The Gold Seal Quality Care program in Florida recognizes childcare facilities exceeding minimum licensing standards. Established in 1996, this voluntary program acknowledges providers accredited by approved agencies, demonstrating high-quality care and supervision. This article outlines the program’s benefits, requirements, and frequently asked questions.
Benefits of Gold Seal Quality Care Designation
Participating in the Gold Seal program offers several advantages for childcare providers in Florida:
- Enhanced Marketing: The Gold Seal designation serves as a powerful marketing tool, attracting parents seeking high-quality care for their children. It signifies a commitment to excellence beyond basic requirements.
- Tax Exemptions: Qualified Gold Seal providers may be eligible for sales tax exemptions on specific educational materials like books, crayons, and craft supplies. Property tax exemptions may also be available through the local property appraiser’s office. Contact the Florida Department of Revenue for sales tax exemption applications.
- Increased School Readiness Reimbursement: Providers participating in the School Readiness program can receive higher reimbursement rates with Gold Seal designation. This incentivizes quality improvement and supports early learning initiatives.
- Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) Eligibility: Gold Seal accreditation may be a requirement or provide preferential consideration for participation in the Voluntary Prekindergarten program. This allows providers to offer free prekindergarten education to eligible children.
Requirements for Gold Seal Quality Care
To achieve Gold Seal designation, providers must meet specific criteria:
- Accreditation: The childcare facility must be accredited by one of the Florida Division of Early Learning’s approved Gold Seal Quality Care Program Accrediting Associations. A list of approved associations is available on the Florida Department of Education website.
- Licensing: While the Division of Early Learning doesn’t mandate licensure for Gold Seal participation, some accrediting associations may require it. Unlicensed providers agree to periodic inspections by the Department of Children and Families.
- Application: Providers must submit a Gold Seal Provider application.
Gold Seal Quality Care FAQ
What is the cost of becoming a Gold Seal provider? The Florida Division of Early Learning doesn’t charge a fee for the designation. However, accrediting associations have application and validation fees.
How long does it take to receive a Gold Seal certificate? Processing typically takes three weeks. However, unlicensed providers without recent inspection history may experience delays.
Who issues tax exemptions? The Florida Department of Revenue issues sales tax exemption certificates. Contact your local property appraiser for property tax exemptions.
Can a provider be accredited by multiple associations? Yes, but only one accreditation is reported on the Department of Children and Families’ Provider Search webpage. Multiple accreditations don’t affect reimbursement rates or tax benefits.
Contact Information
For more information about the Gold Seal Quality Care Program, contact:
Telephone: 1-888-352-4453
Email: [email protected]
The Gold Seal Quality Care program signifies a commitment to excellence in early childhood education. By meeting higher standards, providers demonstrate their dedication to providing a nurturing and enriching environment for Florida’s children. This program strengthens Florida’s childcare system and benefits children, families, and providers alike.
