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table of contents

1\. overview

start-up process

schedule & costs

2\. authorities

490 b (Trible amendment)

crime control act

P.L. 106-58

Presidential Memorandum

3\. surveys

feasibility discussion

employee needs assessment and discussion

market survey

4.  roles and responsibilities

> interagency agreement

5\. standards

GSA (license form 1582)

state and/or local

NAEYC accreditation

6\. cost, quality and affordability

7\. additional resources

consultants

1

Overview

START-UP PROCESS FOR CHILD CARE CENTERS IN GSA SPACE

**AGENCY & GSA GSA**

# 

#### SERVICE PROVIDER

# Start Up Process for Centers in GSA Space

[CONTACT GSA]{.underline}

The primary mission of the GSA's Child Care Operations Center of
Expertise is to ensure that Federal and community families receive
quality care for their young children in child care centers located in
GSA managed space. We assist with all areas of establishing a child
development center. Regional Child Care Coordinators can offer
assistance regarding the formation of the organizing committee and
eventual board, needs assessments and local child care market surveys,
recommendations for center size and programs, selection of center
management and technical assistance and coordination for the actual
build out and equipping of the center.

Our nationwide network of Regional Child Care Coordinators works in
partnership with other Federal agencies, advisory boards, providers, and
center staff to establish and maintain high quality programs. What
follows is a brief overview of the start up process. The appropriate
Regional Child Care Coordinator should be consulted for further
guidance.

[OBTAIN MANAGEMENT COMMITMENT]{.underline}

A commitment from the local Federal agency's or agencies' top management
is crucial to the development and operation of a child care center. It
is the key to the release of funds to develop the center and to the
agency's continuing support.

[FORM ORGANIZING COMMITTEE]{.underline}

The committee should reflect the agency(ies) which will utilize the
center and should be comprised of individuals whose professional
expertise or background will benefit the committee (e.g. accountant,
attorney, educator, fundraiser, etc.) In many cases, some members of the
organizing committee stay on as future board members. The permanent
board is well served by maintaining this mix of individuals, as well as
seeking upper management and community participation on the board.

When more than one sponsoring agency is involved, each should be
proportionally represented on the committee according to their occupancy
within the building.

[ESTABLISH INTERAGENCY AGREEMENTS]{.underline}

When more than one agency sponsors a center, an interagency agreement
(IA) should be signed between the agencies involved. The IA establishes
the framework within which the agencies will participate in the
development and ongoing support of the center. The IA can establish
board participation and enrollment priorities.

[ESTABLISH FEASIBILITY]{.underline} \*

The organizing committee needs to have data that indicates a center is
needed and will be used by employees at this site. A feasibility study
includes:

[EMPLOYEE NEEDS ASSESSMENT - SURVEY or FOCUS GROUPS]{.underline}

(This survey will help determine):

1.  the expected population, thus size of the center

2.  the ages of children in need of care

3.  desired hours of operation

4.  the types of services to be provided

[MARKET SURVEY]{.underline} (This survey will help determine):

1.  the availability of other existing child care services

2.  tuition costs

The feasibility study needs to include the guidance from GSA on
utilization rates and acceptable center size requirements. A center must
be large enough to exist as a viable business.

Community partnerships with non federal entities are permitted and
encouraged. A partnership with a local business or government could make
a center viable where your population alone will not support one. Any
agreements made for sharing a center must be based on the authorities
and requirements of the Trible amendment.

[EVALUATE SPACE NEEDS/SEEK SPACE]{.underline}\*

The organizing committee should obtain copies of the applicable state
and local regulations governing child care centers
(http://nrc.uchsc.edu/states.htm). In most instances child care centers
are required to be on ground floor levels with access to outdoor play
space. The GSA child care coordinator is available to help identify if
appropriate space is available. The agency requests space from GSA. GSA
is responsible for finding, designing and building out the space for the
child care center under established policy. The agency(ies) pay rent to
GSA for the space under established procedures for "common use space".

[EQUIP CENTER]{.underline}

GSA is responsible for the initial purchase of equipment and subsequent
repair and replacement of equipment. GSA does not purchase toys,
curriculum materials or consumable goods, this is the responsibility of
the provider.

[PROVIDE BUILDING SERVICES]{.underline}

GSA is responsible for providing building services to the center, which
include cleaning, utilities, and security systems. The centers are
cleaned at standards for clinical space. Security is provided in
accordance with a GSA security survey and analysis. Services considered
above standard level are paid for by the requesting agency.

[PROVIDE PROGRAM OVERSIGHT]{.underline}

GSA, using independent professionals performs program and health
reviews. GSA professionals perform periodic safety and security reviews.

[DESIGNATE SERVICE PROVIDER]{.underline}

Options for service provider and issuance of GSA License for Use of
Space:

1.  GSA can issue a license directly to a service provider or board. An
    organizing committee or board of directors will issue a
    solicitation, with the guidance of GSA, to select a provider to
    deliver the service. The board will enter into a contract with the
    selected provider and sign a memorandum of understanding with GSA.
    GSA and the board are responsible for oversight of the center and
    ensuring license compliance.

2.  GSA can execute an agreement directly with an agency, which is then
    responsible for selecting a provider, issuing a license and ensuring
    license compliance.

[SECURE CHILD CARE LICENSE]{.underline}

The child care provider is responsible for obtaining and maintaining the
appropriate state/ local licenses.

[HIRE STAFF]{.underline}

Staffing is the key to quality. The provider is responsible for hiring
and training staff. Employee background checks are required. GSA will
perform criminal history background checks.

[MARKET PROGRAM]{.underline}

The child care provider is primarily responsible for marketing the
program initially and on an on going basis. The board of directors must
help in these efforts by at a minimum easing access to employee
newsletters, bulletin boards, and activities.

[OBTAIN LIABILITY INSURANCE]{.underline}

The provider must have liability insurance on the center. The necessity
of insurance for the board of directors is determined locally and is
sometimes carried as a rider on the center's insurance.

[OPEN THE CENTER]{.underline}

Parents typically make child care plans according to the academic year.
All planning should be done to allow for a summer opening. The opening
of a child care center is a time to build networks and to garner
community support. A grand opening ceremony will provide agency
employees and management an opportunity to see the center, meet the
staff and to learn about the program.

\* If your feasibility study proves positive and you are ready to move
ahead with a center you should get a copy of the GSA Board of Directors
Child Care Resource Book and the GSA Child Care Center Design Guide.
Both guides are available from your RCCC or on the web at:
http://www.gsa.gov/pbs/centers/child/child.htm

**Costs**

AGENCY

-   RENT (approximately office rate) Estimate 100 square feet per child

-   Tuition Subsidy (agency may use appropriated funds to help off set
    the tuition costs for lower income employees, P.L. 106-58)

    PARENTS

-   Tuition (market rate)

    *Fundraising dollars raised by the local board of directors is used
    to help reduce the tuition costs for eligible families*

    BUILD OUT AND EQUIPMENT COSTS

-   Construction within existing space: estimated at between \$65 -
    \$100 dollars a square foot. New construction: \$175 dollars a
    square foot

-   Equipment estimated at \$1,000 per child, can be higher if
    playground equipment is not part of initial construction cost

GSA is usually responsible for initial construction and equipment costs
in GSA controlled facilities.

