagle joins First Lady Sandra Deal for “Read Across Georgia” Initiative Bobby Cagle, commissioner of Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning, will join Georgia’s First Lady Sandra Deal on Friday, March 23, 2012, for her “Read Across Georgia” campaign. Tue, 20 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.ajc.com/news/best-in-class-1384821.htmlhttp://www.ajc.com/news/best-in-class-1384821.htmlGeneralGwinnett Pre-School Teacher wins National AwardA Gwinnett County Pre-School teacher is making news by winning a national award.Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.macon.com/2012/03/15/1946404/middle-ga-head-start-to-test-students.htmlhttp://www.macon.com/2012/03/15/1946404/middle-ga-head-start-to-test-students.htmlHeadStartMiddle Georgia Head Start to test students for lead poisoningMiddle Georgia Head Start agencies in 13 counties are providing free testing for lead poisoning.Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/2012/03/15/1972266/response-to-child-care-deficiencies.htmlhttp://www.ledger-enquirer.com/2012/03/15/1972266/response-to-child-care-deficiencies.htmlChildCareServicesColumbus Ledger-Enquirer: Response to child care deficiencies credit to GeorgiaThe Columbus Ledger-Enquirer notes the recent improvements in Georgia’s child care centers.Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://www.macon.com/2012/03/14/1944079/georgia-home-day-cares-improve.htmlhttp://www.macon.com/2012/03/14/1944079/georgia-home-day-cares-improve.htmlChildCareServicesMacon Telegraph: Georgia’s home day cares improve, national group saysGeorgia’s improved score in the recent National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (NACCRRA) report makes news in Middle Georgia.Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_leadtesting.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_leadtesting.pdfHeadStartAgencies partner in Lead Testing for Middle Georgia ChildrenSeven Head Start Agencies in Middle Georgia are testing children there for lead poisoning after higher than average readings raised concerns. Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_summertransition.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/release_summertransition.pdfPreKMoving on Up: Bright from the Start offering Pre-K Summer Transition ProgramBright from the Start has announced a six-week Summer Transition Program for rising kindergartners who either did not attend Georgia’s Pre-K or Head Start, or attended but need additional support to be ready for Kindergarten next Fall. Mon, 12 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/naccrra2012study.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/naccrra2012study.pdfChildCareServicesGeorgia improves score and ranking in Small Family Child Care Home StandardsThe National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (NACCRRA) has released its latest report, ranking states on their current small family child care home standards and oversight policies.Fri, 09 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/video/CredentialRuleDiscussion.wmvhttp://decal.ga.gov/video/CredentialRuleDiscussion.wmvChildCareServicesTeacher Credential Discussion WebinarDECAL conducted a webinar Feb. 23rd regarding the educational requirements for directors and lead teachers effective 12/1/2012. Discussion included financial and academic support available as well as credential equivalency opportunities in process and approved. Please click the title to view the webinar. Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500http://www.gpb.org/lawmakers-tv/2012/02/22http://www.gpb.org/lawmakers-tv/2012/02/22GeneralCommissioner Cagle featured on GPB's Lawmakers Program Commissioner Bobby Cagle was a guest on Georgia Public Broadcasting's Lawmakers program on Feb. 22nd. He was interviewed by host Scott Slade about Georgia's Pre-K Program, the new Quality Rated Program and other current early education topics. Please click the title to view the show. Mon, 27 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500http://video.wjbf.com/v/52032246/wjbf-extra-daycare-pass-or-fail.htm?q=Kim+Scotthttp://video.wjbf.com/v/52032246/wjbf-extra-daycare-pass-or-fail.htm?q=Kim+ScottChildCareServicesDECAL in the News DECAL was recently featured on WJBF-TV (Augusta) for a story about state regulations for child care learning centers and family day care homes, training for teachers and what parents can do to find quality care for their children. Click the title to view the entire video. Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/HSMOU2012.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/HSMOU2012.pdfHeadStartInteragency Agreement Signed to Strengthen Services for Georgia's Children with Disabilities On January 10, 2012, several agencies signed an agreement designed to strengthen cooperative services to children with disabilities. Click the title to view the entire release and photo. Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/SFSPRelease12.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/SFSPRelease12.pdfNutritionSponsors needed to serve meals to children during the summer The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) is looking for eligible sponsors to serve nutritious meals to children throughout Georgia for the summer of 2012. The SFSP, administered by Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start), is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Click the title to read the news release. Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/RFA_Application.dochttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/RFA_Application.docNutritionBright from the Start releases Caregivers Promoting Healthy Habits’ Request for Applications (RFA) for Mini-grant FundingBright from the Start announced the availability of the RFA Mini-Grant for Caregivers Promoting Healthy Habits.Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/CribStandardsProvider.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/CribStandardsProvider.pdfChildCareServicesNew Federal Requirements for CribsBeginning December 28, 2012, all Child Care Learning Centers, Group Day Care Homes and Family Day Care Homes in Georgia must use only compliant cribs that meet the new federal safety standards. For more details, click the title. Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0400http://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/RulesAdoptionEmergencyRules.pdfhttp://decal.ga.gov/documents/attachments/RulesAdoptionEmergencyRules.pdfChildCareServicesCommissioner Cagle's Correspondence Regarding Adoption of Emergency Rules On July 19, 2011, the Board of Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start) adopted emergency rules for the Rules for Child Care Learning Centers (Chapter 591-1-1) and the Rules for Group Day Care Homes (Chapter 290-2-1) regarding transportation requirements. Click the title to view the entire letter. Mon, 25 Jul 2011 08:00:00 -0400