CERTIFICATION
STANDARDS
FOR
Professional Child Care Workers
Social Service Professionals
Child Care Administrators
Georgia Association
of
Homes and Services
for
Children

"Stepping In When Others Step Out"

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page(s)

I. Introduction-------------------------------------------------------------------1

II. General Requirements---------------------------------------------------------4
A. Ethical and Legal Standards
B. Responsibilities
C. Competence
D. Confidentiality
E. Advocacy of Child's Rights
F. Interprofessional Relations
G. Research and Publication
H. Responsibility Toward Organization

III. Certified Professional Child Care Worker------------------------------------ 8
A. Definition
B. Requirements 

IV. Certified Child Care Social Service Professional------------------------------11
A. Definition
B. Requirements

V. Certified Child Care Administrator--------------------------------------------14 A. Definition
B. Requirements

VI. Certification Process----------------------------------------------------------18 A. Applications
1. Certified Professional Child Care Worker
2. Certified Child Care Social Service Professional
3. Certified Child Care Administrator

B. Reference Forms

C. Fees

  D. Interview Process

  E. Committee Decision

 VII. Appeal Process---------------------------------------------------------30

VIII. Re-Certification---------------------------------------------------------31

  A. Requirements

1. Certified Professional Child Care Worker
2. Certified Child Care Social Service Professional
3. Certified Child Care Administrator

B. Grandfather Clause

C. Re-Certification Fee

D. Application - Re-Certification

IX. Certification Committee----------------------------------------------------34

Revised, Expanded and Adopted - April 1, 1992

Developed and Adopted - October 19, 1983

 

Introduction

Challenged with the arduous task of developing a certification program, the Charter Certification Committee formed in 1983 studied several certification programs and adopted the Ohio Association of Child Care Workers Basic Plan. Due to the tenure of the Ohio Association, revision and additions were added resulting in the elimination of some of the materials not seen as applicable to Georgia at the time of implementation.

The Charter Certification Committee operates in the belief that for certification to have any real meaning, standards should be set high, thus challenging the growth in the field. At the same time, with certification being a new venture, requirements should not be too stringent so as to discourage the potential applicant.

It is the contention of the Charter Certification Committee that levels of performance will be significantly enhanced through this process. Any profession which has achieved a high level of recognition has some form of certification of its members. We further believe that self-regulation is an extremely effective system to improve the performance of an agency.

The following are advantages inherent in certification:

To the individual...

  • A. Increases ability to better understand job expectations, roles and behaviors of children.

    • B. Develops a greater sense of personal pride in one's job.

    C. Helps in securing employment.

    D. Increases remuneration to staff.

    E. Helps one move up the career ladder.

    To child care agencies...

    A. Standardizes a body of knowledge which helps assure consistency of treatment to clients.

    B. Reduces risk of untrained, poorly motivated, impulsive child care staff.

    C. Provides a registry for securing qualified staff.

    D. Provides an encouragement for people to remain in the field.

    E. Provides standards for supervision of child care staff.

    F. Encourages agencies to provide on-going training for the child care staff.

    G. Provides a closer relationship with educational institutions so that additional educational resources can be used.

    To the Georgia Association of Homes and Services for Children...

    II. General Requirements

    A. Ethical and Legal Standards:

    1. 1. A Child Care Professional believes in the dignity and worth of the individual. He/she is committed to increasing a youngster's understanding of himself/herself and others and, as a professional worker, promotes the full development of a child's potential.

      2. A Child Care Professional does not use his/her professional position or relationships, nor does he/she knowingly permit his/her own services to be used by others for purposes inconsistent with these values.

      3. A Child Care Professional, because of his/her holistic orientation to each child, works toward ensuring that the total needs of each child in his/her care are met. A Child Care Professional understands that all behavior is meaningful and purposeful, however disruptive, unusual, or unique it may seem.

      4. A Child Care Professional has a direct influence on the local community and society at large. Therefore, it is imperative that he/she strictly adheres to moral and legal standards.

      5. A Child Care Professional realizes that violations of accepted moral and legal standards damage the relationships with the children under his/her care as well as impugn his/her own name and the reputation of his/her agency and profession.

       

    B. Responsibilities:

    1. A Child Care Professional is aware of and facilitates the delivery of service geared to each child's physical, medical, emotional and vocational needs.

    2. A Child Care Professional demonstrates his/her unique skills for the art of living through action and involvement. Through a conscious use of his/her own behavior and the behavior of the children, he/she helps the child toward a healthier adjustment in life.

