02/26/2024 03:30 PM Senate EDUCATION
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| SB215 | |
| SJR17 | |
| Presentation: Governor's Task Force on Child Care | |
| Adjourn |
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| += | SB 215 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| *+ | SJR 17 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED | ||
| + | TELECONFERENCED | ||
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
SENATE EDUCATION STANDING COMMITTEE
February 26, 2024
3:31 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Senator Löki Tobin, Chair
Senator Jesse Bjorkman
Senator Jesse Kiehl
Senator Elvi Gray-Jackson
MEMBERS ABSENT
Senator Gary Stevens, Vice Chair
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
SENATE BILL NO. 215
"An Act relating to teacher incentive payments for national
board certification; and providing for an effective date."
- MOVED CSSB 215(EDC) OUT OF COMMITTEE
SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 17
Urging the United States Congress to extend the deadline for the
state to obligate American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary
School Emergency Relief - Homeless Children and Youth funds.
- MOVED SJR 17 OUT OF COMMITTEE
PRESENTATION: GOVERNOR'S TASK FORCE ON CHILD CARE
- HEARD
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
BILL: SB 215
SHORT TITLE: TEACHERS: BOARD CERTIFICATION INCENTIVE
SPONSOR(s): SENATOR(s) BJORKMAN
01/31/24 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
01/31/24 (S) EDC, FIN
02/14/24 (S) EDC AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
02/14/24 (S) Heard & Held
02/14/24 (S) MINUTE(EDC)
02/19/24 (S) EDC AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
02/19/24 (S) Heard & Held
02/19/24 (S) MINUTE(EDC)
02/26/24 (S) EDC AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
BILL: SJR 17
SHORT TITLE: EXTEND DEADLINE FOR ARP-HCY FUNDS
SPONSOR(s): SENATOR(s) TOBIN
02/19/24 (S) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS
02/19/24 (S) EDC
02/26/24 (S) EDC AT 3:30 PM BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
WITNESS REGISTER
MICHAEL MASON, Staff
Senator Löki Tobin
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Provided an explanation of changes for SB
215 from version S to U.
MACKENZIE POPE, Staff
Senator Löki Tobin
Alaska State Legislature
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Introduced SJR 17.
BARBARA DUFFIELD, Executive Director
SchoolHouse Connection
Washington D.C.
POSITION STATEMENT: Invited testimony for SJR17.
HEIDI HEDBERG, Commissioner
Department of Health (DOH)
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Co-presented the presentation Governor's
Task Force on Child Care.
LEAH VAN KIRK, Deputy Director
Healthcare Policy Advisor
Department of Health
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Co-presented the presentation Governor's
Task Force on Child Care.
STEPHANIE BERGLAND, CEO
Thread
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Co-presented the presentation Governor's
Task Force on Child Care.
KATIE CAPOZZI, Member
Governor's Task Force on Child Care
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Offered to answer questions.
ACTION NARRATIVE
3:31:45 PM
CHAIR LÖKI TOBIN called the Senate Education Standing Committee
meeting to order at 3:31 p.m. Present at the call to order were
Senators Kiehl, Gray-Jackson, Bjorkman, and Chair Tobin.
SB 215-TEACHERS: BOARD CERTIFICATION INCENTIVE
3:32:47 PM
CHAIR TOBIN announced the consideration of SENATE BILL NO. 215
"An Act relating to teacher incentive payments for national
board certification; and providing for an effective date."
3:32:56 PM
At ease
3:33:32 PM
CHAIR TOBIN reconvened the meeting.
3:33:58 PM
MICHAEL MASON, Staff, Senator Löki Tobin, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, Provided an explanation of changes
for SB 215 from version S to U:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Senate Bill 215 Teachers:
Board Certification Incentive
Summary of Changes: Version S to Version U
Section 1 Amends AS 14.20, which is the statute that
governs teacher certification, by adding a new
section, AS 14.20.225, to authorize teacher incentive
payments for national board certification.
Version U adds a new subsection B, which directs a
school district or the Alaska Department of Education
and Early Development to reimburse employed teachers
for costs incurred in pursuing the national board
certification. Cost shall be reimbursed on an ongoing
basis not later than 60 days after the teacher makes a
request for reimbursement.
Version U re-letters the other subsections
accordingly.
Section 2 Amends the uncodified law of the State of
Alaska to stipulate that the Act applies to a contract
or collective bargaining agreement.
Version U adds a new subsection B, which clarifies
that the applicability language extends to the cost
reimbursement payments called for in subsection B of
Section 1.
3:35:20 PM
CHAIR TOBIN solicited a motion.
3:35:38 PM
At ease.
