Chapter 5180:2-19 | School Based School-Age Program

Rule 5180:2-19-01 | Definitions.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

As used in this chapter:

(A) "Administrator" means the person responsible for the daily operation of the program. The administrator may be the director of the school child program.

(B) "Adult" means a person who is at least eighteen years of age.

(C) "Child with a disability" has the same meaning as in section 3323.01 of the Revised Code.

(D) "Community school" has the same meaning as in section 3301.52 of the Revised Code.

(E) "Continuity of care" means the process developed for ensuring that children know which staff member(s) are responsible for their whereabouts and well-being at all times while they are attending the school child program.

(F) "Corrective action plan" describes the action taken by the program to correct a licensing non-compliance. This plan does not confirm the program is in compliance with the rule, or negate the non-compliance finding. Corrective action plans are submitted in the Ohio statewide licensing system and are to be completed in their entirety to be approved.

(G) "Current first aid certification" means documentation of training received from an approved health organization.

(H) "Developmentally appropriate" means curriculum, instruction, environments, and age-appropriate activities that reflect the cognitive, social, and emotional level of the learner and includes the unique abilities or characteristics of a learner or group of learners including learners with disabilities, unique ethnic and/or cultural characteristics, and unique life experiences.

(I) "Eligible nonpublic school" has the same meaning as in section 3301.52 of the Revised Code.

(J) "Employee" means an individual who receives compensation for duties performed in a licensed school child program; or who is assigned specific working hours or duties in a licensed school child program. This includes contracted employees or self-employed individuals who are compensated by the program and who have unsupervised access to children in the program.

(K) "Governing body" means a board of education for a school district, a governing board of an educational service center, a county board of developmental disabilities, or the governing authority over a community school or eligible nonpublic school.

(L) "Licensed health care professional" means either a physician as defined in section 4731.052 of the Revised Code or a registered nurse licensed under Chapter 4723. of the Revised Code.

(M) "License capacity" means the maximum number of school children who may be permitted to attend a school child program at one time at one site.

(N) "Medicine" means any substance which is used to prevent or treat a wound, injury, infection, infirmity, or disease. The term applies to prescription and nonprescription substances taken internally or applied externally.

(O) "Mildly ill child" means a child who does not feel well enough to participate in activities, but who does not have symptoms that may be indicative of a communicable disease.

(P) "Moderate risk non-compliance" means a licensure rule violation that has the potential to lead to an increased risk of harm to, or death of a child, and is observable and/or based on facts.

(Q) "Ohio professional registry" (OPR) is an online professional development tool for Ohio's child care professionals.

(R) "Ohio statewide licensing system" is the Ohio department of children and youth (DCY) system for program licensing and step up to quality functions and activities.

(S) "Parent, guardian or custodian" means the person or government agency that is or will be responsible for a child.

(T) "Primary space" means usable space that is always available to and used exclusively by the school child program or a portion of space used concurrently with other groups dedicated to the school child program during its hours of operation. Such space may be used by others at other times of the day.

(U) "Program site" means the building licensed for the operation of the school child program. A school building as defined in section 3301.55 of the Revised Code is considered a program site for the purposes of this chapter.

(V) "School child" means a person who is attending kindergarten or who is at least five years of age as of the first date of attendance in the school child program, is less than fifteen years of age, and is not enrolled in high school.

(W) "School child program" means the same as in section 3301.52 of the Revised Code. For the purposes of this chapter, "program" means the same as "school child program."

(X) "School child program staff member" means an employee of the school child program who is responsible for the care and supervision of children. Only a school child program staff member may be part of the staff-to-child ratio. A substitute may replace a school child program staff member on a temporary basis. The director, administrator or owner may be a school child program staff member when not involved in other duties.

(Y) "School district" means any city, county, exempted village, local, joint vocational school, community school, or educational service center.

(Z) "Secondary space" means space that cannot be classified as primary space, because the usable space ordinarily assigned to the school child program may be scheduled for use by others on an occasional basis. Secondary space provides additional space options for program operations and will be available during the program's operation.

(AA) "Serious risk non-compliance" means a licensure rule violation that has the potential to lead to a great risk of harm to, or death of, a child and is observable and/or based on facts.

(BB) "Special needs child care" refers to care provided for a child under the age of eighteen who:

(1) Has one or more chronic (ongoing) health conditions; or

(2) Requires additional support due to severe developmental differences in one or more of the following areas:

(a) Social development.

(b) Emotional development.

(c) Cognitive development.

(d) Communication skills.

(e) Perception skills.

(f) Perception and sensory processing.

(g) Motor skills.

(h) Physical health or mobility.

(i) Behavioral development.

(3) These needs require regular and ongoing adaptations and/or daily specialized support to support their child's development. As a result, the level of care needed is significantly increased and leads to ongoing additional expenses for the child care program.

(CC) "Superintendent" means the chief administrative officer or chief executive officer of the school district, county board of developmental disabilities, community school, or eligible nonpublic school.

(DD) "Supervision" means the process of overseeing the care of children in a school child program. Supervision also means the duty to keep children safe from harm.

(EE) "Visitor" means an individual who is not considered an employee but may be temporarily present in the program. A visitor does not have assigned duties, is not used in ratio, or left alone with children.

(FF) "Voluntary temporary closure" means the program requests to stop serving children, but not close the license. A voluntary temporary closure shall not exceed twelve months.

(GG) "Volunteer" means an individual who is not considered an employee. A volunteer may have duties but is not compensated, not counted in ratio and is not left alone with children.

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:44 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3301.53, 3301.58
Amplifies: 3301.52, 3301.53, 3301.531, 3301.54, 3301.541, 3301.55, 3301.56, 3301.57, 3301.58, 3301.59
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031

Rule 5180:2-19-03 | Indoor and outdoor health and safety.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What are the requirements for building and fire inspections?

(1) School buildings will not have to undergo additional building code inspections or to have structural modifications for use as school child program sites.