    3. A Child Care Professional has a responsibility to guide and structure the child's life and environment. Therefore, the Child Care Worker must maintain professional objectivity and self-discipline so that each child's needs remain his/her primary focus.

    4. A Child Care Professional recognizes his/her obligation to assist others to acquire knowledge and skill and to maintain competence and high ethical standards.

    5. A Child Care Professional has the obligation to further his/her knowledge of the profession-he/she is aware of, and sensitive to a profound social responsibility due to the fact that his/her work intimately touches the lives of others.

    6. A Child Care Professional has the responsibility to teach the child family living.

    7. A Child Care Professional has the responsibility to facilitate reconciliation of the child's family.

    C. Competence

    Because of a Child Care Professional's purpose to facilitate the delivery of services to the children, it is paramount that he/she maintains a high degree of competence in the field of child welfare

    1. A Child Care Professional is in a unique position in relation to the delivery of services to children. He/she therefore possesses the knowledge and competence in child care and should assist the child welfare systems in defining their goals and direction.

    2. A Child Care Professional, in relation to child caring agencies, should promote the establishment of a therapeutic atmosphere conducive to the healthy growth and development of children in care.

    3. A Child Care Professional discourages the practice of child care by unqualified persons and assists educational and child caring agencies by identifying child care workers competent to give dependable, professional services.

    4. A Child Care Professional should assist educational institutions in the development of child care curriculum and training programs. In addition, he/she should act as a consultant and advisor, participate in the supervision, evaluation, and modification of such programs so that high professional standards are achieved and maintained.

    5. A Child Care Professional attempts to rectify any violation of ethical standards by another child care worker, fellow professionals, or the child caring agency itself.

    D. Confidentiality - A Child Care Professional is obligated to safeguard information about the child and his/her family which has been obtained in the course of his/her professional practice. Such information may only be shared with others who are involved with the child and family on a professional basis and only when it serves the best interest of the child's welfare.

    E. Advocacy of Child's Rights - A Child Care Professional, because of his/her comprehensive responsibility for the total welfare of the children in his/her care, must work to ensure that each child's legal rights are not violated or denied, and that his/her rights due to his/her heritage are respected.

    1. A Child Care Professional recognizes each child's right to his/her concern and manifests that concern in a demonstrative way

    2. A Child Care Professional, because of his/her awareness of individual and group dynamics, is in a key position and has a corresponding obligation to attempt to harmonize conflicts arising from the group living situations.

    3. Child Care Professional respects and encourages appropriate parental involvement.

    4. A Child Care Professional is dedicated to the development of each child's independence and reintegration into his/her community within the shortest time possible, as well as to assure permanency for the child.

    5. A Child Care Professional works to ensure that co-workers, fellow professionals, and his/her agencies respect the child's and parents' rights.

    F. Interprofessional Relations - A Child Care Professional in recognition of importance of other related disciplines in the delivery of services to children, is obligated to cooperate with and support the integration and delivery of these services by other professionals.

    G. Research and Publications - A Child Care Professional has the responsibility to add to the professional body of knowledge through research and publication. Research must be done within moral, professional, and legal standards, and must guarantee the confidentiality and welfare of the subjects.

    H. Responsibility Towards Organization - A Child Care Professional realizes that institutions, agencies, and systems have been created to serve the needs of large numbers of children and parents. In attempting to meet the needs of the individuals and small groups, he/she realizes the necessity of supporting and aiding the efficient and productive functioning of such organizations.

    1. A Child Care Professional respects the rights, reputation, and philosophy of the organization for which he/she provides a service.

    2. A Child Care Professional has the responsibility to promote and support the goals and purposes of his/her professional association.

    III. CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL CHILD CARE WORKER

    A. Definition: A Professional Child Care Worker is a person who renders direct, daily residential services to children and/or youth. The child care worker, therefore, resides with the children and/or youth in a cottage and/or home on a live in and/or shift basis.

    Requirements:

        1. Child Care growth and development

        2. Learning theories
        3. Individual and group counseling
        4. Social and legal issues in child welfare
        5. Therapeutic use of leisure time activities
        6. Management and methods of organization
        7. Non-violent Crisis Intervention and/or Therapeutic Crisis Intervention.

    This knowledge may have been attained through college courses, A Basic Course for Child Care Workers, workshops, seminars, institutes, or other structured learning situations.