3:36:01 PM
CHAIR TOBIN reconvened the meeting and solicited a motion.
3:36:05 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON moved to adopt the committee substitute
(CS) for SB 215, 33-LS1070\U, as the working document.
3:36:18 PM
CHAIR TOBIN found no objection and CSSB 215 was adopted as the
working document.
3:36:36 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN thanked the committee for hearing SB 215.
3:36:51 PM
At ease
3:36:57 PM
CHAIR TOBIN reconvened the meeting and solicited the will of the
committee.
3:37:00 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON moved to report CSSB 215, work order number
33-LS1070\U, from committee with individual recommendations and
attached fiscal note(s).
3:37:12 PM
CHAIR TOBIN found no objection and CSSB 215(EDC) was reported
from the Senate Education Standing Committee.
3:37:26 PM
At ease
SJR 17-EXTEND DEADLINE FOR ARP-HCY FUNDS
3:38:51 PM
CHAIR TOBIN reconvened the meeting and announced the
consideration of SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 17 Urging the
United States Congress to extend the deadline for the state to
obligate American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School
Emergency Relief - Homeless Children and Youth funds.
CHAIR TOBIN stated that on January 29, 2024, the Senate
Education Standing Committee held a meeting that focused on
youth homelessness and education. Discussion with colleagues
following the meeting led to the creation of SJR 17.
3:39:50 PM
MACKENZIE POPE, Staff, Senator Löki Tobin, Alaska State
Legislature, Juneau, Alaska, introduced SJR 17:
SJR 17 asks Alaska's federal level delegation and
their colleagues to extend the deadline to obligate
the remaining American rescue plan homeless child and
youth (ARP HCY) funds to at least September 2025. In
Alaska, we have seen a 14 percent increase in the
number of students experiencing homelessness, and of
the $2.3 million dedicated to the state of Alaska in
the ARP HCY funds, approximately 40 percent, or
$800,080, of those funds remain to be obligated, and
this additional time will give the school districts
ample time to plan and apply for those grants from the
state of Alaska. As you heard in this committee on
January 29, these funds have already been used to
support students experiencing homelessness in the
Anchorage School District, among others, by funding
English language learning support positions in each of
the largest high schools, two social service
coordinators in the classroom nested within Covenant
House, a youth shelter in Anchorage, smartphones for
students who needed them to coordinate school work,
rides, other support services, Wi Fi hotspots for
students who required them, and even car repairs for
families who needed that vehicle to get their student
to and from the school. These are just a few examples
of how the Anchorage School District used these funds
to improve outcomes for these housing insecure
students. Supporting this resolution will show
Alaska's congressional delegation that you would like
to give our schools more time to invest in these much
needed interventions.
3:41:49 PM
CHAIR TOBIN announced invited testimony for SJR 17.
3:42:18 PM
BARBARA DUFFIELD, Executive Director, SchoolHouse Connection,
Washington D.C., said she has worked in partnerships with school
districts nationwide for nearly 30 years. She provided the
following testimony on SJR 17:
[Original punctuation provided.]
• SchoolHouse Connection strongly supports Senate Joint
Resolution 17, which calls on Alaska's Congressional
delegation to advocate for a one-year extension in the
obligation date for American Rescue Plan Homeless
Children and Youth funds (ARP-HCY).
• ARP-HCY funds were the result of a bipartisan
amendment supported by both of Alaska's US Senators.
They have been incredibly impactful and can be used to
directly remove the barriers to regular school
attendance and academic success created by
homelessness - everything from transportation to
school supplies to mentoring. ARP-HCY funds are needed
now more than ever because child and youth
homelessness is worse now than it was during the
pandemic. In fact, the number of homeless students
identified by Alaskan schools is 14 percent higher
than it was in the school year before the pandemic.
• Unfortunately, administrative restrictions, delays in
federal guidance, lack of staff capacity, and staff
turnover have created barriers to using ARP-HCY funds.
In addition, our many educational agencies have
prioritized spending the much larger ARP Elementary
and Secondary School Emergency Relief funds, at the
expense of a focus on APR-HCY dollars.
• An additional year costs nothing, but allows local
school district homeless liaisons to be good stewards
of these funds. It means that rather than just
spending for the sake of spending to meet an arbitrary
deadline, schools can use the funds as needs arise in
their communities - as cars break down, as children
need shoes, as an emergency placement in a motel is
necessary for school stability.
• An additional year also gives the school districts
time to plan for sustaining their efforts, including
how to fund staff positions or community partnerships
that have been impactful.
• In sum, we urge swift passage of Senate Joint
Resolution 17 to help ensure that we are maximizing
every federal dollar so that today's homeless children
do not become tomorrow's homeless adults.