Schedule

  --------------- ----------------------------- ----- ----- ----- ----- ------ ----- ------ ----- ------ ----- ----- ----- ------ ------ ----- ----- ----- ----- ------ ---------------- --------------
                                                                        200-                                               200-                                                          

  TASKS           WHO                           Jan   Feb   Mar   Apr   May    Jun   July   Aug   Sept   Oct   Nov   Dec   Jan    Feb    Mar   Apr   May   Jun   July   Aug              Sept

  Design complete GSA                                                          x                                                                                                         

  Start           GSA                                                                                    x                                                                               
  Constructon                                                                                                                                                                            

  Finish          GSA                                                                                                                                                   x                
  Construction                                                                                                                                                                           

  Create Start-up Agencies                                  x                                                                                                                            
  Board                                                                                                                                                                                  

  File            Board                                                                                                                                                                  
  Incorporation                                                                                                                                                                          

  *write by laws* Board                                                                                                                                                                  

  *write          Board                                                                                                                                                                  
  articles*                                                                                                                                                                              

  File Tax Exempt Board                                                                                                                                                                  

  Develop RFP     Board/GSA                                                                                                x                                                             

  Develop Bidders Board/GSA                                                                                                x                                                             
  List                                                                                                                                                                                   

  Advertise       Board                                                                                                           2wks                                                   

  Pre-Bid Meeting Board/GSA                                                                                                       15th                                                   

  Bid Closes                                                                                                                      end                                                    

  Evaluate offers Board/GSA                                                                                                              x                                               

  *interviews*                                                                                                                                                                           

  *visits*                                                                                                                                                                               

  Make Selection  Board                                                                                                                        1st                                       

  Sign Contract   Board                                                                                                                                                                  

  Sign GSA        ?/GSA                                                                                                                                                                  
  License                                                                                                                                                                                

  Hire Staff      Operator                                                                                                                                                               

  Purchase        Operator                                                                                                                                                               
  Materials                                                                                                                                                                              

  Purchase        GSA                                                                                                                                                                    
  Equipment                                                                                                                                                                              

  State License   Operator                                                                                                                                                               
  Center                                                                                                                                                                                 

  Enroll Children Operator                                                                                                                                                               

  Open Center                                                                                                                                                           **\*\*\*\*\***   **\*\*\*\***

  Dedication      Board/GSA/Operator/Agencies                                                                                                                                            
  Ceremony                                                                                                                                                                               

  Fundraising     Board                                                                                                                                                                  
  Plan                                                                                                                                                                                   

  *CFC                                                                                                                                                                                   
  application*                                                                                                                                                                           

  Tuition Assist  Board                                                                                                                                                                  
  Plan                                                                                                                                                                                   

  Market Center   Operator/Board                                                                                                                                                         

  Seek Corporate  Board                                                                                                                                                                  

  Partners                                                                                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                                                                                         

  All this work                                                                                                                                                                          
  can legally be                                                                                                                                                                         
  done by the                                                                                                                                                                            
  board on                                                                                                                                                                               
  official time                                                                                                                                                                          
  and with gov\'t                                                                                                                                                                        
  supplies and                                                                                                                                                                           
  equipment.                                                                                                                                                                             
  --------------- ----------------------------- ----- ----- ----- ----- ------ ----- ------ ----- ------ ----- ----- ----- ------ ------ ----- ----- ----- ----- ------ ---------------- --------------

> 2
>
> authorities

TITLE 40\--PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PROPERTY, AND WORKS

**Sec. 490b. Child care services for Federal employees in**

**Federal Buildings**

\(a\) Allotment of space; conditions

If any individual or entity which provides or proposes to provide child
care services for Federal employees during fiscal year 1988 or any
fiscal year thereafter, applies to the officer or agency of the United
States charged with the allotment of space in the Federal buildings in
the community or district in which such individual or entity provides or
proposes to provide such service, such officer or agency may allot space
in such a building to such individual or entity if\--

\(1\) such space is available;

\(2\) such officer or agency determines that such space will be used to
provide child care services to children of whom at least 50 percent have
one parent or guardian who is employed by the Federal Government; and

\(3\) such officer or agency determines that such individual or entity
will give priority for available child care services in such space to
Federal employees.

\(b\) Charges for rent or services; payment of costs, accreditation
fees, and travel and per diem expenses; \`\`services\'\' defined

\(1\) If an officer or agency allots space during fiscal year 1988 or
any fiscal year thereafter, to an individual or entity under subsection
(a) of this section, such space may be provided to such individual or
entity without charge for rent or services.

\(2\) If there is an agreement for the payment of costs associated with
the provision of space allotted under subsection (a) of this section or
services provided in connection with such space, nothing in title 31, or
any other provision of law, shall be construed to prohibit or restrict
payment by reimbursement to the miscellaneous receipts or other
appropriate account of the Treasury.

\(3\) If an agency has a child care facility in its space, or is a
sponsoring agency for a child care facility in other Federal or leased
space, the agency or the General Services Administration may pay
accreditation fees, including renewal fees, for that center to be
accredited by a nationally recognized early-childhood professional
organization, and travel and per diem expenses for attendance by
representatives of the center at the annual General Services
Administration child care conference.

\(4\) For the purpose of this subsection, the term \`\`services\'\'

includes the providing of lighting, heating, cooling, electricity,

office furniture, office machines and equipment, classroom furnishings
and equipment, kitchen appliances, playground equipment, telephone
service (including installation of lines and equipment and other
expenses associated with telephone services), and security systems
(including installation and other expenses associated with security
systems), including replacement equipment, as needed.

\(c\) Guidance, assistance, and oversight

Through the General Services Administration\'s licensing agreements, the
Administrator of General Services shall provide guidance, assistance,
and oversight to Federal agencies for the development of child care
centers to promote the provision of economical and effective child care
for Federal workers.

\(d\) Consortium with private entities

If a Federal agency has a child care facility in its space, or is a
sponsoring agency for a child care facility in other Federal or leased
space, the agency or the General Services Administration may enter into
a consortium with one or more private entities under which such private
entities would assist in defraying the costs associated with the
salaries and benefits provided for any personnel providing services at
such facility.

(Pub. L. 100-202, Sec. 101(m) \[title VI, Sec. 616\], Dec. 22, 1987, 101
Stat. 1329-390, 1329-423; Pub. L. 102-393, title V, Sec. 528, Oct.
6,1992, 106 Stat. 1760.)

TITLE 42\--THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE

CHAPTER 132\--VICTIMS OF CHILD ABUSE

**SUBCHAPTER V\--CHILD CARE WORKER EMPLOYEE BACKGROUND CHECKS**

Sec. 13041. Requirement for background checks

\(a\) In general

\(1\) Each agency of the Federal Government, and every facility

operated by the Federal Government (or operated under contract with the

Federal Government), that hires (or contracts for hire) individuals

involved with the provision to children under the age of 18 of child

care services shall assure that all existing and newly-hired employees

undergo a criminal history background check. All existing staff shall

receive such checks not later than May 29, 1991. Except as provided in

subsection (b)(3) of this section, no additional staff shall be hired

without a check having been completed.

\(2\) For the purposes of this section, the term \`\`child care

services\'\' means child protective services (including the
investigation

of child abuse and neglect reports), social services, health and mental

health care, child (day) care, education (whether or not directly

involved in teaching), foster care, residential care, recreational or

rehabilitative programs, and detention, correctional, or treatment

services.

\(b\) Criminal history check

\(1\) A background check required by subsection (a) of this section

shall be\--

\(A\) based on a set of the employee\'s fingerprints obtained by a

law enforcement officer and on other identifying information;

\(B\) conducted through the Identification Division of the Federal

Bureau of Investigation and through the State criminal history

repositories of all States that an employee or prospective employee

lists as current and former residences in an employment application;

and

\(C\) initiated through the personnel programs of the applicable

Federal agencies.

\(2\) The results of the background check shall be communicated to the

employing agency.

\(3\) An agency or facility described in subsection (a)(1) of this

section may hire a staff person provisionally prior to the completion of

a background check if, at all times prior to receipt of the background

check during which children are in the care of the person, the person is

within the sight and under the supervision of a staff person with

respect to whom a background check has been completed.

\(c\) Applicable criminal histories

Any conviction for a sex crime, an offense involving a child victim,

or a drug felony, may be ground for denying employment or for dismissal

of an employee in any of the positions listed in subsection (a)(2) of

this section. In the case of an incident in which an individual has been

charged with one of those offenses, when the charge has not yet been

disposed of, an employer may suspend an employee from having any contact

with children while on the job until the case is resolved. Conviction of

a crime other than a sex crime may be considered if it bears on an

individual\'s fitness to have responsibility for the safety and well-

being of children.

\(d\) Employment applications

\(1\) Employment applications for individuals who are seeking work for

an agency of the Federal Government, or for a facility or program

operated by (or through contract with) the Federal Government, in any of

the positions listed in subsection (a)(1) of this section, shall contain

a question asking whether the individual has ever been arrested for or

charged with a crime involving a child, and if so requiring a

description of the disposition of the arrest or charge. An application

shall state that it is being signed under penalty of perjury, with the

applicable Federal punishment for perjury stated on the application.

\(2\) A Federal agency seeking a criminal history record check shall

first obtain the signature of the employee or prospective employee

indicating that the employee or prospective employee has been notified

of the employer\'s obligation to require a record check as a condition
of

employment and the employee\'s right to obtain a copy of the criminal

history report made available to the employing Federal agency and the

right to challenge the accuracy and completeness of any information

contained in the report.