    B.  All candidates must maintain a standard Red Cross First Aid Card and current CPR training for infant/child and adult.

    C.  Candidates for certification must qualify in one of the following categories:

  • a. B.A.* or B.S.* degree, completion of A Basic Course for Child Care Workers**, and at least one year of successful experience in child care.

  • b. A.A. degree with a specialization in child care, completion of A Basic Course for child care workers**, and 18 months of successful experience in child care.

  • c. A high school diploma or GED, completion of A Basic Course for child care workers**, and two years of successful child care experience.

  • d. Certification from another state whose requirements are equal to GAHSC. The Certification Committee will determine which state certification programs will reciprocate on the basis of education and experience. Such candidates will be subject to the application and review process.

    •

    D.  All candidates must have at least one year of continuous employment at the same agency, in the role of Child Care Worker as defined in this manual. The experience offered for credit must have been obtained while employed at a licensed agency. A licensed agency will be considered an agency that is approved by the Georgia Department of Human Resources, which empowers and grants a license and/or certification to agencies caring for children.

    E.  Candidates must have demonstrated the ability to promote the establishment of a therapeutic milieu in child caring agencies, and an atmosphere that is conducive to healthy growth and development of children, including the following:

    THE PROFESSIONAL CHILD CARE WORKER. . .

    Has the knowledge and skills needed to facilitate the delivery of services for children's physical, medical, emotional, social, spiritual, recreational, educational, and vocational needs.

    Has the ability to be a positive role model that is conducive to the learning of acceptable social norms.

    Can assist others in acquiring knowledge and skills in child care, and to maintain competence and high ethical standards.

    Has the skills to communicate with children, families, other professionals and the community, as a member of a treatment team.

    Has a working knowledge of a variety of treatment modalities.

    Is to have an awareness of the laws that pertain to children in care, particularly those relating to child and family advocacy.

    Has skills in group dynamics and the ability to utilize these skills to promote a growth orientated environment that can help the individual child learn from group process.

    Has observation skills and the ability to assess and record those observations. He/she has the ability to assess this information and share these assessments with other professionals.

    Has the ability to provide individual and group counseling, including the ability to intervene effectively in crisis situations.

    Has the ability to maintain his/her objectivity in working with children and their families, and to separate personal feelings from professional responsibilities.

    Has the responsibility to see that the physical environment of the child is safe and secure. As such, he/she makes use of all available resources and systems to maintain a safe, secure environment.

    Has the ability to plan, organize, and participate in the child's day in such a way as to provide maximum opportunities for learning within his/her environment, including the teaching of life skills. Important in this process is the child care worker's active involvement in program implementation.

    Has the ability to commit himself/herself to the philosophy, policies, and practices of the agency with which he/she associates.

    Respects and performs in accordance with the Ethical & Legal Standards established by the GAHSC, of Child Care Professionals.

    * Acceptance of university or college programs rests with the Certification Committee of the GAHSC.

    ** Completion of A Basic Course for Child Care Workers, as designed by the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, or the University of Oklahoma. Other approved institutes are the Child Welfare Institute of Atlanta and the Georgia Academy for Children and Youth Professionals. Successful completion is understood in terms of standards established by the GAHSC Certification Committee. Copy of certificate is required from the trainer.

    IV. CERTIFIED CHILD CARE SOCIAL SERVICE PROFESSIONAL

    A. Definition: A Child Care Social Service Professional is a person who renders organized professional services in any of the following areas: Individual and family counseling, education, case management, or community services. The Child Care Social Service Professional works one-on-one and/or in group process with children, youth, and families in an office, cottage, and/or home setting.

    B. Requirements: All candidates for certification must be employed agencies who are members of the Georgia Association of Homes and Services for Children. Candidates must submit three (3) typed letters of professional recommendation. A fourth (4th) typed letter must be from an immediate supervisor. (If applicable, include typed letters from previous child caring agencies.)
      1. All candidates must adhere to Ethical and Legal standards established by the Georgia Association of Homes and Services for Children.
      2. All candidates must have the following knowledge base:
        1. Child growth and development
        2. Learning theories
        3. Individual and group counseling
        4. Social and legal issues in child welfare
        5. Therapeutic use of leisure time activities
        6. Management and methods of organization
        7. Non-violent Crisis Intervention and/orTherapeutic Crisis Intervention

    This knowledge may have been attained through college courses, Basic Course for Child Care Workers, workshops, seminars, institutes, or other structured learning situations.