3:45:08 PM
CHAIR TOBIN concluded invited testimony and opened public
testimony on SJR 17; finding none, she closed public testimony.
3:45:55 PM
CHAIR TOBIN solicited the will of the committee.
3:45:58 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON moved to report SJR 17, work order 33-
LS1382\B, from committee with individual recommendations and
attached zero fiscal note(s).
3:46:12 PM
CHAIR TOBIN found no objection and SJR 17 was reported from the
Senate Education Standing Committee.
3:46:28 PM
At ease
^PRESENTATION: GOVERNOR'S TASK FORCE ON CHILD CARE
PRESENTATION: GOVERNOR'S TASK FORCE ON CHILD CARE
3:47:45 PM
CHAIR TOBIN reconvened the meeting and announced the
consideration of the presentation Governor's Task Force on Child
Care.
3:48:31 PM
HEIDI HEDBERG, Commissioner, Department of Health (DOH), Juneau,
Alaska, Co-presented the presentation Governor's Task Force on
Child Care.
3:48:46 PM
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG moved to slide 2 and said the presentation
address the following:
[Original punctuation provided.]
1. Relief Funds and Grants Update
2. Task Force Purpose
3. Summary of Efforts
4. Initial Report Recommendations
5. Moving Forward
3:49:23 PM
LEAH VAN KIRK, Deputy Director, Healthcare Policy Advisor,
Department of Health, Juneau, Alaska, moved to slide 3 and said
the state of Alaska received over $99 million to help child care
programs remain open and able to care for children during the
pandemic. The state received the following funds and used them
in various ways:
[Original punctuation provided.]
CARES Act 2020 $6,489,103
CRRSA 2020-2023 $18,899,904
ARPA: Stabilization 2021-2023 $45,336,010
ARPA: Supplemental 2021-2024 $28,345,643
• Lowered costs for working families
• Kept current child care providers open
• Supported the opening of more child care
businesses
• Served an increasing number of children over time
• Helped providers to cover the largest business
expense categories personnel and mortgage/rent
• Supported recruitment and retention of skilled
child care professionals
MS. VAN KIRK noted that American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
stabilization funding was distributed in three phases during the
pandemic. She turned the explanation of how the funds were
utilized over to Ms. Bergland.
3:50:48 PM
STEPHANIE BERGLAND, CEO, Thread, Anchorage, Alaska, expressed
pride in the funding allocated to child care from federal,
state, and philanthropic sources. She highlighted that the
largest support over recent years came from the Coronavirus
Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSA) and
the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) stabilization grants. There
were three rounds of child care stabilization grants, each
followed by a survey conducted with the McKinley Group to track
spending and trends in the sector. The top spending category was
personnel costs at 46 percent, followed by facility costs at 33
percent. Over 90 percent of respondents indicated that the
grants were essential to avoid closure. However, child care
businesses continue to face challenges, as they currently have
33 percent less enrollment than desired due to severe staffing
shortages. Less than half of the programs reported having
adequate staff to operate fully. Overall, the surveys indicated
that the grant resources were critical for the sector's
survival.
3:53:23 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN shared that in his community, he has heard
conversations and seen instances where child care facilities,
particularly those serving non-preschool-age children, received
COVID funds and then either transitioned into preschool
facilities or closed after receiving ARPA stabilization
payments. He asked if anything could be done to encourage
facilities that closeddespite not appearing to have staffing
issuesto reenter the child care space or to encourage others to
take their place.
3:54:55 PM
MS. VAN KIRK noted that despite receiving additional funding,
many child care facilities still struggled to maintain a
sustainable business plan and keep their doors open. She
explained that in some cases, the issue was not the amount of
funding but the availability of staff to consistently come to
work. Workforce challenges were a significant factor in
facilities closing. As the Department of Health (DOH)
administers grants, these factors are taken into consideration.
She added that if there are specific instances the department
needs to address, they are open to continuing the conversation.
3:55:54 PM
CHAIR TOBIN asked Ms. Van Kirk to elaborate on the 2024 date
related to the ARPA supplemental funds.
3:56:08 PM
MS. BERGLAND explained that ARPA supplemental funds have been
allocated in various ways and are now in the final stages of
spending. She highlighted an upcoming opportunity, the Focus
Grant, which is the last large-scale, noncompetitive grant
available to child care programs. She anticipates that $1213
million will be available. The application deadline was the
weekend [February 24-26, 2024]. She added that 92 percent of
eligible child care programs applied, and the resources will be
processed this spring, with all funds spent by June.
CHAIR TOBIN asked if the June deadline refers to expending,
allocating, or obligating the funds.