\(e\) Encouragement of voluntary criminal history checks for others who

may have contact with children

Federal agencies and facilities are encouraged to submit identifying

information for criminal history checks on volunteers working in any of

the positions listed in subsection (a) of this section and on adult

household members in places where child care or foster care services are

being provided in a home.

(Pub. L. 101-647, title II, Sec. 231, Nov. 29, 1990, 104 Stat. 4808;

Pub. L. 102-190, div. A, title X, Sec. 1094(a), Dec. 5, 1991, 105 Stat.

1488.)

Amendments

1991\--Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 102-190, Sec. 1094(a)(1), substituted

\`\`May 29, 1991. Except as provided in subsection (b)(3) of this
section,

no additional staff\'\' for \`\`6 months after November 29, 1990, and no

additional staff\'\'.

Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 102-190, Sec. 1094(a)(2), added par. (3).

TREASURY AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2000

Public Law 106-58

106th Congress

An Act

Making appropriations for the Treasury Department, the United States
Postal Service, the Executive Office of the President, and certain
Independent Agencies, for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2000, and
for other purposes. Sept. 29, 1999 - \[H.R. 2490\]

**Sec. 643. (a)** In General.\--Upon promulgation of the regulations

required under subsection (c), **an Executive agency which provides or
proposes to provide child care services for Federal employees may use
appropriated funds (otherwise available to such agency for salaries) to
provide child care, in a Federal or leased facility, or through
contract, for civilian employees of such agency.**

\(b\) Affordability.\--Amounts so provided with respect to any such
facility or contractor shall be applied to improve the affordability of
child care for lower income Federal employees using or seeking to use
the child care services offered by such facility or contractor.

\(c\) Regulations.\--The Office of Personnel Management shall, within
180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, issue regulations
necessary to carry out this section.

\(d\) Definition.\--For purposes of this section, the term \`\`Executive
agency\'\' has the meaning given such term by section 105 of title 5,
United States Code, but does not include the General Accounting Office.

\(e\) Notification.\--None of the funds made available in this or any
other Act may be used to implement the provisions of this section absent
advance notification to the Committees on Appropriations.

From the 1998 Presidential Documents Online via GPO Access
\[frwais.access.gpo.gov\]

Monday, March 16, 1998

Volume 34\--Number 11

Week Ending Friday, March 13, 1998

# Memorandum on Steps To Improve Federally Sponsored Child Care

# March 10, 1998

## Memorandum for the Heads of Executive Departments and Agencies

# Subject: Steps to Improve Federally Sponsored Child Care

Now more than ever, America\'s working parents are struggling to balance
their obligations to be good workers\--and their more important
obligations to be good parents. By choice or by financial necessity,
millions of Americans rely on child care to care for their children for
part of each day. Parents deserve to know that their children are safe

and nurtured in child care.

One of my highest priorities is to make child care better, safer, and
more affordable. That is why my balanced budget includes the most
significant investment in child care in our Nation\'s history and
proposes specific measures to improve child care quality.

As a supplier of child care and as an employer that must recruit and
retain a strong workforce, the Federal Government should lead the way in
improving child care. I am proud that our military has developed one of
the finest child care delivery systems in the world, and that the
Department of Defense, at my request, is sharing its expertise with the

public and private sectors. Still, we need to do more. The executive
branch of the Federal Government has responsibility for over 1,000 child
care centers\--788 through the military, 109 through the General
Services Administration, and 127 through other Federal departments. In
addition, the military oversees nearly 10,000 professional family child
care

providers. In total, approximately 215,000 children are in our care.

Today I am directing my Administration to take significant new steps to
improve the quality of Federally sponsored child care in the executive
branch by (1) ensuring proper background checks of child care workers;
(2) achieving 100 percent independent accreditation of all eligible
centers; (3) exploring partnerships among Federal agencies and with the
private sector to improve child care quality and affordability; and (4)
ensuring

that all Federal workers become better informed of child care benefits
and the options available to them.

First, all child care workers in Federally sponsored centers should
undergo thorough background checks to make sure that our children are
safe. The vast majority of child care workers are caring people who have
dedicated their lives to teaching and nurturing children. But one
tragedy in child care is too many, and criminal and civil background
checks are necessary to determine whether the people caring for our
children are fit for this responsibility. The military already has a
model system to conduct background checks of child care workers. I now
want to guarantee that workers at all nonmilitary, Federal child care
facilities undergo such background checks in a thorough and timely
fashion.

I therefore direct the Administrator of General Services
(\`\`Administrator\'\') to report to me, within 90 days, with a plan to
ensure complete and timely background checks, to the fullest extent
possible, for all child care workers in nonmilitary, Federally sponsored
child care settings. Agencies with oversight of nonmilitary child care
settings will report to the Administrator within 60 days on this matter.

Second, all Federally sponsored child care centers should receive
nationally recognized, independent accreditation as soon as they are
eligible to do so. Currently, only 76 percent of military centers, and
35 percent of other Federally sponsored centers, are accredited. By the

year 2000, 100 percent should be accredited. I therefore direct the
Secretary of Defense and the Administrator to provide me, within 90
days, with a plan to ensure, to the fullest extent possible,
independent, nationally recognized accreditation of all eligible,
Federally sponsored child care by the year 2000. Agencies with oversight
of non-military child care settings shall report to the Administrator
within 60 days on this matter.

Third, partnerships among Federal agencies and with the private sector
are an increasingly important way to maximize existing resources and
improve child care. I therefore direct the Administrator to work with
the heads of all Federal departments and agencies to explore
opportunities for collaboration both within Government and with the

private sector to improve child care quality and affordability in
Federally sponsored settings.

Finally, employers have a responsibility to make sure that their workers
are better informed on child care and the options available to them at
the national, State, and local levels. I therefore direct the Director
of the Office of Personnel Management (\`\`Director\'\') to ensure that,
to the fullest extent possible, all Federal workers receive full
information about child care benefits available to them on the Federal,
State, and local levels, including information on resource and referral
networks, available tax credits such as the Child and Dependent Care Tax
Credit and Child Tax Credit, as well as public subsidies. The Director

shall also host a nationwide summit designed to showcase model public
and private sector solutions to child care needs.

William J. Clinton

> 3
>
> surveys

Child Care Center Feasibility

**Background:** In 1991 GSA's Office of Child Care and Development
Programs conducted a national survey to assess the utilization rate of
child care centers located in GSA controlled space. The study sought to
find a relationship between the number of Federal employees located in a
building or within a close proximity to the building where Federal
families are housed and the actual number of Federal families who
enrolled children in the center. The study also considered the
relationship of needs assessment results and actual utilization rates.

**Results:** Results showed that most centers enroll between 2% and 5%
of the overall Federal population. The variance is related to quality of
the center, marketing efforts, tuition costs, and other characteristics
unique to a particular center. The study also showed that approximately
20% of the affirmative responses on the needs assessments become actual
users of the center.

**Recommendations and Discussion**: GSA recommends that agencies conduct
a market availability survey to identify other child care in the area
available to the Federal population and a needs assessment and factor in
the utilization formula described above to make a determination to
construct a child care center. The needs assessment is weighted less
heavily than the remaining factors since it is typically conducted with
a population of employees whose children may be too old once the center
is built. In addition, the results of the needs assessment typically
inflates the true interest in center use since parents may discover
tuition rates are unaffordable, the quality is insufficient or local
care is more attractive for them. Thus, the needs assessment results
must be used with extreme caution.

If overall age of female Federal employees is older than the average age
of child bearing women, the true utilization rate will be lower. We are
seeing an ever increasing number of Federal employees who are bringing
their grandchildren to the centers but we have not yet done a study on
this group.

To assure the financial viability of a center, GSA strongly recommends
no center be built for fewer than 74 children. The child care centers
are operated as independent businesses with no service fees provided by
the government. In some communities providers can be hard to find if the
proposed center is too small. Infant care can be twice as expensive as
preschool care and the proper balance between age groups must be sought
to make the budget work. Smaller centers without infant care can
sometimes be viable.

Under the authority of 40 U.S.C. 490b commonly known as the Trible
Amendment agencies may provide space and service to the centers. In FY
2000 agencies were authorized to use appropriated funds to subsidize the
cost of care for lower income Federal employees. (P.L. 106-58)

Employee Needs Assessment Survey

Adapting the Questionnaire to Address Local Circumstances

Modification of the questionnaire form to meet local requirements and
circumstances is encouraged. The questionnaire should not be so brief
that information necessary for the program planning is not collected
from the potential users, nor should it be so detailed as to confuse and
intimidate employees. Where circumstances dictate changes, working with
local agency managers, employees and union representatives to make those
modifications will help avoid potential misunderstanding.

