The task force recommends that DCYF manage and own the child care cost estimation model because it is being used to inform subsidy rate setting . The tool can and should be updated by the model owners as program requirements change and as additional workforce data is available . This will ensure that the model outputs continue to reflect the true cost of child care . The living wage compensation data should be refreshed at least annually , and WCCC rates based on the data refresh schedule according to the Child Care Development Block Grant ( CCDBG ). Data updates will be reported to existing oversight committees for DCYF , including the
Early Learning Advisory Council ( ELAC ).
To provide accessibility and transparency to the child care cost estimation model , DCYF should provide links to the Center and Family Child Care Cost Estimation Excel tools on its website . The website links will allow users to download the Excel spreadsheet and input information on center or family home “ profiles ” ( such as number of classrooms ), as well as certain variables and scenarios for that provider ( such as number of children on subsidy , benefits offered , salaries and others ), along with a description of the child care cost estimation model analysis . To prevent user error with the Excel-based tool , the underlying data that drives the model should not be made visible , and only the owners of the model should be able to update this data .
2022 COST OF QUALITY CHILD CARE LEGISLATIVE REPORT 25