3:57:16 PM
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG stated her belief that supplemental ARPA
funds federally expire September 30, 2024.
3:57:32 PM
MS. VAN KIRK moved to slide 4 thanked the committee for the
workforce stabilization appropriations that supported the
childcare workforce this year. She provided an update on the
progress of the funding, noting that over 1,700 applications
were received from childcare providers enrolled in the Early
Education Development system. The application period ran from
November to January, and payments under the Retaining Our
Outstanding Teachers (ROOTS) Award will be processed and
distributed next month. She emphasized that the Community
Innovation Grant played a key role in increasing access to
childcare in Alaska.
3:58:45 PM
MS. BERGLAND expressed appreciation for the urban stabilization
grants and the one-time funding allocation, reaffirming the
commitment to childcare. She highlighted the Community
Innovation Grant, which provided competitive opportunities to
increase and sustain affordable, high-quality childcare across
Alaska. A total of 68 applications were received, and 17
community projects were awarded $14 million. Projects include
workforce capacity building, infrastructure development, and
expanding access to affordable childcare. Examples include a
worker-owned cooperative childcare in Anchorage, the first
licensed childcare centers in Kotzebue and Hoonah, and a
resource grant for an early educator apprenticeship program in
Juneau. All projects have two years to utilize the funds and
submitted sustainability plans when required.
4:006 PM
MS. BERGLAND moved to slide 5 and provided context regarding the
childcare landscape in Alaska, noting that much of the current
work is guided by two primary plans: the Alaska Child Care
Development Fund plan and the goals established in Early
Childhood Alaska: A Strategic Direction for 2020-2025. Both
plans focus on access, affordability, and quality of care.
MS. BERGLAND referenced a recent McKinley Group study, which
showed that access to childcare is becoming more difficult, with
51 percent of working families in Alaska facing challenges due
to lack of childcare. The state has seen 20 percent of licensed
childcare programs close in the past four years, leaving a 60
percent gap in available licensed spaces compared to the demand.
Of the 388 remaining licensed programs, many cannot operate at
full capacity due to workforce shortages, contributing to
broader workforce issues across industries as businesses
struggle with recruitment and retention.
4:02:57 PM
MS. BERGLAND said affordability is another concern, as families
are now paying an average of 15 percent of their income on
childcare, with some paying even more. For families with two or
more children, childcare often exceeds housing costs. Prices
continue to rise, especially with pandemic relief funds
expiring, causing many programs to increase costs, leading to a
third consecutive year where childcare prices have outpaced
inflation.
MS. BERGLAND emphasized the importance of quality in childcare,
with only 33 percent of children entering kindergarten in Alaska
considered prepared. Focusing on high-quality care is essential
for early development, especially before age five, and
contributes to a strong start in school. The speaker highlighted
that only 10 percent of early educators in Alaska have more than
a high school diploma, stressing the need for workforce
development in the sector. The Governor's Child Care Taskforce
is exploring policy recommendations to address these ongoing
trends.
4:04:58 PM
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG acknowledged that the childcare landscape
has shifted significantly before, during, and after the
pandemic. She emphasized the need to transition to the work of
the task force, which recognizes the importance of a robust
childcare system in supporting healthy families and students.
This system not only benefits students but also helps parents
re-enter the workforce. She noted that the business sector has
made it clear that the scarcity of childcare remains a top
concern, negatively affecting their ability to retain staff.
Absenteeism and staff turnover, linked to the lack of childcare,
are key reasons for the workforce shortages impacting
businesses.
4:06:27 PM
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG explained that the business sector
recognizes the importance of addressing issues related to
preparing children for school and stabilizing the childcare
sector. This understanding contributed to the governor signing
an administrative order in April 2023, aimed at developing a
plan for affordable, high-quality childcare.