    3. All candidates must maintain a Standard Red Cross First Aid Card and CPR Certification.

    4. Candidates for certification must qualify in one of the following categories:

  • a. M.S.*/M.A./M.S.W./M.Ed./M.Div.*degree, completion of a Basic Course for Child Care Workers**, and at least one year of successful experience in the child care field.

  • b. B.A, or B.S. degree, completion of a Basic Course for Child Care Workers, and at least two years of successful experience in child care. Interview may take place at the conclusion of the two (2) years experience.

  • c. Certification from another state whose requirements are equal to GAHSC. The Certification Committee will determine which state certification programs will reciprocate on the basis of education and experience. Such candidates will be subject to the application and review process.

    •

    5. All candidates must have at least one (1) year of continuous employment in the same agency, in the of Child Care Social Service Professional as defined in this manual. The experience offered for credit must have been obtained while employed at a licensed agency. A licensed agency will be considered an agency that is approved by the Georgia Department of Human Resources, which empowers and grants a license and/or certification to agencies caring for children.

    6. Candidates must have demonstrated ability to promote the establishment of a therapeutic milieu in child caring agencies, and an atmosphere that is conducive to healthy growth and development of children, including the following:

    THE CHILD CARE SOCIAL SERVICE PROFESSIONAL. . .

    Has the knowledge and skills needed to facilitate the delivery of services for children's physical, medical, emotional, social, spiritual, recreational, educational, and vocational needs.

    Has the ability to be a positive role model that is conducive to the learning of acceptable social norms.

    Can assist others in acquiring knowledge and skills in child care, and to maintain competence and high ethical standards.

    Has the skills to communicate with children, families, other professionals, and the community, as a member of a treatment team.

    Has a working knowledge of a variety of treatment modalities.

    Is to have an awareness of the laws and/or regulations that pertain to children in care, particularly those relating to child and family advocacy.

    Has skills in group dynamics and the ability to utilize these skills to promote a growth oriented environment that can help the individual child learn from group processes.

    Has the observation skills and the ability to assess and record those observations. He/she has the ability to assess this information and share these assessments with other professionals.

    Has the ability to provide individual and group counseling, including the ability to intervene effectively in crisis situations.

    Has the ability to maintain his/her objectivity in working with children, their families, and staff, and separate personal feelings from professional responsibilities.

    Has responsibility to see that the physical environment of the child is safe and secure. As such, he/she makes use of all available resources and systems to maintain a safe, secure environment.

    Has the ability to plan, organize, and participate in the child's day in such a way as to provide maximum opportunities for learning within his/her environment, including the teaching of life skills. Important in this process is the Social Service Professionals active involvement in program implementation.

    Has the ability to commit himself/herself to the philosophy, policies, and practices of the agency with which he/she associates.

    Respects and performs in accordance with the Ethical & Legal Standards established by the GAHSC of Child Care Professionals.

     

    *Acceptance of university or college programs rests with the Certification Committee of the GAHSC.

    ** Completion of A Basic Course for Child Care Workers, as designed by the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, or the University of Oklahoma. Other approved institutes are the Child Welfare Institute of Atlanta and the Georgia Academy for Children and Youth Professionals. Successful completion is understood in terms of standards established by the GAHSC Certification Committee. Copy of certification is required from the trainer.

     

    V. CERTIFIED CHILD CARE ADMINISTRATOR

    Definition:

    A Child Care Administrator is a person who is delegated the responsibilities of developing and administering the programs and/or services of a specific location, campus, and/or agency to children, youth, and families whose needs may best be served by said agency.

    B. Requirements: All Candidates for certification must be employed by agencies who are members of the Georgia Association of Homes and Services for Children. All candidates must have a minimum of one (1) year of experience as a Child Care Administrator. Candidates must submit three (3) typed letters of professional recommendation. A fourth (4th) typed letter must be from an immediate supervisor. (If applicable, include typed letters from previous child caring agencies.)

    1. All candidates must adhere to Ethical and Legal Standards established by the Georgia Association of Homes and Services for Children.

    2.. All candidates must have the following knowledge base:

    a. Child growth and development

    b. Learning theories

    c. Behavior Management

    d. Social and legal issues in child welfare

    e. Therapeutic use of leisure time activities

    f. Management and methods of organization

    g. Development and public relation skills

    h. Child Welfare Services

    i. Accounting and financial skills (Agency Specific)

    j. Employment/Personnel policies and practice

    k. Nonviolent Crisis Intervention and/or Therapeutic Crisis Intervention.