We have found return rates on surveys to be around 35%. Where a large
population is to be surveyed, 3,000 or more, you may want to consider
having a service take care of the printing and tabulating. Child care
consultants or universities have been used for this purpose. In smaller
populations the committee can probably tabulate the surveys by hand.
Your computer systems department may be able to format and automate the
survey on your e-mail system.

# Elements of the Needs Assessment Survey

The needs assessment questionnaire responses are a vitally important
part of the child care planning process. The following is an examination
of the questions to better understand what the survey results might
indicate. The questions seek to provide a localized profile of the
Federal employee population. These questions address the following
topics:

-   The number of children, their ages and projected additions to the
    family, enable a determination as to the estimated population of the
    center, both in the short and longer term (questions 1 and 2)

-   The present child care arrangements made by parents and its cost.
    The respondents are asked about their willingness to change those
    child care arrangements, and their specific interest in on-site care
    (questions 3, 4, and 5)

-   The amount of money that parents would be willing to pay for care,
    to get an idea as to the tuition cost target and fund raising goals
    which the organizing committee might need to aim for (questions 6
    and 7)

-   The logistics of work location, transportation, work schedules, as
    those responses may determine the likelihood of an employee to
    enroll his or her child, and may affect policies of the center such
    as hours of operation, and whether to make intermittent or part-time
    care available (questions II-1, 4, 5 and 6)

-   The need for child care from, the perspective of the employer,
    (questions II-2 and 3)

In addition, the opportunity for a written response is provided to allow
employees space to share their own views and opinions regarding on-site
child care.

# Interpreting the Survey Responses

The primary purpose for conducting the needs assessment survey is to
determine the need for a child care center, its potential enrollment and
the size of the center. This level of demand will change over time, but
from survey questions addressing both current and projected family size,
along with history of employee turnover observed by local agency
management, the immediate and longer term viability of the center can be
estimated.

No specific numbers or pattern of survey responses can be offered as a
firm cut off point for determining whether or not a center should be
established. The percent of employees who actually use the center is
typically around 20 to 30 percent of the positive survey numbers.

Each potential site must be carefully reviewed and assessed on a
case-by-case basis. Factors such as the historical employee turnover
rate, the typical age of new hires and the long term staffing plans for
the agency will influence the decision to establish a center.

As noted above the various questions on the survey are included to
provide more information than simply projecting the size and capacity of
the center. Knowing parents' current child care arrangements, their
degree of satisfaction with their current arrangements, what they
presently pay for care, what they would be willing to pay and whether
they would enroll their child in the on-site center if one was
established, is necessary to the overall planning process.

The answers provided in response to the survey when viewed in the
aggregate, can help direct the program planning activities of the child
care organizing committee and the provider, as well as the
administrative decisions of the local Board of Directors. Such issues
might include; is a kindergarten class needed? Should a hot breakfast
and lunch be served? What should the hours of operation be? What is an
acceptable level of tuition?

Addressing these questions early in the life of the center will enhance
the probability of rapid and sustained enrollment, thus ensuring the
ongoing viability of the center.

Model Child Care Needs Assessment

Please take a few moments to respond to these questions. The answers you
provide are essential for planning a possible on-site child care center.
This survey will also help determine the capacity of the center as well
as the type of care needed now and in the future.

This information will be used for planning purposes only. Your
participation in the survey does not obligate you in any way.

Please return this survey by \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
to\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

(date) (surveyor)

Your
Agency:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

1.  Do you have children who require child care while you work?

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Yes \_\_\_\_\_\_\_No

How many children do you have, and what are their ages? (For each age
range, indicate the number of children in your family.)

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Infant \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ 4 year old

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ 1 year old \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ 5 year old

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ 2 year old \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_school age
(6-12)

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ 3 year old

2.  Do you plan to have children or adopt children within the next 2-3
    years?

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Yes \_\_\_\_\_\_\_No

> What type(s) of on-site child care services do you think

you might need in the next 3 years? (check all that apply)

\_\_\_\_\_Infant care \_\_\_\_\_\_ Full time \_\_\_\_\_\_After School
care

> \_\_\_\_\_Toddler care \_\_\_\_\_\_ Part time \_\_\_\_\_ Summer or
> Holiday
>
> Program (for ages 6 - 12)

\_\_\_\_\_Preschool care \_\_\_\_\_\_ Drop-in/back up

\_\_\_\_\_On-site Kindergarten \_\_\_\_\_\_ Other (include special
needs)

3.  What type of child care arrangement do you currently have?

\_\_\_\_\_In-home sitter \_\_\_\_\_\_ Child care in someone's home

\_\_\_\_\_ Child Care Center \_\_\_\_\_\_Stay with relative

\_\_\_\_\_Other
(explain)\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

4.  Do you anticipate changing your child care arrangements in the next
    6 months?

\_\_\_\_\_yes \_\_\_\_\_\_no

If you answered yes to question 4, please indicate your reason(s) for
the decision.

\_\_\_\_\_Inconvenient location \_\_\_\_\_Not dependable

\_\_\_\_\_Too costly \_\_\_\_\_ No interaction with other children

\_\_\_\_\_Limited Educational value \_\_\_\_\_Safety/Sanitation

\_\_\_\_\_Inconvenient hours \_\_\_\_\_Limited individual attention

\_\_\_\_\_other
(specify)\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

5.  If a child care center for children of Federal employees were
    established, would you consider enrolling your child if it were:

On site? \_\_\_\_\_\_ Yes \_\_\_\_\_ No

Nearby? \_\_\_\_\_\_Yes \_\_\_\_\_No

6.  What are you presently paying per child for child care?

\_\_\_\_\_ Less than \$70 per week \_\_\_\_\_\$70 - \$80 per week

\_\_\_\_\_\$80 - \$90 per week \_\_\_\_\_\$90 - \$100 per week

\_\_\_\_\_\$100 -- \$120 per week \_\_\_\_\_\$120 - \$140 per week

\_\_\_\_\_\$140 - \$160 per week \_\_\_\_\_\$160 - \$180 per week

\_\_\_\_\_\$ more than \$180 per week

7.  What tuition are you [willing to pay]{.underline} for on-site child
    care for your child?

\_\_\_\_\_\$80 - \$90 per week \_\_\_\_\_\$90 - \$100 per week

\_\_\_\_\_\$100 -- \$120 per week \_\_\_\_\_\$120 - \$140 per week

\_\_\_\_\_\$140 - \$160 per week \_\_\_\_\_\$160 - \$180 per week

\_\_\_\_\_\$more than \$180 per week

II\. Some Questions About You.

1\. How do you get to and from work?

\_\_\_\_\_Public Transportation \_\_\_\_\_Member of car pool

\_\_\_\_\_Drive own car \_\_\_\_\_Other (walk, ride bike)

2\. In the past 6 months, how many whole working days have you missed
due to some child care related problem?

\_\_\_\_\_Not any \_\_\_\_\_One time \_\_\_\_\_Two times \_\_\_\_\_Three
or more

3.  In the past 6 months, how may times have you missed from 15 minutes
    to one half day of work due to a child care-related problem?

\_\_\_\_\_Not any \_\_\_\_\_One time \_\_\_\_\_Two times \_\_\_\_\_Three
or more

4\. What are your normal working hours?

Time of your arrival:

\_\_\_\_\_6:00-6:30 a.m. \_\_\_\_\_6:30-7:00 a.m. \_\_\_\_\_7:00-7:30
a.m.

\_\_\_\_\_7:30-8:00 a.m \_\_\_\_\_8:00-8:30 a.m. \_\_\_\_\_8:30-9:00
a.m.

Time of your departure:

\_\_\_\_\_2:30-3:00 p.m. \_\_\_\_\_3:00-3:30 p.m. \_\_\_\_\_3:30-4:00
p.m.

\_\_\_\_\_4:00-4:30 p.m \_\_\_\_\_4:30-5:00 p.m. \_\_\_\_\_5:00-5:30
p.m.

\_\_\_\_\_5:30-6:00 p.m. \_\_\_\_\_6:00-6:30 p.m.