4:07:13 PM
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG moved to slide 5 and said the task force
identified childcare needs from birth to age 13, focusing on key
areas that impact the sector. The task force includes 13 voting
members, representing a broad range of stakeholders, including
three state agencies (Health, Labor, and Education), local
government, nonprofits, parents, the business sector, organized
labor, Department of Defense, and tribal entities. In addition
to subject matter experts, Senator Tobin and Representative
Coulombe, who serve as ex officio members, have actively
participated in the meetings. The structure and focus areas of
the task force allow for an in-depth analysis of childcare needs
across the state:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Governor's Task Force on Child Care
Administrative Order 346
Purpose
• Develop a plan to improve availability and
affordability of quality child care
• Consult existing resources
• Develop policy recommendations
Focus Areas
• Background Checks
• Workforce
• Licensing
• Access
• Quality
• Subsidy
Structure
• Eleven voting members
• Representatives from across the state
4:08:38 PM
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG moved to slide 6 and discussed the levers
available to the task force to improve systems, focusing on
opportunities for public-private partnerships, addressing
workforce and affordability in childcare. She highlighted the
development of solutions to incentivize employer-sponsored
childcare, as well as policy recommendations targeting
recruitment, retention, compensation, and benefits. She also
noted the need to review and update regulations, acknowledging
that the Department of Health has already begun addressing
identified regulatory issues. She emphasized the importance of
innovative, out-of-the-box solutions, referencing presentations
from national organizations and other states as sources of ideas
applicable to Alaska. Lastly, she mentioned that Alaska
currently has fewer than ten employer-sponsored childcare
facilities, including some in the banking sector, hospitals, and
one at the University of Alaska Fairbanks:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Improving Systems
Public-Private Partnerships
Employer - Sponsored
Policy
Regulations
Other Innovative Solutions
4:10:39 PM
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG moved to slide 7 and said the task force
contracted new studies across four areas to better inform the
task force's recommendations. She explained that the task force
contracted with the Stellar Group to conduct an updated
workforce study, which is now publicly available. The study
involved interviews with childcare workers and employers across
Alaska to identify key findings and recommendations.
Additionally, she highlighted a contract with Agnew Beck to
conduct intentional focus groups11 with families, 10 with
providers, and 5 with employersengaging 130 participants. These
focus groups aimed to identify barriers and solutions, aligning
with the task force's discussions, and she noted strong synergy
between both efforts. She also discussed the market rate survey,
which the Child Care Program Office sends out every two years to
providers, gathering data on rates charged by age group and
waitlists. She acknowledged that while this survey informs
subsidy rates, it does not provide a complete picture, prompting
a shift to the cost-of-care study. The cost-of-care study,
conducted by McKinley, examines start-up and operational costs,
including geographical differences between rural and urban
areas. The study is expected to be completed by the end of July.
4:14:01 PM
SENATOR BJORKMAN raised concerns about the challenges businesses
face in providing childcare, citing a facility in his community
built for daycare that has not served any children in ten years.
He noted that many former employees of closed facilities are now
offering home-based childcare at much lower costs than licensed
centers. He wondered how the department factors informal
childcare arrangements into the cost of care. He mentioned that
facilities can require parents to pay for days of service that
they do not need. He asked if there is any interest in
regulating this practice.
4:16:18 PM
MS. VAN KIRK responded that a regulatory approach may not
address the concerns, as childcare providers manage their own
businesses and set their own policies. She emphasized the
importance of encouraging innovation within the childcare
sector, citing the Anchorage pilot program, which operates as a
cooperative model. She mentioned that the cost-of-care study
will consider these factors, particularly in relation to the
childcare subsidy. She noted that over the next several months,
the governor's task force will focus on subsidies and the
Childcare Assistance Program, factoring in federal requirements
related to attendance versus enrollment. She appreciated the
questions and acknowledged that multiple approaches could be
considered moving forward.
4:18:01 PM
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG added that the feedback from the public
suggests a need for additional license types for childcare. She
noted that the cost-of-care study will incorporate various
models and a new methodology, which will evaluate expenses
beyond just what providers charge. This includes considering the
license type and the full spectrum of costs involved. She
expressed confidence that the study will help address some of
the concerns raised.
4:18:49 PM
CHAIR TOBIN asked when the information from the cost-of-care
study would be available.
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG stated that the cost-of-care study will be
completed by the end of July 2024. She noted that the task force
will meet after the study's completion to evaluate the findings
and make recommendations.
4:19:18 PM
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG moved slide 8 and provided a summary of
Task Force meetings:
[Original punctuation provided.]
14 meetings
33 recommendations
2 public comment hearings
1 public comment period
Final report submitted to Governor in December 2023
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG shared that the administrative order was
signed in April, and after an initial organizational meeting,
the task force began meeting twice a month with deep engagement.
She noted that most meetings were virtual, with a couple in-
person, and attendance ranged between 32 - 80 participants. She
emphasized the diverse participation, referring to the "five
P's": providers, childcare workers, parents, policymakers, and
the press. This broad involvement helped ensure the public was
informed and able to contribute to the process. She reflected on
key insights and learning moments throughout the task force's
work. She reaffirmed her commitment to maintaining a transparent
process as chair, mentioning two public comment hearings and
substantial feedback on the draft report. The final report was
submitted to the governor in December, following public input.
4:21:40 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON thanked the task force members and
expressed her appreciation for the establishment of the task
force. She then inquired about the contractors hired for the
study and asked whether any funding was attached to the task
force.
