Ratios and Group Size

POLICY:

NOCAC Head Start/Early Head Start (HS/EHS) will maintain appropriate ratios during all hours of program operations.

PROCEDURES:

1. Staff-child ratios and group size maximums will be determined by the age of the majority of the children and the needs of children present.
2. NOCAC HS/EHS will ensure required staff /child ratios and maximum group size is maintained at all times in accordance with:
   1. ODJFS 5101:2-12-18 appendix A
      1. Appendix A must be posted in a noticeable area in the center
   2. Head Start Performance Standard 1302.21(b)
3. Staff shall not be counted in the ratio when engaged in duties or activities that interfere with supervision of children.
4. Volunteers in the classroom may not be counted in ratio and are not to be left alone with children.
5. The center shall not exceed the license capacity at any time.
6. During nap/rest time, two staff members must be present.

Forms and Additional Guidance: