Beyond Compliance: A More Capable Child Care System for Tribal Programs
By Casey Bader
With support for the Federal Child Care Data Tracker ending, tribes need a reliable solution for producing the ACF-700 report. Handel IT has implemented custom child care systems for several tribes and, from the experience, developed a new standard module. RiteTrack’s Child Care Module isn’t just a replacement for the Data Tracker – it expands and improves on the original functionality while continuing the deliver all required reporting. This gives tribes new opportunities to enhance their child care programs, including integrating the module with partner programs such as Indian Child Welfare and TANF.
More Than Just the ACF-700 Report
The first question we are always asked is whether the Child Care module generates the ACF-00. The answer is yes – RiteTrack produces the ACF-700 and more. In addition to calculating the totlas for the Administrative Data Questions, the system offers detailed statistical breakouts with direct links to the individuals and services included in the reporting period. Breakout tables such as Number of Children by Age, Reason for Services, and Payment Type provide deeper insights using your raw data, along with straightforward access to the underlying records.
RiteTrack provides statistical breakouts with direct links to the individuals and services included in the ACF-700.
Special Needs and Services
Another need we heard repeatedly from Child Care programs was the ability to track and report on special services offered by providers. These services might include Indigenous-specific supports, special education, after-school transportation, or availability during non-traditional hours. RiteTrack makes it easy to identify providers who offer these services so staff can refer families to the right options. Person-level alerts can also be added to document the special services needed to support each child.
Special Services by Child Care Provider allows searching for specific provider types and services offered.
Providers, Licenses, and Certifications
Maintaining current provider documentation was another challenge raised in our discussions. To address this, RiteTrack includes full tracking for licenses, certifications, and re-certifications, along with their expiration dates. These dates automatically trigger reports that notify staff when documentation is approaching expiration, helping ensure nothing falls through the cracks. Additional notifications can be configured to remind both staff and providers of upcoming deadlines.
This example user dashboard shows active providers and children receiving care.
Building a Wraparound Program
As with all RiteTrack modules, the Child Care module can be integrated with other standard or custom modules to streamline the management of services provided to families. Programs such as Indian Child Welfare, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and Employment and Training can coordinate more effectively with Child Care, enabling secure and appropriate information sharing so staff have the complete picture of supports being delivered.
Take Your Programs to the Next Level
Interest in the Child Care module has been strong, and we would welcome the opportunity to learn about your program’s needs and discuss how RiteTrack can meet them – going far beyond what the Data Tracker offered. Click below to request a conversation or demonstration.
