The New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) today announced the celebration of Early Childhood Educator and Child Care Provider Appreciation Week, from May 5-9 this year.  State landmarks will be lit in the primary colors of red, yellow and blue the evening of May 8 in recognition of the critical contributions of child care providers to the development of children throughout New York State. 

OCFS, which licenses and regulates child care programs, marked Early Childhood Educator and Child Care Provider Appreciation Week by sending thank you cards to the more than 17,000 child care providers that are state-licensed or registered.

The appreciation week celebration comes as the state is in the midst of implementing the Governor’s sweeping, four-year $7 billion plan to transform the child care system to make services more affordable, equitable and accessible. The initiatives include providing multiple grant programs and resources to assist families in finding and paying for child care and to support the child care workforce and expand its capacity. 

May 5-9 is also Teacher Appreciation Week and OCFS recognizes the significant contributions of the teachers who work in the agency’s Division of Juvenile Justice and Opportunities for Youth (DJJOY) facilities. DJJOY teachers help youth stay on track with their education while in a facility, including enabling many youth each year to complete their high school or equivalency diploma and begin college courses. OCFS is currently recruiting state-certified teachers for all nine state facilities. Interested candidates should email ocfs.sm.hr.careers@ocfs.ny.gov for more information.

OCFS Commissioner Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden said, “Teachers and child care providers are coveted for their tireless efforts, compassion, and impact on our children and their families. The distinction of being a contributor to one of very few professions that touches almost every individual is notable, and at times unrecognized. Therefore, the New York State Office of Children and Family Services thanks all educators and providers for answering the call to ensure safe, quality child care, and support for the growth and development of our children and youth.”

Nora Yates, OCFS Deputy Commissioner for the Division of Child Care Services, said, “We want to express our deepest gratitude for the truly exceptional work that child care providers do every single day. Their unwavering dedication to nurturing, caring for, and educating the children under their care is profoundly appreciated and does not go unnoticed.”

Norman Hall, OCFS Deputy Commissioner for the Division of Juvenile Justice and Opportunities for Youth, said, “During Teacher Appreciation Week – and all year – I would like to express my appreciation for the dedicated, caring teachers who work with the youth in the juvenile justice facilities. Our teachers work closely with youth to meet their individual needs and help each youth reach their highest potential.”

About the New York State Office of Children and Family Services:

The Office of Children and Family Services serves New York's public by promoting the safety, permanency and well-being of children, families and communities. The agency provides a system of family support, juvenile justice, youth development, child care and child welfare services and is responsible for programs and services involving foster care, adoption and adoption assistance, child protective services, preventive services for children and families, and protective programs for vulnerable adults.