Department of Human Services (DHS) Licensed
Sunflower is licensed by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. We follow all of the guidelines and requirements of DHS. Our center is visited regularly to ensure compliance. Licensure through DHS is required for all child care centers. Our representative is Becky Frost – her contact information is:
Becky Frost
Child Care Licensing Consultant
Iowa Department of Human Services
- 1407 Independence Ave Waterloo, IA 50704
- PO Box 7500 Waterloo, IA 50704
- rfrost@dhs.state.ia.us
- Phone: 319-292-2429
Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)
Sunflower takes part in the Iowa Child and Adult Care Food Program. CACFP reimburses a portion of our food cost in exchange for serving nutritious meals and snacks. Our center records and procedures are inspected regularly to ensure compliance with CACFP requirements. Participation in CACFP is voluntary.
Quality Rating System (QRS)
Sunflower is a participant in the Quality Rating System program. We are currently a Level Three Provider (there are five levels). We will apply for Level Five this fall. This program awards levels based on points earned in the categories of: Professional Development, Health and Safety, Environment, Family and Community Partnerships, and Leadership/Administration. Participation in the QRS program is voluntary.
Iowa Quality Preschool Program Standards (IQPPS)
Sunflower is verified by the State of Iowa in the Iowa Quality Preschool Program Standards initiative. Programs participating in IQPPS strive to achieve high standards in the areas of: Relationships, Curriculum, Teaching, Assessment of Child Progress, Health, Teachers, Families, Community Relationships, Physical Environment, and Leadership and Management.
Achieving the standards is considered an indicator of a quality preschool program. Our preschool staff has been attending training sessions and meetings for IQPPS for many years.
HAWC Partnerships for Children
Sunflower accepts tuition scholarships from HAWC. These scholarships are available for families with a three year old child attending preschool, who meet income guidelines. Anyone interested in applying for a HAWC scholarship should contact our office.
Department of Human Services (DHS) Child Care Assistance
Sunflower welcomes families receiving child care benefits through DHS. To apply for this program, contact your local DHS office.
Promise Jobs
Sunflower welcomes families receiving child care benefits through the Promise Jobs program. To apply for this program, contact your local DHS office.