(2) Programs not conducted in school buildings will not be licensed until it has been ascertained that such use conforms to local codes and ordinances, and until the premises are inspected by:

(a) A state fire marshal or local fire safety inspector. The premises will have been inspected by the fire marshal or fire safety inspector holding local jurisdiction and any changes obligated by the fire marshal or fire safety inspector have been completed before children may occupy the premises. A floor plan of the area used by the program will be submitted electronically to the Ohio department of children and youth (DCY); and

(b) A building official. Local building authorities having jurisdiction over the premises will be satisfied with building code compliance and documentation kept on file. Any obligated changes will be made before the program may occupy the space.

(3) The governing body is responsible for ensuring that the listed inspections are carried out and any needed modifications to program sites are made. Documents verifying these inspections and any changes or reconstruction carried out pursuant to the official's obligations will be available for review at the program. A person who has reasonable cause to believe that a potential hazard exists may request a re-inspection of the program site.

(B) What are the indoor space requirements for a licensed school child program?

(1) Program sites will provide a minimum of thirty-five square feet of indoor primary space per child. When space is used with other groups, only the actual portion of space available for the school child program will be classified as primary space that may be used in the calculation of the square footage for primary space.

(2) Additional space used for short periods of time does not have to meet the thirty-five square feet per child obligation.

(3) If additional children are to be added at a program site and the result is that more children will be in attendance at the site than the license capacity permits, a new site plan will be submitted to and approved by DCY prior to opening the program for that increased number of children.

(4) Space for storage of equipment and children's personal belongings will be available.

(C) What are the outdoor play space requirements for a licensed school child program?

(1) Safe outdoor play space totaling not less than sixty square feet for each child using the space at any one time, will be regularly available and scheduled for use, unless the program operates for less than three hours per day.

(2) The surface of the outdoor play space will be well drained and offer protection from falls.

(3) The play space will be free of hazards such as, but not limited to, broken glass, potholes, garbage, flammable materials and other debris.

(4) The play space will be well defined to protect children from traffic or animals.

(5) The program will provide equipment that promotes large muscle development in adequate amounts for the group size. Equipment is to be safe, age appropriate and not include openings that may cause body part entrapment.

(6) The program will provide sun protection for all children.

(7) Swimming pools, wading pools, and other bodies of water eighteen inches or more in depth will be fenced or otherwise made inaccessible to the children when adult supervision is not available.

(D) What are the requirements for licensed school child programs who use play spaces that are regulated by another state or local agency?

(1) The distance and means to access off-site play spaces will be safe and developmentally appropriate.

(2) On-site or off-site play spaces that are regulated by another state or local agency are exempt from the DCY requirements for outdoor spaces and play equipment. Licensed school child programs are to protect children from harm while using these exempted play spaces, including but not limited to, protection from traffic and animals; preventing child access to bodies of water; and providing sun protection for all children.

(E) What are the specific procedures the licensed school child program needs to follow for standard precautions?

(1) Safe handling and storage of hazardous materials and the appropriate disposal of bio-contaminants:

(a) Blood spills are to be treated cautiously and decontaminated promptly. Disposable non-latex gloves are to be worn during contact with blood or bodily fluids which contain blood, such as vomit or feces in which blood can be seen.

(b) Surfaces contaminated with blood or bodily fluids containing blood are to first be cleaned with hot, soapy water, and then sanitized with an appropriate bleach solution which is prepared on a daily basis, according to product guidelines, or other acceptable disinfectant solution which is environmental protection agency (EPA) rated as hospital disinfectant with a label claim for mycobactericidal activity.

(c) Disposal of materials that contain blood are to be kept in a sealable, leakproof plastic bag or double bagging in plastic bags that are securely tied.

(d) Non-disposable items, such as clothing that contain blood, are to be placed in a sealable, leakproof plastic bag or double bagged in plastic bags that are securely tied and sent home with the child.

(e) Sharp items used for procedures on children with special care needs, such as lancets for finger sticks or syringes, are to be kept in a disposable container called a "sharps container." This is a container made out of durable, rigid material which safely stores the lancets or needles until the parent can take them home for disposal. Sharps containers are to be stored out of the reach of children.

(2) Children may use cleaning supplies with adult supervision.

(3) Handwashing is to occur in a handwashing sink with running water, and which conforms to the Ohio plumbing standards of division 4101:3 of the Administrative Code.

(F) What are the additional safe and sanitary environment/equipment requirements for a licensed school child program?

(1) Furniture, equipment, and supplies will be appropriate to the age and size of the children who use them.

(2) The program site will be cleaned daily. The environment, furniture, materials and equipment are to be kept in a sanitary condition at all times.

(3) Areas, equipment, and furniture used by children will be free from hazards.

(4) Floor surfaces will be maintained to not cause a tripping hazard.

(5) The program will provide a smoke free environment.

(6) Children will have access to bathroom facilities and sinks at all times.

(7) General-use trampolines, ball pits, and inflatable play equipment intended for climbing and bouncing, including but not limited to slides and bounce houses, is not permitted for use in the program. Individual-use, personal-sized therapy trampolines no larger than forty-eight inches in diameter may be used by children under direct supervision.

(8) A working phone and a backup form of communication, including but not limited to email, text messaging services, or an additional phone will be within, or immediately accessible to the program's primary space and accessible to school child program staff members at all times.

(a) School child program staff members will be available to parents by phone during hours of program operation.

(b) Phone numbers for emergency services that may be locally appropriate will be posted in a visible location readily accessible to the appropriate school child program staff member in the area.

(G) What are the first aid supply requirements for a licensed school child program?

Adequate and sufficient first aid supplies will be readily available at all times the program is in operation, including on field trips. This includes, at a minimum, band-aids, gauze squares, adhesive tape, an instant ice pack, disposable non-latex gloves, and a working digital thermometer. First aid kits will be reviewed and replaced regularly by a school child program staff member.

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:45 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3301.53, 3301.58
Amplifies: 3301.52, 3301.53, 3301.531, 3301.54, 3301.541, 3301.55, 3301.56, 3301.57, 3301.58, 3301.59
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031

Rule 5180:2-19-04 | Curriculum.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What are the curriculum requirements for a licensed school child program?