    This knowledge may have been attained through college courses, Basic Course for Child Care Workers, workshops, seminars, institutes, or other structured learning situations.

    3. All candidates must maintain a Standard Red Cross First Aid Card and CPR Certification.

    4. All candidates for certification must qualify in one of the following categories:

    a. Ph.D/Ed.D/D.Min. degree, completion of A Basic Course for Child Care Workers**, and at least 5 years of successful experience in child care. Two (2) of the five (5) years experienced must have been in a supervisory or management role.

    b. M.S./M.A./MSW/M.Ed/M.Div* degree, completion of A Basic Course for Child Care Workers***, and at least five (5) years of successful experience in the field of child care with three (3) years spent in a supervisory or managerial role.

    c. B.A.* or B.S.* degree, completion of A Basic Course for Child Care Workers**, and at least five (5) years of successful experience in Child Care.

    d. Four (4) of the five (5) years experience must have been in a supervisory or managerial role.

    e. Certification from another state whose requirements are equal to GAHSC. The certification committee will determine which state certification programs will reciprocate on the basis of education and experience. Such candidates will be subject to the application and review process.

    5. All candidates must have at least one (1) year of continuous employment in the same agency, in the role of A Child Care Administrator as defined in this manual. The experience offered for credit must have been obtained while employed at a licensed agency. A licensed agency will be considered an agency that is approved by the Georgia Department of Human Resources, which empowers and grants a license and/or certification to agencies for children.

    * Acceptance of university or college programs rests with the Certification Committee of the GAHSC.

    ** Completion of A Basic Course for Child Care Workers, as designed by the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, or the University of Oklahoma. Other approved institutes are the Child Welfare Institute of Atlanta and the Georgia Academy for Children and Youth Professionals. Successful completion is understood in terms of standards established by the GAHSC Certification Committee. Copy of certification is required from the trainer.

    6. Candidates must have demonstrated the ability to promote the establishment of a therapeutic milieu in child caring agencies, and an atmosphere that is conducive to healthy growth and development of children, including the following:

     

    THE CHILD CARE ADMINISTRATOR...

    Has the knowledge and skills needed to facilitate the delivery of services for children's physical, medical, emotional, social, spiritual, recreational, educational, and vocational needs.

    Has the ability to be a positive role model that is conducive to the learning of acceptable social norms.

    Can assist others in acquiring knowledge and skills in child care, and to maintain competence and high ethical standards.

    Has the skills to communicate with children, families, other professionals, and the community, as a member of a treatment team.

    Has a working knowledge of a variety of treatment modalities.

    Is to have an awareness of the laws and/or regulations that pertain to children in care, particularly those relating to child and family advocacy.

    Has skills in group dynamics and the ability to utilize these skills to promote a growth-oriented environment that can help the individual child learn from group processes.

    Has observation skills and the ability to assess this information and share these assessments with other professionals.

    Has the ability to maintain his/her objectivity in working with children, their families and staff, and to separate personal feelings from professional responsibilities.

    Has responsibility to see that the physical environment of the child is safe and secure. As such, he/she makes use of all available resources and systems to maintain a safe, secure environment.

    Has the ability to plan, organize, and participate in the child's day in such a way as to provide maximum opportunities for learning with his/her environment, including the teaching of life skills. Important in this process is the Child Care Administrator's active involvement in program implementation.

    Has the ability to commit himself/herself to the philosophy, policies, and practices of the agency with which he/she associates.

    Respects and performs in accordance with the Ethical & Legal Standards established by the GAHSC.

    VI. CERTIFICATION PROCESS

    Candidates desiring certification shall complete the Certification Application (Form #1992-1), Certification Checklist (Form #1992-2), and submit four (4) letters of recommendation to the chairperson of the certification committee. The chairperson shall be responsible for accepting application forms, fees, verifying employment and education, and verifying four professional references.

    A. Application Tracks are as follows:

        1. Certified Professional Child Care Worker
        2. Certified Social Service Professional
        3. Certified Child Care Administrator


    *Note Form #1992-1

     

    B. Reference Forms

    Four (4) letters of reference shall accompany each application. The four (4) letters shall comply with the following:

    #1-Submitted from immediate supervisor (Form #1992-3)

    #2-Submitted from a colleague in current place of employment and preferably another professional certified by the GAHSC*.

    #3-Submitted from a person who knows the applicant well and who is professionally qualified in some aspect of child welfare*.

