Introduction Message from Shante' Brown



In this recent video, OCDEL Deputy Secretary, Shante' Brown, introduces herself and shares her vision for Early Childhood Education in Pennsylvania.

April 17: Public Comment Session for Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part C Application 

April 17, 2023, from 10:00 – 11:00 am EST is the public comment session for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part C Application. During this time, the Bureau of Early Intervention Services and Family Supports will be available to receive comment regarding the application. The Public Comment session will be held via Zoom using the following participation information:

• https://paiu.zoom.us/j/95889985301
• (877) 369-0926 (US Toll Free)
• Meeting ID: 958 8998 5301

If you need an accommodation or assistance to review the proposed grant application or to submit comments, please contact [email protected] or by calling 717-346-9320. 

Anyone who would like to review the proposed grant application can find the document at Early Intervention (pa.gov) or Early Intervention Services (pa.gov) on the right side menu of the webpages. Hard copies can also be requested by emailing [email protected] or by calling 717-346-9320. Learn more.

Opportunity for a Device that Cleans Air & Sanitizes Surfaces of Viruses, Bacteria & Mold

The Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) is currently evaluating devices that can eliminate viruses, bacteria, mold and other pathogens from air and surfaces, simultaneously. The devices could be stand alone or wall mounted, utilize a standard outlet for power, and would come with two years of supplies that may be needed to run the device. If funding is approved, DOH would purchase and distribute the devices free of charge to small businesses, non-profit entities, child care and other facilities throughout the Commonwealth to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, flu, and other diseases.

If you are interested in receiving a device that could greatly reduce viruses, bacteria, mold and other pathogens in your facility, please complete this application. Learn more.

Applications Open for Pennsylvania Farm to School Grant Program

The application period for the Pennsylvania Farm to School Grant program is now open through May 19, 2023. The grants aim to improve access to healthy, local foods and increase agriculture educational opportunities for pre-kindergarten through 8th grade, and are available to any school, program or center with a pre-kindergarten through 8th-grade classroom. Applicants may apply for up to $15,000 in funding.

A webinar will be on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, from 3:00 - 4:00 pm. Register in advance for this meeting. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

April Release of PA Early Ed News

The April 2023 release of the PA Early Ed News is now available. Read the monthly e-newsletter to discover the latest developments in early childhood education and care in Pennsylvania.

Past editions are also available.

April Family Newsletters   

Share with families in your program the April editions of family-friendly newsletters. Each newsletter contains activities that align with the PA Early Learning Standards, book recommendations, and resources.

• Learning is Everywhere
• Kindergarten Here I Come
• Kindergarten Here I Am

Certified Child Care Providers: Don't delay in ordering two free Carbon Monoxide Detectors

If you're a Pennsylvania certified child care provider, you are eligible to receive two complimentary Carbon Monoxide Detectors. The Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) is making these detectors available to certified child care providers, but the ordering and placement of detectors is not a regulatory requirement. Certified child care providers should have received an email from School Health on Wednesday, March 1, 2023, with directions. See the original release for more details.