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG confirmed that federal relief funds were
used to pay for the four contracts related to the cost-of-care
study, market rate surveys, workforce analysis, and focus
groups.
4:22:22 PM
CHAIR TOBIN asked where the public can access the recorded
meetings and the final report.
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG replied that the public can Google "Task
Force on Child Care Alaska," which will direct them to the
Denali Daniels website. There, individuals can register to
participate and access all meetings, resources, and reports that
have been discussed, including the final report.
CHAIR TOBIN asked whether it is anticipated that the information
will eventually be moved to a state website for archiving.
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG replied yes, eventually.
4:23:05 PM
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG moved to slide 9 and discussed public
comment input. She stated the amount of public interest was
impressive. Seventy-six individuals provided written comments,
most of whom commented on all 33 topics. Twenty-six individuals
provided either in person or virtual testimony. The statewide
wide themes from public comments were:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Support of the Recommendations
Workforce Support
Wage Increases
Recognition/Professionalization
Child Care Access and Affordability
Licensing and Requirements
Education and Training
Background Checks
Funding and Sustainability
Collaboration and Municipal Involvement
Zoning Challenges
4:23:50 PM
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG moved to slide 10 and reiterated that the
task force has been focused on learning, listening, and
discussing key topics, including background checks, licensing,
and workforce. As discussions progressed, it became clear that
two additional areasemployers and tribal authorityneeded to be
included. The 33 recommendations from the task force are
concentrated on these five areas. She stated that Ms. Van Kirk
and Ms. Bergland would provide an overview of these areas and
the corresponding recommendations.
4:24:35 PM
MS. VAN KIRK moved to slide 11 and explained that she would
highlight significant recommendations made by the task force on
the five focus areas. She noted that the governor's task force
report is available online and proceeded to discuss in more
detail the following recommendations:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Recommendations: Background Checks
Vision: Increase timely, efficient, and affordable
background checks.
• Implement Livescan digital fingerprinting at
State office buildings
• Expand access to mobile Livescan digital
fingerprinting to increase accessibility for
rural communities without a state office
• Establish a secure online portal for submitting
background check applications to eliminate
whitelisting requirements
4:27:57 PM
SENATOR KIEHL said he was glad to see progress on fingerprinting
and asked whether the live scan system would be available to in-
home direct care workers and others who have been waiting for
improvements to the background check process since before the
department split.
MS. VAN KIRK responded that the focus is on developing a pilot
process for live scan fingerprinting that can be replicated
across different sectors. She acknowledged that many sectors in
the state still rely on the manual fingerprinting process and
expressed hope that the pilot program will lead to broader
adoption and improvements in those areas as well.
4:28:44 PM
SENATOR KIEHL asked if there were any benchmarks or goals to
determine when the pilot would be deemed successful and whether
it could be scaled up.
MS. VAN KIRK stated that the department plans to purchase the
live scan machines and have them available within the next six
to eight weeks. She added that within six months, there should
be sufficient data to evaluate the program's effectiveness and
determine how well it is working.
4:29:21 PM
MS. VAN KIRK on slide 11 discussed the establishment of a secure
online portal, noting that additional security requirements were
implemented following a cyberattack a few years ago. The
department collaborated with the Office of Information
Technology (OIT) to create this secure portal. In January, the
department was able to remove the whitelisting requirement,
simplifying the process for all childcare providers needing to
submit applications through the portal.
4:30:13 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON asked what whitelisting is.
MS. VAN KIRK explained that due to the cyberattack, it was
necessary to ensure that when providers uploaded documents, they
were coming from a secure environment. This requirement led to
the need for a static IP address, meaning providers had to
contact their internet service providers and pay for that
service to meet the state's whitelisting requirements for
approval.
4:30:58 PM
MS. VAN KIRK moved to slide 12 and discussed task force
recommendations for licensing:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Recommendations: Licensing
Vision: Training for child care licensing staff to
support consistent technical assistance and
accountability to meet child care regulations.
• Navigation services
• Online application process
• Web-based forms
• Remove the Child Care Associate requirement
4:34:46 PM
MS. BERGLAND moved to slide 13 and discussed task force
recommendations on workforce:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Recommendations: Workforce
Vision: Elevate a professionally paid and supported
workforce ensuring access to benefits, professional
development, and pathways to advancement.
• Occupational endorsement for Administrator
qualifications
• Build apprenticeship programs to support the
educational pipeline for early childhood education
• Update child care assistance regulations to remove
diploma or GED requirement for relative and in-home
care
4:38:10 PM
MS. BERGLAND on slide 13:
• Update regulations to allow Administrators to
delegate authority to appropriate staff in their
absence
• Provide Infant Early Childhood Mental Health services
to build early educator skills to address challenging
behaviors
4:39:46 PM
SENATOR KIEHL asked for clarification regarding the removal of
the requirement for a diploma or GED, specifically how it
affects eligibility for the program.
