The cost estimation model includes the ability to run scenarios for multiple types of programs with different characteristics and meeting different quality standards . Two additional scenarios were created for illustrative purposes in this report , including additional program enhancements to understand the cost when a program goes beyond minimum licensing requirements . These two scenarios use the MIT Living Wage salary selection , ensuring that all members of the child care workforce earn at least a living wage .
Scenario 3 aligns with the requirements for a program to meet Early Achievers Level 3 . Scenario 4 aligns with the requirements for a program to meet Early Achievers Level 5 . As the Early Achievers standards allow programs to achieve levels based on points earned across domains there are different paths individual providers might take to reach these levels . Therefore , the study team made assumptions to determine the variables included in the model at these two levels , as detailed in Table 11 . Details of all the program enhancement selection points in the model are included in the appendix , Table B1 .
Table 11 : Program Enhancements included in additional scenarios Program Enhancement Scenario 3 – EA Level 3 Scenario 4 – EA Level 5 Family Engagement
Family conferences twice per year
$ 50 annually per child for family engagement plan
Family conferences three times per year
$ 75 annually per child for family engagement plan
Training / Professional Development 15 hours annually per staff 20 hours annually per staff Planning Release Time
Educational Materials & Curriculum
Discretionary Benefits
8 hours per classroom per week for Centers 20 hours assistant time per week for FCC
$ 50 annually per child for assessment tools ; $ 3,000 per classroom /$ 1500 per FCC for curriculum
15 days paid leave 10 days paid sick $ 6,000 contribution to health insurance 6 % contribution to retirement
24 hours per classroom per week for Centers ; 20 hours assistant time per week for FCC
$ 100 annually per child for assessment tools ; $ 3,000 per classroom /$ 1500 per FCC for curriculum
20 days paid leave 20 days paid sick $ 9,000 contribution to health insurance 6 % contribution to retirement
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