Notice of Transfer Gold Seal Quality Care Program
In 1996, the Florida Legislature established the Gold Seal Quality Care Program to recognize child care facilities and family day care homes that have gone above the required minimum licensing standards to become accredited by recognized agencies whose standards reflect quality in the level of care and supervision provided to children. Participation in this program is voluntary and is available to all providers that meet the definition of child care, with the exception of certain license-exempt school-age programs identified in Chapter 65C-22.008(3), F.A.C.
The Gold Seal Quality Care Program is not an accreditation, but a voluntary designation with benefits to those that participate including, but not limited to:
- A positive marketing tool for prospective parents
- Tax exemptions on certain educational materials and property taxes
- Higher reimbursement for School Readiness
- Eligibility to participate in Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK)
Effective July 1, 2021, the Gold Seal Quality Care Program will be transferred to the Department of Education (DOE) from the Department of Children and Families (DCF). The DOE’s Division of Early Learning is currently working in collaboration with DCF to ensure a smooth transition.
What does this mean for providers? If you currently hold a Gold Seal designation, your status remains unchanged. The Children’s Forum will continue to accept and process new applications, manage renewals and handle any questions. Additionally, the DCF will continue inspections for providers holding a Gold Seal designation, including those who are exempt.
For additional information about the Gold Seal Quality Care Program please email goldsealproviderapps@thechildrensforum.com