(1) A school child program will have a written philosophy, goals, objectives, and daily plans that provide a balance to the academic emphasis of the regular school day.

(2) A school child curriculum will address, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:

(a) Health and safety skills.

(b) Recreational skills.

(c) Social and emotional learning.

(3) A written school child curriculum will be adapted to address individual needs, personal interests and developmental levels. Personal choice and self-initiated learning experiences will be encouraged and supported in all curriculum planning. The program may offer, but not necessarily be limited to, the following list of recommended activities and projects:

(a) Creative construction.

(b) Group and individual reading of literature.

(c) Building and miniature imaginative play.

(d) Fine arts.

(e) Individual quiet space.

(f) Puzzles and table games.

(g) Science, math, and exploration.

(h) Dramatic play.

(i) Health, safety and care of self.

(j) Active outdoor and indoor activities.

(k) Clubs, scouting, group sports, lessons, and/or special activities.

(l) Field trips.

(4) A school child program will provide activities, equipment, and materials that are developmentally and age appropriate and reflect heterogeneous, racial, gender, and cultural attributes.

(5) The school child curriculum will be adapted to the needs of children with disabilities.

(6) Developmentally appropriate equipment, materials, and furnishings will be available at each program site for the number and ages of children enrolled. Equipment and materials will support the program goals, objectives, and activities identified in the daily plans.

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:44 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3301.53, 3301.58
Amplifies: 3301.52, 3301.53, 3301.531, 3301.54, 3301.541, 3301.55, 3301.56, 3301.57, 3301.58, 3301.59
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031

Rule 5180:2-19-05 | Child information.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Will records of immunizations be required for children in a school child program licensed by the Ohio department of children and youth (DCY)?

Records of immunizations will not be mandatory of children in a school child program who are enrolled in an accredited public, eligible nonpublic school, community school, or county board of developmental disabilities school.

(B) What are the child record requirements for a licensed school child program?

Individual child records will be maintained and include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:

(1) A DCY 01234 "Child Enrollment and Health Information for Child Care" form or an enrollment form containing the following information:

(a) The child's name, date of birth, date of admission, parent's name, home address, business address and phone number where the parent can be reached during the time the child attends the program (if applicable) and/or procedures for reaching the parents, and the name of the school the child attends.

(b) Phone numbers of at least one authorized person to take the child from the program in the event of an emergency.

(c) Parental consent for transportation to an emergency care facility.

(d) Date/signatures of the parent and program.

(2) A health care plan form if the child has a chronic health condition containing the following information:

(a) The child's name, date of birth, parent's name, home address and phone number where the parent can be reached during the time the child attends the program.

(b) Parental consent for first aid and instructions for caring for the child with a chronic condition or diagnosis.

(c) Any special concerns such as dietary restrictions and allergies.

(d) Name and phone number of the child's physician, dentist, or other health care providers.

(e) Signatures of staff trained to perform medical procedures to manage the child's chronic health condition.

(f) Date/signatures of the parent, program and health care professional.

(3) A medication administration form if the child is administered medication at the school child program containing the following information:

(a) The child's name, date of birth, weight to determine medication dosage, parent's name, home address and phone number where the parent can be reached during the time the child attends the program.

(b) Parental consent and instructions to administer medication to the child.

(c) Name, dosage and time of administration of the medication.

(d) A log of the child's name, name of the medication, time and dosage administered and the date/signature of the person administering medication.

(e) Name and phone number of the child's physician, dentist, or other health care providers.

(f) Date/signatures of the parent, program and health care professional.

(4) A health care plan and medication administration form may be combined or the DCY 01236 "Health Care Plan Documentation & Permission to Administer Medication" may be used.

(5) Dated written or electronic attendance records.

(C) When is a DCY 01299 "Incident/Injury Report for Child Care" completed in a licensed school child program?

(1) A DCY 01299 or a form that is equivalent in content is to be completed and a copy is to be kept on file for at least one year for review by DCY if the following incidents occur:

(a) A child becomes ill or receives an injury which requires first aid treatment.

(b) A child is transported in accordance with rule 5180:2-19-10 of the Administrative Code to a source of emergency assistance.

(c) A child receives a bump or blow to the head.

(d) An unusual or unexpected incident occurs which jeopardizes the safety of a child or school child program staff member, such as a child leaving the program unattended, a vehicle accident with or without injuries or exposure of children to a threatening person or situation.

(2) A copy of the DCY 01299 or an electronic equivalent will be provided to the child's parent or the person picking up the child on the day of the incident.

(D) What information will be included in a transportation plan for a child in a licensed school child program?

(1) A transportation plan will include parental designations of any authorized persons to take the child from the program.

(2) If a school district, county board of developmental disabilities, community school, or eligible nonpublic school policy permits, a transportation plan will include mutual agreement and consent between the program coordinator and the child's parents allowing a school child to leave the school child program for specific activities. The agreement will specify, but not be limited to, the following:

(a) Child's destination.

(b) Estimated time or arrival and departure, and the time period for which the agreement is valid.

(E) What are the requirements for parental permission for swimming and water activities?

(1) The school child program will have written permission from the parent or guardian of a child before the child will be permitted to swim or otherwise participate in water play activities in bodies of water two or more feet in depth.

(2) The written permission will be signed and dated, and will include the following:

(a) The child's name.

(b) Location of the swimming/water play site.

(c) A statement indicating whether or not the child is a swimmer.

(d) That the parent or guardian grants permission.

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:48 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3301.53, 3301.58
Amplifies: 3301.52, 3301.53, 3301.531, 3301.54, 3301.541, 3301.55, 3301.56, 3301.57, 3301.58, 3301.59
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031

Rule 5180:2-19-06 | Snack and meal requirements.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What are the requirements for meals and snacks in a licensed school child program?

The program is to:

(1) Be in compliance with section 3717.41 of the Revised Code for food service operation, if applicable.

(2) Develop policies and procedures for providing meals to children who are in attendance at the school child program through the hours of eleven a.m. and one-thirty p.m., inclusively.

(3) Offer food to ensure that no child goes more than four hours without at least a meal.