4:40:06 PM
MS. VAN KIRK explained that there are two different types of
regulations: childcare assistance regulations and licensing
regulations. Licensing regulations do not require childcare
staff to have a GED or diploma, although there are requirements
for administrators. The childcare assistance program focuses on
whether childcare centers are eligible to receive subsidies for
families who qualify. The regulation in question removes the
requirement that a childcare provider must have a diploma or GED
to care for a child eligible for a subsidy and receive payment
for providing that care.
SENATOR KIEHL asked for the minimum level of required education
or training.
4:41:19 PM
MS. VAN KIRK clarified that the regulation applies specifically
to approved relative providers, such as grandparents or other
relatives of the child. For these providers, there would not be
any formal educational requirements to care for the child.
SENATOR KIEHL acknowledged that the explanation was helpful but
raised concerns about the balance between removing educational
requirements and maintaining quality in childcare. He referenced
Ms. Bergland's earlier statement that the number one indicator
of childcare quality is the training of teachers. While
apprenticeship programs and other skill-building approaches are
valuable, he expressed unease about removing requirements such
as having someone with a Child Development Associate (CDA)
certification or even a GED or diploma. He asked how the focus
on quality is maintained when these requirements are removed.
4:42:41 PM
MS. BERGLAND explained that the current regulations, requiring
proof of a high school diploma or GED, create an unintended
barrier to accessing the childcare assistance subsidy,
particularly for certain populations like immigrants or refugees
who may have received formal education but lack the necessary
documentation. She emphasized that there are other requirements
in place for administrators, with multiple pathways to meet
those qualifications, and noted that all teachers, including
administrators, must complete annual professional development
training to maintain and enhance the quality of care.
4:43:43 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON asked for further explanation on providing
infant and early childhood mental health services.
MS. VAN KIRK explained that there is a growing national
recognition of the increased need for infant and early childhood
mental health services, particularly as more children in early
childhood and school settings struggle with behavioral health
issues. This has contributed to higher rates of burnout among
providers. Early childhood mental health is an established
field, offering support to both providers and children,
particularly those who qualify for subsidies. Over the next six
months, the task force will focus on improving access and
affordability for children with behavioral health challenges or
special needs and ensuring the workforce is prepared to care for
them.
4:45:16 PM
MS. BERGLAND moved to slide 14 and continued discussion of task
force recommendations for the workforce:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Recommendations: Workforce
Benefits
• Create a sustainable state-funded wage subsidy
for licensed child care professionals to support
a living wage in Alaska
• Develop an option for child care professionals to
become part of a health insurance network
• Establish a subsidy for licensed child care
employees
Recognition
• Recognize child care professionals as essential
workers in Alaska
• Recognize child care as a profession and adopt
best practice language when referring to the
child care sector
4:46:02 PM
SENATOR KIEHL asked what it means to recognize people as
essential workers.
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG explained that recognizing childcare
workers as essential means that during events or disasters that
overwhelm the community, parents rely on these workers to take
care of their children. In practical terms, it acknowledges the
critical role of the childcare sector. She emphasized the need
to respect the profession by using appropriate terminology,
suggesting that instead of calling it "daycare," it should be
referred to as "child development" or "early childhood
development." This shift in language is something she advocates
for in presentations, regulations, and communication moving
forward.
4:47:09 PM
CHAIR TOBIN referred to an earlier slide showing how some of the
regulatory reforms align with federal program requirements, such
as Head Start and Early Head Start. She asked if the removal of
education requirements, similar to Senator Kiehl's question,
intersects with those federal standards or how they fit
together.
4:47:35 PM
MS. VAN KIRK said she appreciates the committee's focus on
educational requirements for childcare providers, emphasizing
the importance of maintaining quality. She clarified that while
the regulations related to childcare assistance may remove
certain barriers, they do not eliminate other critical
qualifying components. For example, program administrators are
still required to have 12 credits in specified areas, complete
additional and annual training, and pass background checks. None
of these administrative requirements have been changed or
diminished.
MS. VAN KIRK also noted that federal guidelines influence how
state regulations can be updated or changed, impacting the
state's ability to use federal funding.
4:48:52 PM
CHAIR TOBIN said [like] Head Start.
MS. VAN KIRK said yes. She explained that Alaska has a "Learn &
Grow" system focused on building quality within early childhood
education programs, including Head Start and childcare
providers. She noted that while federal requirements related to
quality may differ, Alaska, through its partnership with Thread
and the quality improvement system, aims to create consistency
across all programs by considering those various requirements
and aligning them within the state's framework.
