This letter transmits revisions to the appendices contained in rule 5101:2-17-01 of the Ohio Administrative Code, "Application and Eligibility for Step Up To Quality."

Language was added to Step Two and Step Three Early Learning Column that developmental screenings are now required annually. The requirement now reads that all children (except school age) are required to receive a developmental screening within 60 days of enrollment and annually thereafter.

The specialized training requirements currently require administrators, lead teachers and assistant teachers to receive a minimum of 10 clock hours of specialized training annually. The new rule allows for the accrual of 20 clock hours in two years beginning on the effective date of the rule, November 10, 2011.

The following requirements apply when assessing compliance with training.

• For staff at programs that are currently Star Rated:

• If the administrator, lead or assistant teacher 10 hours of training for the current year and are not involved in a Community of Learners or are not taking Mind in the Making, their training is complete for the year.
• If the administrator, lead or assistant teacher has completed 10 hours of specialized training the previous year, their training requirement is complete and will begin completing 20 hours over the next two years.
• If the administrator, lead or assistant teacher does not have 10 hours completed or they are in midyear of their assessment year based on hire date, note the number of hours completed and note the two year training period, which will include the current year and the next year. 20 hours must be complete by the end of the two year training period.

• For programs applying for their initial Star Rating:

• Administrator, lead or assistant teacher hired more than six months prior to the program's application for SUTQ will need to have 10 hours of specialized training completed. Training will then be assessed as outlined above for renewals.
• Administrator, lead or assistant teacher hired less than six months prior to the program's application for SUTQ will need to complete 20 hours of training within two years from the person's date of hire.

Clarifying language was added to the appendix Star Rating Progressive Sanctions for Serious Risk Noncompliance.

The electronic version of the Child Care Manual is located at: http://emanuals.jfs.ohio.gov. The manual contains all rules, transmittal letters and procedure letters.

Please contact the Help Desk for the Office for Children and Families at 1-866-886-3537, option 4 if you have any questions.

INSTRUCTIONS: The following chart identifies the material that needs to be removed from and inserted into the Child Care Manual (CCM).