(4) Offer food from the basic five food groups: protein, grains, fruits, vegetables and dairy.

(a) Breakfast consists of food from three of the five basic food groups.

(b) Meals consist of food from five of the basic food groups.

(c) Snacks consist of food from two of the five basic food groups.

(5) Offer food that is not a choking hazard, and that is developmentally appropriate in size, amount and texture.

(6) Offer milk based on parental preference.

(7) Follow the policies and obligations of the school district, county board of developmental disabilities, community school or eligible nonpublic school.

(8) Provide meals and snacks according to the posted current weekly menu, and spaced no more than four hours apart.

(a) The menus are to include all meals and snacks being served by the program with any substitutions noted at the time of the change.

(b) Menus will be posted in a conspicuous place where they can be reviewed by parents.

(9) Ensure both school child program staff members and children wash hands before food service.

(10) Provide for a child's special dietary needs as prescribed by the child's source of medical care or obligate the parent to provide the prescribed diet items that are not part of the program's menu plan.

(11) Keep in the child's record a list of the allergies suffered by the child in attendance of the program. All school child program staff members, including those in food service, will be informed of these allergies.

(12) Provide safe drinking water throughout hours of program. If drinking fountains are used, there is to be sufficient water pressure so that the child's mouth does not come in contact with the water dispensing mechanism. Individual water bottles are to be labeled with the child's name.

(13) Provide for the safe storage of all food.

(14) Not have screens (television, computer, etc.) on during meals and snacks.

(B) What are the requirements for parent provided meals and snacks?

Programs that allow or obligate parents to provide food for meals or snacks are to:

(1) Have provisions for safe storage of parent provided food.

(2) Ensure that no child goes more than four hours without a meal if a child does not bring food for the day.

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:45 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3301.53, 3301.58
Amplifies: 3301.52, 3301.53, 3301.531, 3301.54, 3301.541, 3301.55, 3301.56, 3301.57, 3301.58, 3301.59
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031

Rule 5180:2-19-07 | Management of communicable disease.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) How will a school child program care for sick children?

(1) A school child program staff member will observe each child daily as the child enters the group to recognize the common signs of communicable disease or other illness.

(2) Decisions regarding exclusion of the child from the program either immediately or at some later time in the day will be determined by the administrator or school child program staff member and the parent(s).

(3) A child with any of the following signs or symptoms of illness will be isolated immediately:

(a) Diarrhea (three or more loose stool in a twenty-four-hour period) if reported.

(b) Severe coughing, causing the child to become red or blue in the face or to make a whooping sound.

(c) Difficult or rapid breathing.

(d) Yellowish skin or eyes.

(e) Redness of the eye or eyelid, thick and purulent (pus) eye discharge, matted eyelashes, burning, itching or eye pain.

(f) Temperature of at least one hundred degrees Fahrenheit taken by the auxiliary method when in combination with other symptoms.

(g) Untreated infected skin patches, unusual spots or rashes.

(h) Unusually dark urine and/or grey or white stool if reported.

(i) Stiff neck with an elevated temperature.

(j) Evidence of untreated lice, scabies, or other parasitic infestation.

(k) Sore throat or difficulty in swallowing.

(l) Vomiting more than one time or when accompanied by any other sign or symptom of illness.

(B) What are the procedures a school child program will follow when isolating a sick child?

While isolated, the child will be:

(1) Isolated in a room or portion of a room not being used in the school child program.

(2) Within sight or hearing of a staff member.

(3) Made comfortable in a warm, safe environment. All linens and blankets used by an ill child will be laundered before being used by another child. Cots, mats, beds or other equipment will be disinfected before being used by another child.

(4) Observed carefully for worsening condition.

(C) What are the reporting requirements for communicable diseases?

The school child program will:

(1) Notify, when aware of diagnoses, all parents when children enrolled are exposed to a communicable disease during program time.

(2) Post the DCY 08087 "Communicable Disease Chart" in a location readily available to parents, school child program staff members and employees. The chart is to be displayed in the size available in the Ohio department of job and family services (ODJFS) forms central in order for individuals to easily read, identify and respond to communicable diseases.

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:45 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3301.53, 3301.58
Amplifies: 3301.52, 3301.53, 3301.531, 3301.54, 3301.541, 3301.55, 3301.56, 3301.57, 3301.58, 3301.59
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031

Rule 5180:2-19-08 | Child guidance.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What are the procedures for child guidance in a licensed school child program?

(1) The program will have a written child guidance policy that:

(a) Describes the program's philosophy and restrictions as listed in paragraph (B) of this rule and the specific methods of child guidance used at the program.

(b) Will be on file at the program for review.

(c) Is constructive and developmentally appropriate for all children enrolled in the program.

(d) Will apply to all persons on the premises and is to comply with this rule, section 3319.46 of the Revised Code and rule 3301-35-15 of the Administrative Code.

(2) All school child program staff members will receive a copy of the program's child guidance policy for review upon employment.

(3) The school child program will provide professional development training to school child program staff members regarding the written child guidance policy and procedures before the school child program begins and/or before the staff members begin working with children.

(4) The parent of a child enrolled in a program will receive the program's written child guidance policy.

(5) A school child program staff member in charge of a child or a group of children will be responsible for their child guidance.

(6) Child guidance will be constructive and educational in nature, and may include such measures as praise for appropriate behavior, diversion, talking with the child, and separation from problem situations.

(7) Exclusion from the school child program for disciplinary reasons will be addressed in the policy and procedures.

(8) The program will neither abuse nor neglect children and will protect children from abuse and neglect while in attendance at the school child program.

(B) What are the prohibited child guidance techniques in a licensed school child program?

In addition to the restrictions outlined in rule 3301-35-15 of the Administrative Code, the following apply:

(1) There will be no cruel, harsh, or corporal punishment, or any unusual punishments such as, but not limited to, punching, pinching, shaking, spanking, or biting.

(2) Discipline will not be delegated to a child.

(3) No physical restraints will be used to confine a child by any means other than a school child program staff member holding a child for a short period of time, so that the child may regain control. Prone restraint of a child is prohibited. Prone restraint is defined as all items or measures used to limit or control the movement or normal functioning of any portion, or all, of a child's body while the child is in a face-down position.

