Olympia — The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) announced it will recognize previous work experience as an equivalency to meet the new licensing education requirements. On August 1, 2019, DCYF implemented new licensing regulations for licensed child care providers outlined in Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 110-300-0100. As part of ongoing discussions with existing licensed providers, the Department established alternative credentials to meet the new licensing education requirements.

On August 23, 2019, DCYF released a recommendations report produced by an Equivalencies Workgroup. The workgroup was formed to provide recommendations on the implementation of the equivalent education requirements. The report also includes a response letter from DCYF Secretary Ross Hunter and a process document outlining DCYF’s plan for experience-based competency demonstration.

Secretary Hunter said in the letter, “This equivalency process will honor the work that many providers have already completed, and meet the diverse needs of the early learning workforce.”

After reviewing the workgroup’s recommendations, DCYF determined it would pursue a model that allows providers to fulfill the licensing requirements for education through the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Short Certificate with either demonstration of competency or alternate credentials.

Providers have until August 1, 2024, to come into compliance with the WAC education requirements.

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