5\. How often do you work overtime? (circle your answer)

Constantly Frequently Seasonally Seldom Never

6\. How often do you travel on business? (circle your answer)

Constantly Frequently Seasonally Seldom Never

Typical travel schedule is \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ days per month.

I would be willing to work on setting up and supporting a child care
center if one is established:

\_\_\_\_\_Yes \_\_\_\_\_No

If you answered yes, please supply the following information:

Name\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_Agency\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Phone number at work:
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_email\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

> YOUR COMMENTS PLEASE

THANK YOU

![](media/image4.jpeg){width="6.2965277777777775in"
height="8.371527777777779in"}

![](media/image5.jpeg){width="6.297916666666667in"
height="8.785416666666666in"}MARKET SURVEY

The following market survey will be used to assess each child care
facility located within the worksite or a 5 block radius of the
worksite. Worksites located in rural areas should extend their areas of
consideration to commuting routes.

Note: This survey should be conducted by the appointed child care
representative and not be performed by all employees.

1.  Name of Child Care Center:
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

    Address and proximity to worksite:
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

    Child Care Center is managed by :

    \_\_\_\_\_ National for-profit Provider

    \_\_\_\_\_ Local Independent for-profit Provider

    \_\_\_\_\_ Local not- for- profit Provider

    \_\_\_\_\_ National affiliated not-for-profit Provider

    \_\_\_\_\_ Church Sponsored

    \_\_\_\_\_ Federal/State/Local government

2.  What age range does the center accommodate and how many children are
    currently enrolled in each category:

    Age No. enrolled Waiting List Length of wait

    Infant \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

    Toddler \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

    Two's \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

    Pre-K \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

    School age \_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
    \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

3.  What are the center
    hours:\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

4.  Does the center charge an additional fee for "extra" hours or late
    pick up?

5.  In which geographic location do the majority of your patrons work?

6.  How many Federal employees' children are currently
    enrolled?\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

7.  What are the WEEKLY child care rates:

    Age Full time part time multi child discount

    Infant \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

    Toddler \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

    Two's \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

    Pre-K \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

    School age \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

8.  Are meals
    included?\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

9\. Is the center currently accredited by the National Academy of Early

Childhood Programs?
NAEYC\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

10\. Are there plans to become accredited?
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

11. What is the teacher/ child
    ratio?\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

12. What is the level of parental involvement at the
    center?\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

13\. What supplies are parents expected to
bring?\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

14. Are there any plans in the immediate future to expand the facility?

    Yes\_\_\_\_\_\_ NO\_\_\_\_\_\_

    If yes, please explain:

15. Are you aware of any child care centers planning to expand or any
    new

centers opening? Yes\_\_\_\_\_\_ NO \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

If yes, please explain:

> 4

roles & responsibilities

#  

# **ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES**

**GSA:**

Sets policy for the child care program nationwide - Provides finished
space, services, utilities and equipment to the center - Conducts
background checks on center staff - Sets and oversees quality standards
through a license agreement - Trains and provides materials for boards,
agencies and providers

**TENANT AGENCIES:**

Sponsor the center for their employees and pay RENT, generally assigned
as joint use space - May appoint board members, may provide direction to
the board - May allocate resources for lower income federal employees to
use for tuition - May allocate recycling funds to be used for tuition
assistance programs - May provide space for fund-raising activities.

**BOARD OF DIRECTORS:**

Make quality child care available to federal employees and others in the
local commuting area - Select the provider - Support the program -
Fund-raise and administer a tuition assistance program - Help market the
center - Serve as a liaison between the government, the provider, and
the parents - Monitor center goals and board effectiveness.

**PROVIDER:**

Operate a high quality, state licensed and NAEYC accredited child care
center, this includes: hiring staff, establishing curriculum, collecting
fees, marketing the center, maintaining liability insurance, and serving
the families.

**STATE AND/OR LOCAL LICENSING AUTHORITIES:**

Set minimum quality standards for child care centers. Ensure compliance
and investigate complaints - Inspect the centers, including health,
program and fire safety inspections.

INTERAGENCY AGREEMENT

BETWEEN

# List Participating Agencies 

**I. Purpose**

This Interagency Agreement (IA) sets forth the terms and conditions
under which a child care facility shall be provided start up assistance
and other support and oversight for the benefit of the employees of
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

**II. Authority**

This IA is entered into pursuant to the authority contained in the
Economy Act, section 1535 of Title 31, United States Code. The parties
have determined that the services provided pursuant to this IA cannot be
obtained as economically or as conveniently from a commercial
enterprise, or by the parties acting independently from one another, and
that the IA is in the best interest of the Government. Authority
allowing Federal agencies to establish child care centers is provided
under 40 U.S.C. 490b.

**III. Background**

Each of the parties to this IA has determined that a child care facility
is necessary for the welfare of its employees. Employer support for
child care services is a well established mechanism for increasing
productivity through improved staff recruitment and retention, reduced
absenteeism, and higher employee morale. Such services are especially
important for lower graded employees, who may find child care services
difficult to obtain and the lack of such services an impediment to
employment or advancement. In furtherance of this commitment to
providing their employees with child care services, the participating
agencies have formed an interagency working group to oversee the actions
necessary to establish a facility. The facility is defined as the
physical space that houses the children and child care staff and in
which a profit or nonprofit organization operates a child care center.
In addition, the participating agencies will also provide assistance in
forming a board of directors incorporated as a not for profit
organization to oversee, support and generate scholarship dollars and
administer a tuition assistance program for the child care center.

**IV. General Provisions:** *would include discussion of sponsorship of
committee members, reporting requirements of the committee to the
agencies, discussion of appointed or volunteer participation (can be
either or combination of both)*

**V. Responsibilities:** *include specific number of committee members
per agency, expected work products, accessibility to employee
newsletters for board and center marketing efforts, etc.*

**VI. Financial Arrangements:** *to include one time or ongoing dollar
commitments,including formula for sharing RENT if applicable (based on
total employee base, or specific purchased long term slots) Include
provision for paying for board or center staff to go to the GSA
conference per authorities of 490b.*

**VII. Effective Date and Duration**

This IA is effective on the date of the last signature below by the
approving officials and will continue in effect for each participating
agency unless and until an agency withdraws by giving written notice at
least 90 days before the end of its participation. Furnishings and other
Government owned personal property provided for the facility will remain
in the possession of the facility and under control of the designated
property officer.

**VIII. Modifications**

This IA may be modified at any time by written agreement of the parties.

**IX. Approvals**

On behalf of our respective agencies, this IA is approved.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Approving Official Date

Title

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Approving Official Date

Title

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Approving Official Date

Title

> 5
>
> standards

# Standards

CARING

FOR

OUR CHILDREN

NATIONAL HEALTH AND

PERFORMANCE STANDARS:

GUIDELINES FOR OUT-OF-HOME

CHILD CARE PROGRAMS

NAEYC

ACCREDITATION CRITERIA

NATIONAL ACADEMY OF EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS

GSA STANDARDS/LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

CPSC SAFETY CHECKLIST + HANDBOOK FOR PUBLIC PLAYGROUNDS

STATE LICENSING STANDARDS/ LOCAL LICENSING STANDARDS

MUST MAINTAIN AND DISPLAY A STATE LICENSE

All centers must be State licensed. In some areas a local city license
may also be required. State requirements can be found on the following
WEB site: [http://nrc.uchsc.edu](http://nrc.uchsc.edu/)

We consider the requirements of the State license to be the minimum
requirements. To operate in GSA federal space you must also meet our GSA
license requirements. These requirements are outlined in the *special
conditions* of the license for use of space and include the guidelines
from our Design Guide and Security Survey. In addition we follow the
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) guidelines as our standard for
playgrounds and for safety requirements within the space.

Additionally, centers must operate a program that follows the National
Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) criteria for
accreditation. That means, in staffing, group sizes and ratios, the
center is required to follow NAEYC standards if they differ from State
requirements. (We use the most stringent requirements)

Finally, if there is a question of standard not specifically addressed
by NAEYC our GSA license or the State, we defer to the standards in
"Caring for our Children." ![](media/image6.jpeg){width="6.3in"
height="8.615277777777777in"}![](media/image7.jpeg){width="6.2972222222222225in"
height="8.63125in"}

SPECIAL CONDITIONS TO THE LICENSING AGREEMENT BETWEEN

GSA AND

1.[LICENSE AUTHORITY]{.underline}

This license is granted pursuant to the authority of and subject to the
conditions in 40 U.S.C. 490b. The Child Care Provider who provides child
care at the site agrees to abide by these Special Conditions.