(4) No child will be placed alone in a locked room or otherwise confined in an enclosed area.

(5) No child will be subjected to profane language, threats, derogatory remarks about himself/herself or his/her family, or any other verbal abuse.

(6) Discipline will not be imposed on a child for failure to eat or sleep, or for toileting accidents.

(7) Techniques of child guidance will not be intended to humiliate, shame, or frighten a child.

(8) Discipline will not include the withholding of food, rest, or toilet use.

(9) Separation will be brief in duration, and age and developmentally appropriate. The child will be within sight and hearing of a school child program staff member, and in a safe, lighted, and well-ventilated space.

(C) What are the suspension, expulsion, and removal requirements for a licensed school child program?

(1) Behavior management, child guidance and discipline policies and procedures will ensure the safety, physical and emotional well-being of all individuals on the premises.

(2) The program is to communicate and consult with the parent prior to implementing a specific behavior management plan. This plan will be consistent with this rule and in writing and signed by the parent.

(3) If suspension, expulsion, and removal policies exist, they are to be written in accordance with section 3313.66 of the Revised Code.

(a) When a child is expelled from the program for a behavioral reason, the expulsion is to be reported as a serious incident in the Ohio statewide licensing system by the next business day.

(b) The program may print the completed serious incident report in the Ohio statewide licensing system and give to the parent to meet the parent notification requirements for incidents.

(D) What are the child abuse and/or neglect reporting requirements?

A school child program staff member who has reasonable cause to suspect that a child has been abused or neglected is to immediately make a report in accordance with section 2151.421 of the Revised Code and then submit a serious incident report to the Ohio department of children and youth (DCY) in the Ohio statewide licensing system within twenty-four hours.

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:45 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3301.53, 3301.58
Amplifies: 3301.52, 3301.53, 3301.531, 3301.54, 3301.541, 3301.55, 3301.56, 3301.57, 3301.58, 3301.59
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031

Rule 5180:2-19-09 | Policies and procedures, recordkeeping, and administration.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) What policies are to be developed and maintained for a school child program?

The program will develop and maintain written program policies and procedures that are consistent with the policies and procedures of the school district board of education. Such written policies and procedures will include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:

(1) Program curriculum as stated in rule 5180:2-19-04 of the Administrative Code.

(2) Ages of children served.

(3) Hours and days of operation.

(4) Admission and registration.

(5) Fees and payment, if applicable.

(6) Enrollment of children with disabilities, including consultation with special education staff to make any needed program modifications.

(7) Maintenance of staff/child ratios and supervision plans.

(8) Child guidance as stated in rule 5180:2-19-08 of the Administrative Code and exclusion of children for disciplinary reasons, if applicable.

(9) Staff/parent communication and parent involvement, including information for parents about the program and its services, discussing their children's needs and progress, and procedures for addressing parent complaints.

(10) Procedures for preparing, handling, serving, and washing food, utensils, and equipment for meals and snacks, including obligations for meals, if offered, as stated in rule 5180:2-19-06 of the Administrative Code.

(11) Provision of a meal and/or snack to children who come to the program without a meal and/or snack to ensure that all children are provided with a meal and/or snack.

(12) Handling and/or exclusion of ill children and reporting communicable diseases, which includes, but is not limited to, the following:

(a) Training staff members on signs and symptoms, handwashing, and disinfecting equipment and materials.

(b) Isolating and excluding an ill child.

(c) Caring for a mildly ill child.

(13) Recording and reporting of incidents.

(14) Release of children to authorized individuals and continuity of care.

(a) A school child program will provide a written plan for communication between the program and the kindergarten through grade twelve system and identify public and nonprofit entities with whom they may cooperate for programming.

(b) With mutual agreement of the parent(s) or guardian and the school child program, school children may be permitted to leave the school child program for specific activities.

(15) Recording and reporting of absences, no shows, and missing persons.

(16) Transportation arrangements to and from the program.

(17) Transportation for field trips and obtaining parent permission including provision for children who do not attend the field trip.

(18) Child data privacy provisions.

(19) Reporting child abuse or suspicions of child abuse or neglect as stated in section 2151.421 of the Revised Code. The school child program staff members will neither abuse nor neglect children and will protect children from abuse or neglect while in the program's care.

(20) Parent participation regarding program design and evaluation, including how input will be considered by administrators.

(21) Nondiscrimination in providing services to children and their families on the basis of race, religion, cultural heritage, political beliefs, disability, or marital status.

(B) What are the supervision requirements for a licensed school child program?

Supervision means all of the following:

(1) Being aware of the developmental and behavioral needs as well as parental preferences of the child(ren) in care.

(2) Maintaining situational awareness of the children in care for at all times. Maintaining situational awareness may include the use of analog or digital technology (including mirrors) to supplement direct observation of the children in care but may not be the sole means of observation.

(3) Being aware of the activity a child is engaged in and being near enough to protect children from harm, meet their basic needs and respond to emergency circumstances.

(4) Being near enough to observe, respond and anticipate reasonably foreseeable hazards and threats.

(5) Being able to summon another adult for assistance in an emergency.

(C) What is included in a written supervision plan for a licensed school child program?

Written supervision plans may include the following options:

(1) Children may run errands or use the restroom without direct adult supervision in the area designated for the program's use by the site plan if the children are within hearing of a staff member, a staff member knows the whereabouts of the children at all times, or a staff member checks on the children every five minutes.

(2) Children in kindergarten grade and higher in groups of two or more may be without direct adult supervision in the area designated for the program's use by the site plan if the children are within sight or hearing of a staff member in adjoining or adjacent space, a staff member knows the whereabouts of the children at all times, and a staff member checks on the children every five minutes until they return to the group.

(3) When a group of children are outdoors, a staff member will be able to summon another adult without leaving the group alone or unsupervised. A school child in fourth grade or older may leave the group to summon an adult.

(D) What are the medicine administration requirements for a school child program?