4:49:40 PM
Late CHAIR TOBIN expressed curiosity about how some of the state
programs align with federal requirements for initiatives like
Early Head Start and Parents as Teachers.
4:49:54 PM
MS. VAN KIRK said the department would follow up later.
4:49:58 PM
MS. BERGLAND moved to slide 15 and discussed task force
recommendations on employer-based programs:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Recommendations: Employer-Based Programs
• Vision: Increase collaboration between the
business sector and state government to design a
child care system that meets the needs of
Alaska's current and potential workforce.
• Consider tax credits/incentives to encourage the
private sector to transform existing spaces into
child care facilities
• Establish a position or contractor to assist
employers and/or businesses with technical
assistance to provide on-site or near-site child
care
• Consider capital funding options for remodeling
spaces to meet child care health and safety
requirements for employer programs
4:51:26 PM
COMMISSIONER HEDBERG highlighted SB 237, the Alaska
Affordability Act, which includes provisions related to
childcare, allowing corporations to receive up to a 50 percent
tax credit for investing in childcare. She noted that this
aligns with the task force's first recommendation, encouraging
corporate investment in childcare.
4:51:52 PM
MS. VAN KIRK moved to slide 16 and discussed some final
recommendations that are really important in Alaska. On the task
force there is representation from tribal child care facilities,
which has helped navigate the difference between some tribal and
state programs:
[Original punctuation provided.]
Recommendations: Tribal Authority
Vision: Recognize Tribal authority and create pathways
for tribal providers and parents to access state
subsidies.
Tribal Coordination
• Accept tribally approved health and safety
standards; authorization to license facilities;
creating pathways for tribal providers and
parents to access state and federal subsidies.
• Work with federal partners to recognize tribally
approved background check processes.
4:53:46 PM
MS. VAN KIRK moved to slide 18 and discussed subsidy, access and
affordability, and quality. She expressed excitement about the
next six months, during which the task force will focus on
understanding and improving the childcare subsidy system. She
explained that Alaska receives approximately $22 million
annually from the Administration for Children and Families, with
70 percent of that required to support the state's childcare
subsidy programs, totaling around $17 million per year. In the
February meeting, the task force began examining the levers that
impact subsidies: income eligibility requirements, state rates
set by the market rate survey, and the family copay percentage.
4:54:56 PM
MS. VAN KIRK mentioned that the task force will also explore
innovative models from other states, such as Michigan's Tri-
Share model, to improve the system. She noted that only 7
percent of the childcare system utilizes subsidies, highlighting
the need to innovate for the many families who are not accessing
this support. Additionally, the task force will focus on
increasing access for children with special needs and supporting
behavioral health services for children.
4:56:04 PM
KATIE CAPOZZI, Member, Governor's Task Force on Child Care,
Anchorage, Alaska, said the three testifiers gave a fantastic
presentation. She offered to answer committee member's
questions.
CHAIR TOBIN thanked the presenters and said she looked forward
to hearing more about the task force's final report and
recommendations.
4:57:19 PM
There being no further business to come before the committee,
Chair Tobin adjourned the Senate Education Standing Committee
meeting at 3:30 p.m.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| SB 215 Version U 02.26.2024.pdf |
SEDC 2/26/2024 3:30:00 PM |
SB 215 |
| SB 215 Summary of Changes Version S to Version U 02.26.2024.pdf |
SEDC 2/26/2024 3:30:00 PM SFIN 4/16/2024 9:00:00 AM |
SB 215 |
| SJR 17 Version B 02.26.2024.pdf |
SEDC 2/26/2024 3:30:00 PM |
SJR 17 |
| SJR 17 Sponsor Statement 2.26.2024.pdf |
SEDC 2/26/2024 3:30:00 PM |
SJR 17 |
| SJR 17 Fiscal Note LEG-SESS 02.23.2024.pdf |
SEDC 2/26/2024 3:30:00 PM |
SJR 17 |
| SJR 17 Research NCHE 2023 Student Homelessness in America 02.26.2024.pdf |
SEDC 2/26/2024 3:30:00 PM |
SJR 17 |
| SJR 17 Testimony - Kelly King 02.27.2024.pdf |
SEDC 2/26/2024 3:30:00 PM |
SJR 17 |
| Task Force on Child Care Updated Presentation 02.26.2024.pdf |
SEDC 2/26/2024 3:30:00 PM |
Childcare |
| Task Force on Child Care Report 1 02.26.2024.pdf |
SEDC 2/26/2024 3:30:00 PM |
Childcare |