2.[CRIMINAL HISTORY BACKGROUND CHECKS]{.underline}

The Child Care Provider and its employees are subject to the Crime
Control Act of 1990 Public Law 101-647 as amended by Public Law 102-190,
dated December 5, 1991, and will submit to criminal history background
checks. Providers or employees who have a conviction for sex crimes,
offenses involving children as victims, or drug felonies will be denied
employment or dismissed, except that for a conviction of a crime other
than a sex crime or offense involving children the government will
review the facts of the individual case before exercising its right to
deny or have terminated the employment of that employee.

In addition, the Child Care Provider and its employees are subject to
any other checks as may be required by GSA, and any pertinent local
regulatory authorities. The child care provider will certify that they
have completed appropriate background checks of each new hire to
include: reference, employment and educational certification.

[NATIONAL ACCREDITATION]{.underline}

The child care provider shall begin the National Association for the
Education of Young Children (NAEYC) accreditation process within one
year of operation and will achieve accreditation within 2 years of
operation. The child care provider will maintain accreditation through
the renewal process of the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs.

4.[TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF OCCUPANCY]{.underline}

The child care center will be operated in accordance with the following
terms and conditions:

a.  Maintain and operate a developmental child care program from a.m. to
    p.m., Monday through Friday except on Federal holidays[. *The child
    care center may be closed one week per year for
    maintenance.*]{.underline}

b.  The center\'s employees shall comply with all building regulations
    and special building security arrangements. Building security
    arrangements may include the display of Government-furnished
    identification (ID) cards, where required. All Government furnished
    IDs remain the property of the Government and must be surrendered to
    the Provider\'s management by all center employees leaving the
    Provider\'s employ. Such IDs must then be immediately returned to
    the Government\'s designated building security officer.

c.  The Child Care Provider shall not discriminate on the basis of race,
    religion, color, national origin or disability with respect to
    enrollment of children or employment of staff.

d.  By signing this agreement the Child Care Provider has acknowledged
    receipt of and use of equipment and other property as furnished by
    the government, and shall provide routine care of any government
    furnished equipment during the term of this license.

e.  The Child Care Provider shall be responsible for any damage to the
    equipment arising from wrongful acts or acts of negligence of the
    Child Care Provider.

f.  The Child Care Provider must maintain the facility in a clean and
    safe manner. General housekeeping is expected so that the center
    appears clean and well kept at all times. Cleaning responsibilities
    of the provider include, but are not limited to: cleaning and
    sanitizing of all toys, toy shelves, children's furniture, kitchen
    appliances inside and out, kitchen pantries, storage closets
    including shelves, as well as pet cages and aquariums. Immediate
    spot cleaning is required during snacks, mealtimes, during and after
    craft projects, etc. Storage of all bleach/sanitizing solutions will
    be out of reach of children.

g.  The Child Care Provider must ensure that staff members have had
    training in the prevention and detection of child abuse, valid first
    aid certifications in employees' files and demonstrate verifiable
    staff training in emergency and evacuation procedures, and other
    training that may be required by State or local licensing
    authorities. This requirement is in addition to the training
    requirements per accreditation and state criteria.

h.  The Child Care Provider will ensure that all incidents occurring in
    the center: criminal incidents or accidents/incidents requiring
    immediate professional medical attention are immediately reported to
    the Federal Protective Service. The Child Care Provider will ensure
    that notification of the incident is provided to the regional child
    care coordinator as soon as possible but no later than 24 hours
    after the occurrence.

i.  The Child Care Provider will notify the appropriate local authority
    in cases of suspected child abuse or neglect per Public Law 104-28.
    The Federal Protective Service will not be notified in these matters
    unless the suspected abuse occurred on site, in which case the FPS
    is notified in addition to the appropriate local authority.

j.  The Child Care Provider will post in a public area of the center its
    current state or local license to operate a child care center.

k.  The Child Care Provider will comply with all Federal, State or local
    safety policies, including the smoking policy.

l.  The Child Care Provider will post an emergency evacuation plan for
    the center. The Child Care Provider will ensure that a fire drill is
    conducted by the staff at the Child Care Center at least monthly and
    will keep a record of these drills available to GSA upon request.
    The Child Care Provider will work with appropriate Government
    officials to ensure that the center's evacuation plan is
    appropriately incorporated into the occupant emergency plan (OEP)
    for the building.

m.  The GSA Regional Child Care Coordinator, will on a regular basis,
    collect demographic data and other pertinent information relating to
    center operations. The Child Care Provider will respond in a timely
    and expeditious manner.

n.  The Child Care Provider must demonstrate that it is financially
    capable of continuing its operations under the terms of its license
    to use space. The child care provider agrees to provide upon request
    financial statements, which may include quarterly financial
    statements and/or an annual audit by an independent reviewer.

o.  The Child Care Provider shall provide all supplies (consumables and
    manipulatives) such as toys, food and curriculum materials which
    remain the property of the provider.

p.  The Child Care Provider shall market the program, its quality and
    availability to Federal employees and others. This can be
    accomplished through newsletters, posters, building displays, lunch
    & learns, flyers, e-mail and other marketing techniques.

5\. [GSA INITIATED REVIEWS]{.underline}

The Child Care Provider shall agree to have GSA initiated program,
health and safety assessments accomplished on center operations and
shall meet all requirements as a result of these reviews.

6\. [STATUS OF THE CHILD CARE PROVIDER]{.underline}

The Child Care Provider is not an employee or agent of the Government.
Parents with children enrolled at the center shall contract directly
with the Child Care Provider. Except for matters explicitly addressed in
this license, decisions and responsibilities with respect to program,
levels of enrollment, fees, tuition, hiring, policy making, and any and
all other aspects of the operation and conduct of the Center\'s business
shall be the exclusive right, prerogative, and responsibility of the
Child Care Provider.

7[. PRIORITY ENROLLMENT]{.underline}

The Child Care Provider shall give priority for available child care
services to employees of the sponsoring agencies. Per the conditions of
40 U.S.C. 490b Federal employees will be given priority placement for
all available spaces and at least 50% of the children enrolled in the
center are to be children or dependents of Federal employees. If this
requirement is not met a plan must be put into effect to increase
Federal enrollment. Remaining enrollment may be open to the general
public.

8\. [INSURANCE]{.underline}

The Child Care Provider shall, at its own expense, provide and maintain
during the term of this license, and any extension thereof,
comprehensive liability insurance in an amount not less than \$1
million. A copy of the insurance certificate including renewals shall be
provided to GSA prior to occupancy of the center or as soon thereafter
as possible. An accident insurance policy will be maintained on all
students by the Child Care Provider.

9.[TUITION ASSISTANCE]{.underline}

A tuition assistance program for families in economic need shall be
established. The tuition assistance program *can/will* be established
through a nonprofit Federal employee organization. Participation in the
Combined Federal Campaign or local United Way campaign should be
planned.

10\. [TERMINATION]{.underline}

GSA or the Child Care Provider may terminate this license after
\_\_\_\_\_ days written notice, or immediately if there is a substantial
breach of the conditions of this license.

11\. [EFFECTIVE DATE AND DURATION]{.underline}

This agreement is effective on the date of the last signature and will
continue in effect for each party unless and until terminated by either
party under the conditions in section 10 of this agreement. *(Can set a
term)*

12\. [MODIFICATIONS]{.underline}

This agreement may be modified at any time by written agreement of the
parties.

13\. [CHANGES IN STATUS]{.underline}

The Child Care Provider agrees to notify GSA immediately of any changes
in the manner in which the Center is being operated or in its change of
status including the creation of any public private partnerships. This
license is nontransferable and may be cancelled if the provider sells
its business.

**NATIONAL RESOURCE CENTER FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY IN CHILD CARE**

<http://nrc.uchsc.edu/states.html> phone 1-800-589-KIDS

\<!\-- commented out section

TEST\...\...\...\.....