(1) Medicine will be administered in accordance with program policies and procedures and only with written permission of a parent. Only employees who are licensed health care professionals or who have completed drug administration training may administer medicine pursuant to section 3313.713 of the Revised Code.

(2) All prescription medicine will be current within the last twelve months, kept in its original container, and have a legible label containing the child's name and written instructions for use from a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, or dentist. Medicine will be stored in a designated locked storage place, except that drugs that necessitate refrigeration may be kept in a refrigerator not accessible to children. An inhaler or nonprescription medicine may be available to a school child with a special health condition with parental permission in accordance with the program's policy.

(3) Except in cases of emergency, parents will give the first dose of any newly prescribed medicine so that they may personally observe the child's reaction.

(E) What are the emergency preparedness and response plan (EPRP) standards for a licensed school child program?

(1) The EPRP is to include procedures that will be used to prepare for and respond to the following types of emergency or disaster situations:

(a) A written security plan that ensures access to the program is limited to parents and guardians of children in care and authorized persons.

(b) Medical or dental emergencies, including emergency transportation.

(c) Weather emergencies and natural disasters which include severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, flash flooding, major snowfall, blizzards, ice storms, or earthquakes.

(d) Emergency outdoor or indoor lockdown due to threats of violence which includes active shooter, bioterrorism, or terrorism.

(e) Emergency evacuation and relocation procedures due to hazardous materials and spills, gas leaks or bomb threats; or due to threats of violence which include active shooter, bioterrorism, or terrorism.

(f) Outbreaks, epidemics, or other infectious disease emergencies.

(g) Loss of power, water, or heat.

(h) Other threatening situations that may pose a health or safety hazard to children in the program.

(2) The EPRP is to include details for:

(a) Emergency numbers for medical, dental, and transport-related emergencies, in addition to 9-1-1.

(b) Shelter in place or evacuation, how the school child program will care for and account for the children until they can be reunited with the parent.

(c) Assisting children with special needs and/or health conditions.

(d) A designated safe site where staff and children can safely relocate and remain when evacuated.

(e) Reunification with parents.

(i) Emergency contact information for the parents and the school child program.

(ii) Procedures for notifying and communicating with parents regarding the location of the children if evacuated.

(iii) Procedures for communicating with parents during loss of communications, no phone or internet service available.

(f) The location of supplies and procedures for gathering necessary supplies for staff and children, if required to shelter in place.

(g) What to do if a disaster occurs during the transport of children or when on a field trip or routine trip.

(3) The school child program will complete the following to ensure training on the EPRP.

(a) Make the EPRP available to all school child program staff members and employees.

(b) Train school child program staff members or reassign staff duties as appropriate. Ensures that all school child program staff members have initial training and annual reviews of the EPRP.

(c) Update the EPRP on a yearly basis.

(d) Contact local emergency management officials, as needed.

(e) Children will have drill practice at least once per quarter during the school year and at least once during a summer program to demonstrate appropriate procedures and appropriate behavior in accordance with the program's EPRP during an emergency.

(4) If the school child program has adopted a plan in accordance with section 5502.262 of the Revised Code and filed it with the Ohio school safety center, that plan will meet the emergency preparedness and response requirements of this paragraph. The plan is considered a security record and will be exempt from public disclosure. The Ohio department of children and youth (DCY) will accept documentation from the administrator that the plan is on file with the Ohio school safety center.

(F) What are the policies and procedures and recordkeeping requirements for a school child program?

(1) Program policies and procedures will be given to all parents at the start of the school year or at the time of enrollment; to staff prior to working with the children, and to other persons upon request.

(2) Personnel policies and procedures will include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:

(a) Staff members will be recruited and employed, without discrimination on the basis of age, color, national origin, race, sex or disability.

(b) The terms of employment will include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following: job descriptions, staff qualifications, wages, benefits, probation, grievance procedures, performance evaluation, resignation, and termination.

(c) Procedures for checking references of potential employees.

(d) Mandatory orientation and professional development training.

(e) Use of volunteers.

(f) Staff data privacy provisions.

(3) Personnel policies will be available to staff and other persons upon request.

(4) Individual staff records will be maintained.

(5) Each school child program will submit reports to the Ohio department of education and workforce (DEW), DCY or the school district as requested.

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:45 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3301.53, 3301.58
Amplifies: 3301.52, 3301.53, 3301.531, 3301.54, 3301.541, 3301.55, 3301.56, 3301.57, 3301.58, 3301.59
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031

Rule 5180:2-19-10 | Licensure and monitoring.

• Effective: July 1, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Which school child programs require a license issued by the Ohio department of children and youth (DCY)?

All school districts, county boards of developmental disabilities, community schools, eligible nonpublic schools, child care programs operated by an authorized private before and after school care program accepting state or federal funds specifically for school child care and/or child day care pursuant to Chapter 5104. of the Revised Code will be licensed. School districts, county boards of developmental disabilities, community schools and eligible nonpublic schools not accepting state or federal funds specifically for child day care, but who wish to obtain a license for a school child program, will submit an application to DCY in accordance with sections 3301.58 and 3301.59 of the Revised Code.

(B) What is the application process to establish or operate a licensed school child program?

(1) An electronic application for a license will be submitted by the governing body to DCY in accordance with section 3301.58 of the Revised Code at least thirty days prior to the proposed open date and if receiving funding; prior to children attending.

(2) A complete application includes the following documents submitted with the application for the physical location of the program:

(a) A detailed and labeled site plan that includes an indoor floor plan and an outdoor play space diagram of the space proposed to be used to care for children.

(b) A current fire inspection in accordance with section 3301.55 of the Revised Code.

(c) A valid food license or a valid food license exemption from the local health department having jurisdiction or from the Ohio department of health.

(d) If the program is not conducted in a school building, documentation of building approval in accordance with section 3301.55 of the Revised Code.

(3) Upon the filing of an application for an initial license, DCY will investigate and inspect the school child program to determine whether the obligations of sections 3301.52 to 3301.59 of the Revised Code and Chapter 5180:2-19 of the Administrative Code are met.

(C) What are the inspection requirements prior to the initial issuance of a provisional school child license?

