Preventing and Reducing Suspension and
Expulsions in Early Care

Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Support for Arizona's Child Care Providers

​The Arizona Department of Economic Security (ADES) has made improvements to the Suspension and  Expulsion Policy, effective October 1, 2021.
 
Please review the Policy and important highlights, steps and resources HERE.

Highlights:

• Foundations 1 Training is required for all child care providers and staff.
• Access to Technical Assistance support at the first signs of need for help.
• Interaction and collaboration with AZ STEPS Resource Consultants &
  ​Mental Health Consultants to prevent suspension or expulsion. 

​The Arizona Department of Economic Security (the Department) is committed to supporting child care providers and caregivers to find the resources and support that are essential to ensuring access to quality child care for all children. Federal rule, under the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) requires States to provide information about age-appropriate social-emotional behavioral health policies for children from birth to school-age, and policies to prevent suspension, expulsion, and denial of services due to behavior of children birth to age 5 in child care and other early childhood programs.
 
Research demonstrates that suspensions and expulsions of children in child care settings are detrimental for children, families, and child care providers, and has a disproportionate impact along both gender and racial lines. Suspension and expulsion practices have been found to be ineffective in addressing the behaviors that adult caregivers may find challenging, are counterproductive to the goal of preparing children to succeed in school and life, and can influence a number of adverse outcomes across development, health and education.
 
To support positive social-emotional development, it is best to teach prosocial skills and help children feel connected and safe in their child care environment. Strategies to prevent challenging behaviors are essential skills for all caregivers. Child care providers and parents need sufficient knowledge, skills, and support to ensure children experience a high-quality early childhood program that utilizes developmentally appropriate practices to help each child grow and develop.
 
The Department requires providers to utilize all supports to prevent suspension and expulsion of children from child care settings. The Department provides assistance through education, training and support mechanisms for parents and child care providers related to any issues that may lead to the suspension and/or expulsion of children in care.
 
Are you feeling stressed or overwhelmed? Do you or your teacher need support managing challenging behaviors in the classroom? If so, complete an Arizona Suspension and Expulsion Support Request form to initiate additional resources from an AZ STEPS Resource Consultant. This form can be completed through the State’s CCR&R by either:
​

1. Calling 1-800-308-9000 or
2. Visiting azccrr.com and submit a request form available on the CCR&R homepage. 

Additional Resources

●     ADES Suspension & Expulsion Prevention Website
●     Preventing Expulsion Resource & Highlights
●     ADES Contracted Provider Resources
●    Southwest Human Development Expulsion Prevention Training and Support

 ​CCA-1270  'Expulsion Prevention Announcement'

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