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#8FBC8F Pale Green

#BC8F8F Pink-grey

#D9D9F3 Lavendar

#38B0DE Bright Aqua

#ADEAEA Turquoise

\--\>

Individual States\' Child Care Licensure Regulations:\* \<!DOCTYPE HTML
SYSTEM \"html.dtd\"\>

+-------------------+---------------+---------------+----------------+
|  **[Alabama](..   | *             | [**Montana*   | [**Rhode       |
| /al/index.html)** | *[Illinois](. | *](../montana | Islan          |
| (334)242-1425     | ./illinois/il | /montana.htm) | d**](../rhodis |
|                   | linois.htm)** |               | l/rhodisl.htm) |
|                   |               | (406)444-7770 | (401)222-4741  |
|                   | (217)524-1983 |               |                |
+-------------------+---------------+---------------+----------------+
| **[Alaska](../ala | **[Indiana]   | [             | [**South       |
| ska/alaska.htm)** | (../indiana/i | **Nebraska**] | Carolina**]    |
| (907)465-3170     | ndiana.htm)** | (../nebraska/ | (../sc/sc.htm) |
|                   | (317)232-4740 | nebraska.htm) |                |
|                   |               |               | \(803\)        |
|                   |               | (402)471-9302 | 898-7345       |
+-------------------+---------------+---------------+----------------+
| [**               | **            | **[Nevad      | [**South       |
| Arizona**](../ari | [Iowa](../iow | a](../nevada/ | Dakota**](../s |
| zona/arizona.htm) | a/iowa.htm)** | nevada.htm)** | d/s_dakot.htm) |
|                   |               |               | (605)773-4766  |
| (602)674-4220     | (515)281-4357 | \(775\)       |                |
|                   |               | 687-4232      |                |
+-------------------+---------------+---------------+----------------+
| [**Arkansas**](   | [**Kansa      | **[New        | [**Te          |
| ../ar/index.html) | s**](../kansa | Hampshire]    | nnessee**](../ |
|                   | s/kansas.htm) | (../newhamp/n | tenn/tenn.htm) |
| (501)682-8590     |               | ewhamp.htm)** |                |
|                   | (785)296-1270 | (603)         | (615)313-4778  |
|                   |               | 271-4624      |                |
+-------------------+---------------+---------------+----------------+
| [**California**]  | [**Kentucky*  | [**New        | [**            |
| (../ca/Calif.htm) | *](../kentuc/ | Jersey*       | Texas**](../te |
|                   | kentucky.htm) | *](../njersey | xas/texas.htm) |
| (916)657-2586     |               | /njersey.htm) | (512)438-3262  |
|                   | (502)564-2800 |               |                |
|                   |               | \(609\)       |                |
|                   |               | 292-1018      |                |
+-------------------+---------------+---------------+----------------+
| [**Colorado**](   | **[Louisian   | [**New        | [**Utah**](../ |
| ../co/index.html) | a](../louise/ | Mexico*       | utah/utah.htm) |
|                   | louise.htm)** | *](../nmexico | (801)538-9299  |
| 800-799-5876      |               | /nmexico.htm) |                |
|                   | \(225\)       |               |                |
|                   | 922-0015      | \(505\)       |                |
|                   |               | 827-7499      |                |
+-------------------+---------------+---------------+----------------+
| **[Connecticut](  | **[Ma         | [**New        | [**Vermo       |
| ../ct/conn.htm)** | ine](../maine | York*         | nt**](../vermn |
|                   | /maine.htm)** | *](../newyork | t/vermont.htm) |
| (860)509-8004     |               | /newyork.htm) |                |
|                   | (207)287-5060 |               | \(802\)        |
|                   |               | (518)474-9454 | 241-3110       |
+-------------------+---------------+---------------+----------------+
| **[District of    | [             | [**North      | [**Virginia*   |
| Columbia          | **Maryland**] | Caro          | *](../virginia |
| ](../dc/dc.htm)** | (../maryland/ | lina**](../nc | /virginia.htm) |
|                   | maryland.htm) | /n_carol.htm) |                |
| \(202\) 442-5888  |               | (919)662-4527 | \(804\)        |
|                   |               |               | 692-1776       |
+-------------------+---------------+---------------+----------------+
| **[Delaware](../d | \(410\)       | [**North      | [**Washingto   |
| e/delaware.htm)** | 767-7805      | Dakota**](    | n**](../washgt |
|                   |               | ../nd/nd.htm) | n/washgtn.htm) |
| (302)892-5800     | **[Massachu   | (701)328-4809 |                |
|                   | setts](../mas |               | (360)902-8044  |
|                   | s/mass.htm)** |               |                |
|                   |               |               |                |
|                   | (617)727-7600 |               |                |
+-------------------+---------------+---------------+----------------+
| [**               | [**M          | [             | [**Wisconsin*  |
| Georgia**](../geo | innesota**](. | **Oklahoma**] | *](../wisconsi |
| rgia/georgia.htm) | ./minnesota/m | (../oklahoma/ | /wisconsi.htm) |
|                   | innesota.htm) | oklahoma.htm) |                |
| (404)657-5562     |               |               | \(608\)        |
|                   | \(651\)       | (405)271-4471 | 266-9314       |
|                   | 296-3971      |               |                |
+-------------------+---------------+---------------+----------------+
| [**               | *             | [*            | [**West        |
| Florida**](../flo | *[Michigan](. | *Ohio**](../o | Virgi          |
| rida/florida.htm) | ./michigan/mi | hio/ohio.htm) | nia**](../west |
|                   | chigan.htm)** | (614)466-1043 | va/westva.htm) |
| (850)488-4900     |               |               |                |
|                   | (517)335-6068 |               | \(304\)        |
|                   |               |               | 232-4411       |
+-------------------+---------------+---------------+----------------+
| [**Hawaii**](../h | **[Missis     | [**Orego      | [**            |
| awaii/hawaii.htm) | sippi](../mis | n**](../orego | Wyoming**](../ |
|                   | s/miss.htm)** | n/oregon.htm) | wy/index.html) |
| (808)586-5770     |               |               |                |
|                   | \(601\)       | (503)947-1400 | (307)777-6595  |
|                   | 576-7613      |               |                |
+-------------------+---------------+---------------+----------------+
| **[Idaho](../i    | [             | [**Pennsyl    |                |
| daho/idaho.htm)** | **Missouri**] | vania**](../p |                |
|                   | (../missouri/ | enn/penn.htm) |                |
| \(208\) 334-0641  | missouri.htm) |               |                |
|                   |               | (717)787-8691 |                |
|                   | (573)751-2450 |               |                |
+-------------------+---------------+---------------+----------------+

**\***Note: Local authorities may have additional regulations such as
zoning, building or firecodes-please check with your local authorities.

**\<!\-- \<LI\>\<A
HREF=http://www.dhs.state.tx.us/tdprs/ccl/intreg.html\>Texas\</A\>
\--\>**

"The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
exists for the purpose of leading and consolidating the efforts of
individuals and groups working to achieve healthy development and
constructive education for all young children."

The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) is
the nation's largest organization of early childhood professionals and
others dedicated to improving the quality of early childhood education
programs for children birth through age eight.

**www.naeyc.org**

About NAEYC Accreditation

The National Academy of Early Childhood Programs, a division of NAEYC,
administers a national, voluntary, professionally sponsored
accreditation system for all types of preschools, kindergartens, child
care centers, and school-age child care programs.

NAEYC accredited programs have demonstrated a commitment to providing a
high quality program for young children and their families.

**The accreditation process looks at the following components of a
center's program.**

## Interactions among Staff and Children

# Curriculum

A.  Staff-Parent Relations

####### Staff Qualifications and Development

B.  Administration

## Staffing

###### Physical Environment

C.  Health and Safety

D.  Nutrition and Food Service

E.  Evaluation

6

cost quality and affordability

COST, QUALITY AND AFFORDIBILITY

"Anyone with more than a passing acquaintance with child care in the
United States has confronted what many in the profession call the
"trilemma". Briefly characterized the trilemma means that parents cannot
afford to pay what good early care and education costs, child care
providers cannot earn enough money to live on and children cannot get
the quality of care they deserve". [^1]

Child care is very labor intensive. Staff costs make up between 70% to
85% of a budget, with most caregivers still earning less than a GS 4
level salary.

In private centers, center space is typically between 5% and 25% of a
child care center's budget. The lower end reflects centers that receive
free or subsidized space. The high end reflects suburban centers where
they have built facilities. What we believed when we first opened child
care facilities in our space was that if we provided the facility (the
equivalent of as much as 25% of a center's budget) then we would see a
reduction in fees of equal measure. This belief was based on the
erroneous assumption that child care available in the marketplace was of
high quality. What we learned was that this was not true. The existing
child care market was not providing the high quality care and learning
environments we wanted in our centers.