DCY will determine that the school child program site is in compliance with all applicable obligations by examination of the following:

(1) The completed application.

(2) The program's physical plan through on-site inspection and proposed operational format at the time of initial application.

(3) Any other documentation as obligated by Chapter 5180:2-19 of the Administrative Code.

(D) When will licensed school child programs be inspected?

Each program will be inspected at least once during every twelve-month period of operation, which may be unannounced. Inspections may be viewed online via the child care search tool on the DCY website. An individual may submit a written request to DCY for a copy of the program's licensing record.

(E) What are additional requirements for a licensed school child program as a result of an inspection and/or complaint investigation?

(1) When a program is out of compliance with the obligations of Chapter 5180:2-19 of the Administrative Code, DCY will electronically notify the program contacts of the alleged non-compliances. The corrective action plans for all non-compliances are to be electronically submitted by the deadline.

(2) On-site verification may be conducted to review progress regarding the correction of non-compliances.

(3) DCY will investigate and may inspect any licensed school child program upon receipt of any complaint that the program is out of compliance with the obligations of sections 3301.52 to 3301.59 of the Revised Code or Chapter 5180:2-19 of the Administrative Code.

(a) The investigation of complaints alleging serious life, health, or safety risks will be initiated within twenty-four hours of receipt of the complaint report.

(b) The investigation and appropriate action on all other complaints will commence within five working days of the receipt of the complaint report.

(4) DCY will complete an inspection report for each complaint at the conclusion of the investigation summarizing all allegations, the results of the investigation, and the expectations for correction of any confirmed non-compliances. A copy of the report, with confidential information deleted, will be provided to any person who submits a written request to DCY. The licensing record will include, but not be limited to complaint investigation documents. Neither the disposition report nor the summary letters obligated by this rule will disclose the results of investigations of abuse or neglect conducted by the local public children services agency.

(F) What is a licensing inspection non-compliance?

A licensing inspection non-compliance is a licensure rule violation. Inspections could result in moderate or serious risk findings. Non-compliance findings vary depending on the potential to lead to a risk of harm to a child and are observable and/or based on facts. Moderate and serious risk non-compliances are assigned point values and the annual accumulated points may result in DCY licensing or step up to quality (SUTQ) actions, pursuant to section 5104.29 of the Revised Code.

(G) What if a licensed school child program does not agree with the licensing finding?

(1) The licensed school child program may request a review of a non-compliance finding in the Ohio statewide licensing system within ten business days from the receipt of the inspection report.

(2) The licensed school child program may elect to participate in an initial review of the request with a DCY representative.

(3) Following an initial review, the licensed school child program may elect to participate in a committee review of the request with a DCY committee.

(4) The committee's decision is considered final.

(H) Will the license capacity be the maximum allowable for a newly issued license?

Unless otherwise requested by the licensee, local certified building department, the Ohio department of commerce, state fire marshal or local fire safety inspector, the license capacity will be the maximum allowable based on the site plan.

(I) When will a provisional license be issued to a school child program?

(1) A provisional license will be issued following the investigation and inspection of the school child program and DCY has determined that all obligations have been satisfied. This includes whether the obligations of sections 3301.52 to 3301.59 of the Revised Code and Chapter 5180:2-19 of the Administrative Code have been met.

(2) A provisional license is valid for a period of not more than twelve months from the date of approval of the license.

(J) What are the requirements for the provisional license to be amended to a continuous license at the end of the provisional period?

Within the twelve month provisional period, the program will be inspected at least once by DCY to determine whether the obligations of sections 3301.52 to 3301.59 of the Revised Code and Chapter 5180:2-19 of the Administrative Code are being met. If the program is in compliance and has met all obligations prior to the end of the twelve-month period, the provisional license will be amended to continuous licensure at the end of the provisional period.

(K) Who can be issued a school child license?

A license or provisional license is valid only for the licensee, the address, and capacity for each school child program site designated on the license.

(L) Does the school child program license need to be visible?

Each licensed school child program will have its license granted under section 3301.58 of the Revised Code posted in a conspicuous place that is visible to parents, school child program staff members and employees at all times.

(M) What is the process to change or amend a license?

(1) The governing body is responsible for the program's operation is responsible for securing and maintaining a license for the facility in which it operates.

(2) What information can be amended on an existing license?

(a) License capacity.

(b) Change of location of the program.

(3) The amendment request and all applicable documents are to be submitted in the Ohio statewide licensing system.

(4) What is the timeline for requesting an amendment?

(a) For a change in capacity, the program will request and be approved for the amendment prior to serving additional children. This includes submitting all required corrective action plans as required by paragraph (E)(1) of this rule.

(b) For a change in location, the program will request the amendment at least thirty days prior to the last day at the current location. Failure to request within thirty days may result in a gap of care. Care may not begin until the license has been transferred to the new location.

(5) Upon approval of the proposed change, DCY will issue an amended license.

(6) If the governing body will no longer be responsible for operating a school child program, they are to submit a closure request in the Ohio statewide licensing system.

(N) How will a governing body request a voluntary temporary closure/inactive status for the license of a preschool?

(1) The program is to request the temporary closure status in the Ohio statewide licensing system. The program license will then be considered "inactive" in the system.

(2) The temporary closure/inactive status may not exceed twelve months.

(3) The program may not serve any children during the temporary closure/inactive status.

(4) The program may be required to comply with an inspection prior to the end of the temporary closure/inactive status and prior to serving children again.

(O) What information will the school child program keep current in the Ohio statewide licensing system?

The name and contact information of the program administrator, services, months, days, and operating hours of the program are to be maintained in the Ohio statewide licensing system.

(P) What are the moderate risk non-compliances for a licensed school child program?

The following are identified as moderate risk non-compliances of a license due to an increased risk of harm to children and are worth three points each:

(1) Program does not obtain or maintain food service license due to violations or serves food without a food service license.

(2) Program does not obtain a complete a fire inspection with no violations or fire inspection update not requested prior to expiration.

(3) Program exceeds room/building occupancy or program cares for children in a space not approved for care.