    #4-Submitted from Administrative Staff member*.

     

    * #2, 3 & 4 Form #1992-4

    At its discretion, the Certification Committee can accept alternate references if those specified are unavailable for reasons beyond the control of the applicant.

    C. Fees--

    A non-refundable application fee of twenty-five ($25.00) dollars for the association's administrative expenses must be forwarded to the Committee Chairperson at the time of application. If the candidate is approved by the Certification Committee a twenty-five ($25.00) dollar certification fee must be submitted. Checks are to be made payable to the GAHSC.

    D. Interview Process--

    After the Committee receives the fees for application and all other documents, the applicant will be interviewed by the Certification Committee.

    E. Committee Decisions--

    After the completion of the interview process the committee shall make a decision to certify or not to certify the applicant for the requested area of certification. The Certification Committee Chairperson shall notify the applicant in writing within thirty (30) business days after the interview. If the decision is positive, a signed certificate will be forwarded with the notice of certification.

    FORM #1992-1

    CERTIFICATION APPLICATION

     

    Date:_______ Certification Track

    Fee: _______ ___Certified Professional Child Care Worker

    ___Certified Child Care Social Service Professional

    ___Certified Child Care Administrator

     

    All applicants must complete this form; please type or print in ink.

     

    Name: __________________________________________________________

    (Last) (First) (Middle)

     

    Address:________________________________________________________

    (No.) (Street) (Apt.#)

     

    ________________________________________________________

    (City) (State) (Zip Code)

     

    Phone:__________________________________________________________

    (Area Code)

     

    Send this application form and the following documents to the Chairperson of the Certification Committee:

     

    1. Please attach an updated resume, listing education and relevant employment experience.

    2. Attach a descriptive narrative about your experience and responsibilities as a Child Care Professional.

    3. Attach a current job description.

    4. In narrative form, state your goals and objectives, and state also how and when you plan to achieve them.

    5. Attach or send a certification of completion of the approved training courses, the dates you completed them, and a copy of college or high school diploma or GED.

    6. Attach a detailed listing of workshops, seminars, in-service training institutes, and other structured educational situations. Include verification of attendance or certificates.

    7. Attach a copy of your standard Red Cross First Aid Card, Adult CPR, and Child/Infant CPR card.

    8. Attach a check for $25.00 for Application fee (made payable to Georgia Association of Homes and Services for Children).

     

    Certification Application Page 2
    (Form #1992-1)

    References

    1. Child Care Supervisor: Name and Address

    ______________________________________________________________
    (Last) (First) (Middle)

    ______________________________________________________________
    (No.) (Street) (Apt#)

    ______________________________________________________________
    (City) (State) (Zip Code)

     2. Child Care Administrator: Name and Address

    ______________________________________________________________
    (Last) (First) (Middle)

    ______________________________________________________________
    (No.) (Street) (Apt#)

    ______________________________________________________________
    (City) (State) (Zip Code)

    3. Any other person with whom you work who is professionally qualified in some aspect of child care: Name, Title, and Address

    ______________________________________________________________
    (Last) (First) (Middle)

    ______________________________________________________________
    (Title) (No.) (Street) (Apt#)

    ______________________________________________________________
    (City) (State) (Zip Code)

     

     

    Certification Application Page 3
    (Form #1992-1)

     

    4. Any other person with whom you have worked who is professionally qualified in child care (choose a person from a previous child caring agency, when applicable):Name, Title, and Address

    ______________________________________________________________
    (Last) (First) (Middle)

    ______________________________________________________________
    (Title) (No.) (Street) (Apt#)

    ______________________________________________________________
    (City) (State) (Zip Code)

    I , _____________________________________, give my permission for the above identified references to release information to the Certification Committee of the Georgia Association of Homes and Services for Children.

    ___________ I waive my right to review letters of recommendation.

    ___________ I reserve the right to review letters of recommendation.

     

    Applicant's Signature ___________________________________ _____________

    Date

     

    Form #1992-2

     

    GEORGIA RESIDENTIAL CHILD CARE ASSOCIATION
    Certification Track

    Certified Professional Child Care Worker
    Certified ChildCare
    SocialService Professional

    CERTIFICATION CHECKLIST Certified Child Care

    Administrator

    Name of Applicant: Date:

    Applicant's Agency:

    Address: Phone:

    Direct Supervisor: Date Submitted:

    Materials Submitted by Applicant:

    1. ______ $25.00 Applicant Fee
    2. _______ $25.00 Certification Fee
    3. ______ Applicant’s Resume'
    4. ______ Descriptive narrative of applicant's experience and responsibilities in Child Care.
    5. ______ Verification of completion of course training.
    6. ______ Detailed history of relevant workshops, seminars, in-service training, and other structured learning experiences.
    7. ______ Copy of First Aid Card. CPR training is also highly recommended
    8. ______ Two letters of reference ( , )
    9. ______ Direct supervisor's recommendation.
    10. ______ Administrator's recommendation.
    11. .______ Copy of Job Description.
    12. ______ Verification of minimal years of education and experience.