Since the subsidy provided by free space and equipment is not enough to
provide for high quality programs and subsidized low tuition costs for
parents we have focused our space subsidy on improved quality.

In 1995 a long awaited research study was published: "The Cost Quality
and Child Outcomes in Child Care Centers" by Suzanne Helburn and Mary
Culkin from the University of Colorado at Denver, Carolle Howes from
UCLA, Sharon Kagan from Yale University and Richard Clifford from the
University of North Carolina. [^2]

Some Key findings:

-   Child care in most centers in the United States is poor to mediocre.
    The level of quality in most centers does not meet children's needs
    for health, safety, warm relationships and learning. Only one in
    seven centers was rated as developmentally appropriate.

-   Key determinants in the provision of high quality care are staff to
    child ratios, staff education and administrators' prior experience.
    The most significant determinant of quality was found to be
    staff-to-child ratios. Center quality was also found to increase as
    the percentage of staff with a high level of education increases and
    as the prior experience of the administrator increases. Centers
    providing the lowest quality of care were found to have teachers who
    were paid the lowest wage, had the least education and received the
    least specialized training.

-   States with more demanding licensing standards have fewer poor
    quality centers.

-   Highest quality was found in centers that have access to extra
    resources to improve quality. Centers that do not have to depend
    solely on parent fees are able to provide the highest quality.

-   Good quality services cost more, but not a lot more. The difference
    between mediocre quality care and good quality care was about 10%.
    The provision of excellent quality care requires a much greater
    increase in costs.

-   Quality of service is not significantly different between for profit
    and non profit sectors.

-   Parents tend to over estimate the quality of care their children are
    receiving. While parents say they value the quality of care their
    children receive, they tend to be ineffective in evaluating quality.
    Ninety percent of parents rated the quality of the services their
    children receive as very good, while the ratings of trained
    observers indicate that most of those same programs are providing
    care that ranges from inadequate to mediocre. The inability of
    parents to recognize good quality care implies that they do not
    demand it. Thus centers dependent on parent fees have little or no
    incentive to provide a higher level of quality at a higher cost.

-   Inadequate public subsidies lower the demand for good quality child
    care. Government purchasing practices often fail to contribute to
    raising the level of quality. When government agencies impose low
    payments through low funding caps and reimbursement rates when
    purchasing care for low income children, they too contribute to
    lowering the demand for good quality child care.

Knowing the cost of high quality care is too high for many families to
pay, most of our Federal centers function with a Nonprofit Board which
serves as the major player for fundraising and tuition assistance
programs.

7

additional resources

USING AVAILABLE RESOURCES

Knowing what is available and where to find help will save the start-up
committee time and effort in their work. Many excellent resources have
become available through the Internet. If you can not access the
Internet at work or at home then try your public library.

Your most important local resource for information will be the local
Child Care Resource and Referral Agency or CCR&R. This is an
organization whose mission is to know the local child care market, "do
whatever it takes to make child care work for families and communities"
thus they can facilitate in identifying providers, training
opportunities, funding streams and current issues/events in your area.
You can find your CCR&R by looking in the Yellow Pages of the phone book
under: Child Care Referral Services.

**The following WEB sites have good information:**

-   GSA, Child Care Operations Center of Expertise

    [http://www.gsa.gov/pbs/centers/child/child.htm]{.underline}

-   National Clearinghouse for the Military Child Development Program

    [http://dticaw.dtic.mil/milchild/]{.underline}

-   The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)

    [http://www.naeyc.org/default.htm]{.underline}

-   The National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care

    [http://nrc.uchsc.edu.]{.underline}

-   National Child Care Information Center

    [http://nccic.org/]{.underline}

-   National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies
    (NACCRRA)

    [http://www.naccrra.net/]{.underline}

-   Department of Labor, Women's Bureau National Resource and
    Information Center

    [http://www.dol.gov/dol/wb/]{.underline}

-   Office of Personnel Management

    [http://www.opm.gov]{.underline}

    The following organizations have a number of materials for: board
    development, and/or child care quality and early education, which
    can be purchased.

    **National Center for NonProfit Boards**

    Suite 510-G, 2000 L. Street N.W. Washington, DC 20036-4907
    (800)883-6262

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
-   **Child Welfare League of America (CWLA)**

    440 First Street N.W. Third Floor, Washington, DC 20001 (202)
    638-2952

    **Center for the Child Care Workforce**

    733 15^th^ Street, NW Suite 1037

    Washington, DC 20005-2112 (202) 737-7700 or 800 U.R. WORTHY

    [http://www.ccw.org]{.underline}

    **The National Association for the Education of Young Children
    (NAEYC)**

    1834 Connecticut Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20009 (800) 424-2460

    [http://www.naeyc.org/default.htm]{.underline}

    Publications:

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
-   **Accreditation Criteria and Procedures of the National Academy of
    Early Childhood Programs (NAEYC)**

> 1834 Connecticut Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20009 (800) 424-2460

[http://www.naeyc.org/default.htm]{.underline}

**Tax -Exempt Status for Your Organization**

IRS Publication 557 (800) 829-3676

**Handbook for Public Playground Safety**

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Washington, DC 20207

> [http://www.cpsc.gov]{.underline}

**Office of Personnel Management 5 CFR Part 950**

(Combined Federal Campaign, CFC)

> Solicitation of Federal Civilian and Uniformed Service Personnel for
> Contributions to Private Voluntary Organizations
>
> [http://www.opm.gov]{.underline}

**Child Care Design Guide, PBS-PQ 140**

**Child Care Board of Directors Resource Guide**

General Services Administration, Public Buildings Service

> [http://www.gsa.gov/pbs/centers/child/child.htm]{.underline}

**Caring for Our Children, National Health and Safety Performance
Standards:**

Guidelines for Out-of-Home Child Care Programs.

> A joint collaborative project of the American Public Health
> Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics

American Public Health Association Publication Sales Department 5037,

Washington, DC 20061-5037 (202) 789-5636

[http://nrc.uchsc.edu/national/index.html#TOP]{.underline}

# CONSULTANTS

GSA typically does not use consultants in starting our centers. For
those groups outside of GSA space, the need to enlist the aid of a
consultant is dependent on:

1.  The expertise of the members of the organizing committee

2.  Time availability

3.  Resource priorities of the sponsoring agency

If the organizing committee makes a decision to hire a consultant,
specific tasks for the consultant must be determined. Once tasks are
determined, the committee should take the following steps:

1.  Contact several consultants requesting resumes, references and
    sample final reports

2.  Contact references and discuss quality of work

3.  Meet with each consultant and discuss your specific needs;
    marketing, program issues

4.  Provide scope of work

5.  Have consultant submit a proposal in response to the discussion and
    scope of work

6.  Select the best consultant and develop the contract

When assessing the credentials of the consultant:

-   Consider experience and expertise in the specific area or areas in
    which you need assistance; curriculum, marketing, etc.

-   Assess overall knowledge of the field: knowledge of demographic and
    early childhood trends, issues, accepted practice in the field,
    promising developments, legislation, etc.

-   Assess knowledge of local regulations, licensing standards and other
    local and state requirements for center operation

-   Discuss the consultant's position on specific issues such as
    accreditation, board composition, curriculum development, and
    evaluation

-   Assess knowledge of child care operations in federal space

The consultant/committee relationship will depend to a great extent on
the specificity of the scope of work. The most common problem with
consultant-organizing committee relationships evolves from the lack of a
clearly defined scope of work. Often, committees have made assumptions
that consultants will perform tasks that are not defined. Consultants,
on the other hand, may make assumptions that certain tasks are being
performed by those on the committee or by other consultants. Assumptions
made by either party can lead to miscommunication and dissatisfaction.
Excellent committee/consultant relationships develop when expectations
are clear and communication is open. In some cases it may be necessary
to hire more than one consultant for different tasks, whereas, some
centers can become operational without a consultant.

The major task of the organizing committee is to collect as much
information as possible from existing resources and determine which
specific task areas, if any are in need of the skills of a consultant.

[^1]: Finding Funding: Sources of Resources For Child Care, by John
    Surr. Chapter 8 of the Handbook on Quality Child Care For Young
    Children, Settings, Standards, and Resources. Edited by Carol Ann
    Baglin and Michael Bender.

[^2]: Cost, Quality, and Outcomes Study, Campus Box 159, PO Box 173364,
    University of Colorado at Denver, CO 80217-3364. Executive Summary
    \$8, Public Report \$15, Technical Report \$40