(4) Background check or fingerprints not submitted or background check is expired and not updated.

(5) Children not protected from unsafe items, conditions or situations.

(6) Program is out of ratio or exceeds license capacity.

(7) Child in attendance more than four hours without being offered a meal.

(8) Use of banned disciplinary techniques in accordance with rule 5180:2-19-08 and rule 3301-35-15 of the Administrative Code.

(Q) What are the serious risk non-compliances for a licensed school child program?

The following are identified as serious risk non-compliances of a license due to the greatest risk of harm to children and are worth six points each:

(1) Children left unsupervised pursuant to the obligations of this chapter, or left unattended outside of a facility building.

(2) Children left unattended on a field trip or in a vehicle, or transportation policies not followed.

(3) Falsified information is submitted that puts children at risk.

(4) Program fails to report suspected abuse/neglect/endangering.

(5) Administration of medication procedures do not meet the obligations of this chapter, or medication is dispensed to the wrong child or the wrong dosage is administered.

(6) Substantiated public children's services agency finding of abuse or neglect for any school child program staff member.

(7) Employee refuses to be fingerprinted and remains employed, or a person remains employed when they are not eligible for employment.

(8) Swimming activity takes place without a life guard, or a life guard is used to count in the ratio, or a swimming site is accessible to children without staff supervision, or swimming activity takes place in lakes ponds and rivers.

(9) Weapons or ammunition are on the premises without proper approval in accordance with section 2923.11 of the Revised Code and/or accessible to children.

(10) DCY or representatives of DCY are denied access to conduct a rule compliance review or inspection pursuant to this chapter.

(11) A child or children are not protected from harm which results in a serious incident or injury.

(R) What actions may DCY take when a serious risk non-compliance occurs?

Any serious risk non-compliance described in, but not necessarily limited to this rule, as reviewed by DCY at its discretion may result in any of the following:

(1) Denial of a license application or approval for a non-expiring or continuous license.

(2) Revocation of a license.

(3) Reduction or removal of a quality rating.

(4) Loss of funding.

(S) What is a serious incident?

The following are identified as serious incidents:

(1) Death of a child at the program.

(2) An incident, injury, or illness that requires professional medical consultation or treatment for a child.

(3) An unusual or unexpected incident which jeopardizes the safety of a child, school child program staff member or employee of the program.

(4) An incident defined as a serious risk non-compliance as indicated in paragraph (Q) of this rule.

(T) What does the licensed school child program do if there is a serious incident?

(1) The program will report the serious incident, as defined in paragraph (S) of this rule, to DCY in the Ohio statewide licensing system by the next business day.

(2) This notification does not replace mandatory reports of suspected child abuse or neglect required by section 2151.421 of the Revised Code.

(3) The program may print the completed serious incident report in the Ohio statewide licensing system and give to the parent to meet the parent notification requirements for incidents outlined in rule 5180:2-19-05 of the Administrative Code.

(4) If a child is transported by anyone other than a parent for emergency treatment, the child's health and medical records are to accompany the child. The administrator or a school child program staff member is to stay with the child until the parent assumes responsibility for the child's care.

(U) What happens if an application is in the process of being denied or a provisional or continuous license is in the process of being revoked?

If DCY revokes the license held by the governing body of a school child program as defined in section 3301.52 of the Revised Code, it will not issue a license to the facility within five years from the date of revocation of a license.

(V) Which licensing actions by DCY give the school child program rights to an adjudicatory hearing, in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 119. of the Revised Code?

(1) All actions of DCY with respect to licensing a school child program's facility or revoking a license, will be in conformity with sections 3301.57 and 3301.58 and Chapter 119. of the Revised Code.

(2) Those licensing actions, which will be afforded the right to an administrative hearing, include the following:

(a) The proposal to deny an initial or continuous license.

(b) The proposal to revoke an existing license, be it a provisional or a continuous license.

(c) The proposal to deny a continuous license at the expiration of a provisional license.

(3) A request for an administrative hearing pursuant to Chapter 119. of the Revised Code and Chapter 5180:2-19 of the Administrative Code will be submitted to DCY, and will be considered to have been made as of the date received.

(W) Which DCY licensing actions, ministerial in nature, are not subject to an administrative hearing?

(1) Those licensing actions that are of an administrative nature will not be afforded the right to an administrative hearing. These actions include rejection of any application for licensure for procedural reasons such as, but not limited to, incomplete submission, use of an invalid form, failure to make information available to DCY, or failure to make information available during an inspection.

(2) The school child program license will be closed by DCY without hearing rights afforded by Chapter 119. of the Revised Code if:

(a) At the end of the twelve months, the program has not requested in the Ohio statewide licensing system to reinstate the license that has been in a temporary closure/inactive status.

(b) At the end of twelve months the program is not able to be re-opened.

(c) A program fails to enroll children for twenty four months and refuses to voluntarily permanently close the program.

(X) What are the reasons an applicant may have an application denied or a licensed school child program may have a provisional or continuous license revoked?

DCY may deny or revoke a license in accordance with section 119.07 of the Revised Code if it is determined that the governing body, applicant or licensee:

(1) Knowingly makes a false statement on the application.

(2) Does not comply with all of the obligations of Chapter 5180:2-19 of the Administrative Code and sections 3301.52 and 3301.59 of the Revised Code.

(3) Has pleaded guilty or been convicted of an offense described in section 3301.541 of the Revised Code.

(4) Has a maximum annual accumulation of points for licensure violations, as determined by DCY.

(Y) What if a school child program voluntarily surrenders the license or voluntarily withdraws the application during the revocation or denial process?

The surrender of a license to DCY or the withdrawal of an application for licensure by a school district, county board of developmental disabilities, community schools, eligible nonpublic school, or child care program operated by an authorized private before and after school care program will not ban DCY from instituting any of the actions set forth in this rule.

Last updated July 1, 2026 at 8:46 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 3301.53, 3301.58
Amplifies: 3301.52, 3301.53, 3301.531, 3301.54, 3301.541, 3301.55, 3301.56, 3301.57, 3301.58, 3301.59
Five Year Review Date: 7/1/2031