The University of Idaho’s Idaho Center on Disabilities and Human Development has secured a $14.6 million contract to manage the IdahoSTARS child care initiative. The agreement follows an April proposal submitted by CDHD in response to a solicitation from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.
The funding supports the continuation and expansion of services designed to improve child care quality across the state. IdahoSTARS has operated for more than 20 years, assisting families in locating care and supporting the development of a skilled workforce within the sector.
Key components of the program include a revamped Professional Development System that offers placement assistance, scholarships, financial incentives, and recognition for providers. Recent updates to this system have received state and national recognition for their innovative approach and human-centered design.
Melissa Crist, associated with the program, noted the long-standing relationship between the university and local providers. “This award reflects more than two decades of partnership with Idaho’s child care community,” Crist said.
The new contract allows IdahoSTARS to increase its capacity and availability statewide. As part of the initiative, a comprehensive child care needs assessment will be conducted in partnership with Sarah Deming from the Margaret Ritchie School of Family and Consumer Sciences within the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences.
“We are honored to continue this work and excited to partner with providers, families and communities across Idaho to advance solutions that meet the state’s evolving child care needs,” Crist said.