    Certified Professional Child Care Worker

    ( ) B.S./B.A. (with 1 year Child Care experience)

    ( ) A.A. (with 18 months Child Care experience)

    ( ) High School (with 2 years of Child Care experience)

    Certified Child Care Social Service Professional

    ( ) M.S./M.A./M.S.W./M.Ed./M.Div. (with 1 year experience)

    ( ) B.S./B.A. (with 2 years experience)

    Certified Child Care Administrator

    ( ) Ph.D./Ed.D/D.Min/ (with 5 years experience - 2 in supervision)

    ( )M.S./M.A./M.S.W./M.Ed./M.Div. (with 5 years experience - 3 in supr.)

    ( ) B.S./B.A. (with 5 years experience - 4 in supervision)

    12.______ 1 year continuous employment in one Child Care agency.

    13.______ Ethical and Legal Standards received and read.

    14.______ Narrative explaining applicant's personal goals and objective.

    15.______ Name & address (optional) of home town newspaper

     

     

    Form #1992-3

     

    GEORGIA ASSOCIATION OF HOMES AND SERVICES FOR CHILDREN

    SUPERVISOR'S EMPLOYMENT REFERENCE

    NAME OF APPLICANT _________________________________________________________________

    (Last) (First) (Middle)

    AGENCY :

    POSITION From Until_________

    Please check the appropriate boxes according to your knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses and complete the narrative on the reverse side of this page.

    Excel. A.Avg. Avg. Fair Poor

    1. Theoretical Knowledge

    A. Child growth and development

    B. Learning theories

    C. Individual and group counseling

    D. Therapeutic use of leisure time activities

    E. Management and methods of organization

    Excel. A.Avg. Avg. Fair Poor

    2. Professional Skills

    A. The ability to present oneself as a role model

    B. The ability to assist others in acquiring the knowledge and skills of child care

    C. The ability to communicate to children

    D. The ability to communicate to other professionals

    E. The knowledge and implementation of treatment modalities

    F. Awareness of child and family advocacy laws

    G. Skills of group dynamics

    H. The ability to observe and record behavior

    I. The ability to maintain a professional objectivity in working with children

    Excel. A.Avg. Avg. Fair Poor

    J. The ability to plan or participate in a child's day in such a way as to provide maximum opportunities for learning.

    K. The ability to adjust to the agency's philosophy with which he associates himself  

    Supervisor's Employment Reference

     

    Page #2 (Form #1992-3)

    3. Please list any additional comments which you may have regarding the performance of the applicant.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    4. ATTACH OFFICIAL COPY OF JOB DESCRIPTION(S) OF APPLICANT

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    ________________ Signature Position

     

    Date___________________________________________

     

    Form #1992-4, cont’d

    Name: ____________________

    Applicant

    Date:______________________

    REFERENCE FORM

    The person named on this form has applied to the Georgia Association of Homes and Services for Children to be Certified as a Child Care Professional. Your assistance in acquainting us with the applicant will be most helpful. The applicant is requesting certification in the following category:

    Certified Professional Child Care Worker

    Certified Child Care Social Service Professional

    Certified Child Care Administrator

    Since the position of Child Care Professional entails responsibilities both in relating to children and to adults, applicants must possess a number of essential qualities. It is important that we have sufficient information to assess this applicant's capacity as adequately as possible. 

    In order to facilitate the process of completing this reference, we have listed a number of questions which will assist us in better evaluating the applicant. 

    It is not necessary to respond to all of these questions, only those pertinent to the nature of your relationship. 

    1. What is the length and nature of your relationship with theapplicant?

    2. What relevant information can you share with us which is not likely to be available from other sources? Give specific examples and demonstrate the applicants strengths, abilities,and limitations.

    3. Discuss how the applicant has handled specific problem situations. Comment upon the applicants ability to use his/her knowledge in the field.

