REPORT AN ABSENT CHILD

The purpose of this absentee reporting requirement as set forward by The Rilya Wilson Act, F.S. 39.604 is to increase the safety and well-being of children ages birth to school entry who are covered under the act that are receiving funds for child care services under the BG1 category. These children are under the protection of the Department of Children and Families and child must participate in licensed early education or child care services at least five (5) days a week, unless exempted by the court and may not be withdrawn from the provider without the prior written approval of the responsible agency which is Partnership for Strong Families (PFSF).

The purpose of this absentee reporting requirement as set forward in Rule 6M-4.500 F.A.C. is to increase the safety and well-being of all children ages birth to school entry who are receiving funds for child care services under the BG1 category. Although they are not covered under the act, they are considered at-risk.

If a child is absent from the program on a day when he or she is supposed to be present, the person with whom the child resides must report the absence to the provider by the end of the business day. If the person with whom the child resides, whether the parent or caregiver, fails to timely report the absence, the absence is considered unexcused.

As set forth in the provider agreement, providers are required to report any unexcused absence or seven consecutive excused absences of enrolled children ages birth to school entry receiving funds under the BG1 category by notifying PFSF by end of the business day following the unexcused absence or seventh consecutive excused absence.

To:Pamela Mercado, Administrative Assistant (PFSF Trenton Office) pamela.mercado@pfsf.org    
Ph: (352) 463-3110 ext. 2301