Licensed Exempt Public School Program Background Checks

Under federal and state requirements, all caregivers and non-caregiver employees and residents age 10 or older in regulated child care centers require DCF-run background checks to determine their eligibility to reside or work in a child care setting.

Some child care programs are not licensed, and instead are run by a public school or Head Start program. These programs are still required to be monitored by DCF and comply with the new DCF background check requirements if:

• They are registered in YoungStar.

OR

• They are eligible to receive Wisconsin Shares subsidy.

The resources below will guide licensed exempt public school programs and Head Start programs through the process of maintaining compliance with DCF background check requirements.

Eligibility Determinations and Appeal Information

• Appeals Process for Background Check Decisions - Individuals who are found ineligible have the right to appeal DCF’s background check decision under Wisconsin Statute §48.686 (4s) if they feel the determination was incorrect.

Checklists

• Child Care Background Check Role Chart (DCF-P-5317)
• Child Care Provider Portal and Background Check Tip Sheet (DCF-P-5476)

Online Training

• Understanding Child Care Background Checks (Computer-Based Training)
• Child Care Background Checks: Using the Provider Portal (Computer-Based Training)

Rules and Regulations

• Barred Offenses - Regulated Child Care (DCF-P-5206)
• Wisconsin Statute 48.686
• DCF Admin Code Chapter 12 (Caregiver Background Check)
• Licensing Rules and Manuals

Contact Information