    4. Please list any other information which you may think relevant in evaluating the performance of this applicant. 

    If you will reply via a typed response on the reverse side of this form at your earliest convenience, it will be a distinct favor to the applicant and to us.

    Please return to: Chairperson of Certification Committee

     

     

     

     

    VII. #9; THE APPEAL PROCESS

      1. Any candidate whose acceptance for certification is denied will be notified in writing by the Committee Chairperson within 30 days after the personal interview has taken place. The reason(s) for non-acceptance will be clearly stated in this notification.
      2. The candidate has 30 days after receiving written notice of denial of acceptance for certification to file a written letter of appeal.
      3. All appeals made by an individual must be in writing, signed, and forwarded to the Chairman of the Certification Committee with copies to the President of the Georgia Association of Homes & Services for Children.

    D. The Chairman of the Certification Committee in conjunction with the President of the Georgia Association of Homes & Services for Children shall respond with recommendations and a final decision within a period of no more than 30 days. The Georgia Association of Homes & Services for Children could recommend:
        1. Additional training
        2. More experience
        3. Repeating the interview
        4. Denial of acceptance
        5. Acceptance of the individual for certification
        6. Or, a combination of alternatives

    E. A final appeal may be made to the Executive Committee of the Georgia Association of Homes and Services for Children.

    VIII. RE-CERTIFICATION

    In order to establish a high standard for membership which promotes both a continuum in professional development and an increased professional

    knowledge base in the field of Residential Child Care, the Re-certification Process was established.

    A. Requirements

    All Professional Child Care Professionals requesting recertification must have met the initial certification requirements as outlined in Sections III, IV, or V. The Child Care Professional must be in good standing with his and/or her current employer. The certification period for each track is five (5) years. The following specific requirements are applicable to each level of certification:

    Certified Professional Child Care Worker

    Certified Child Care Social Service Professional

    Certified Child Care Administrator

        1. Letter of reference from immediate supervisor.
        2. If there has been a break in employment an updated resume must accompany re-certification application.
        3. Submit a current job description.
        4. Applicants experiencing 12 months leave from responsibilities during the five (5) year period shall submit a brief descriptive narrative. Appropriateness/ inappropriateness of leave shall be determined by the Certification Committee.
        5. Documentation of 24 hours of job specific, agency approved staff development per year shall accompany the re-certification application.

      B. Grandfather Clause

      All certified Child Care Professional workers certified to date will not need to seek recertification for 5 years from 4/1/92. Current Certified Child Care Professionals will need to complete certification requirements prior to 4/1/97.

      C. Re-Certification Fee

    A re-certification fee of $25.00 shall accompany each re-certification application. 

    D. Application - Re-Certification (Form #1992-5)

     

     

    Form #1992-5

    GEORGIA ASSOCIATION OF HOMES & SERVICES FOR CHILDREN

    Certification Track

    Certified Professional Child Care Worker

    Certified Child Care Social Service Professional

    Certified Child Care Administrator

    RE-CERTIFICATION APPLICATION

     

    Date:_________________

    Fee: (All applications must be completed in full and typed.)

    Name:________________________________________________________________

    (Last) (First) (Middle)

    Address:______________________________________________________________

    (No.) (Street) (Apt. No.)

    _________________________________________________________________

    (City) (State) (Zip Code) (Phone)

     

    1. Date of initial certification:

     

    2. Date of most recent re-certification:

     

    3. Since certification and/or re-certification, have you experienced a break in employment? (If so please explain)

    4. Since certification and/or recertification has your employer changed?

    (If so, please describe and attach an updated resume.)

    5. Attach a letter of reference from current supervisor.

    (Provide name/address for current supervisor) .________________________________

    ________________________________

    ________________________________

     

    Form #1992-5

     

    6. Attach a detailed listing of workshops, seminars, in-service training, institutes, and other structured educational situations. Include verification of attendance or certification. Valid First-Aid and CPR may be included in the 24 hours annually.

    Minimum requirement of 24 hours annually ( )yes ( )no

     

    7. Re-certificaiton fee of $25.00 enclosed. ( )yes ( )no

     

     

     

    (Signature)_______________________________ (Date)______________________________

     

     

     

     

    CERTIFICATION COMMITTEE

     

    The Certification Committee is composed of six (6) members, including the Chairperson appointed by the President of the GAHSC, one person at large, and one person representing each region of the Association. (North, Middle, South.) All appointments are made by the committee chair-person. Each appointment is for a two year period.