The Task Force will be making decisions based on the recommendations from four work groups comprised of subject matter and technical experts. These groups meet monthly for 2-4 hours.
Program Policy
Areas of Focus:
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Program model structure
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Enrollment
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Collaboration with families
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Health and safety
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Instructional standards, curriculum and assessments
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Broader policy context
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Implementation
Workforce
Areas of Focus:
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Professional development needs and career pathways
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Support for teachers and staff
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Teacher qualifications and compensation
Infrastructure
Areas of Focus:
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Gap between current and needed classroom space
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Creative opportunities and partnerships to provide additional early learning facilities
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Early learning center facilities needs and cost
Financing Strategy & Administration
Areas of Focus:
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Cost models
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Phase-in options
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How to access and layer existing funding with potential new funding
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Needed capabilities of an administrative organization
Multnomah County has contracted with EcoNW to provide background information that will be foundational to the work of the Task Force and Work Groups. This includes analysis of population estimates, workforce data, cost models and similar preschool expansion efforts across the country.