Specifications include, but are not limited to: The program must have the following: a. Policy and Procedure Manual: The process of developing written guidelines is the strategic link between the FTF Standards of Practice and day-to-day operations of the program. A well developed and highly utilized set of policies and procedures builds infrastructure and capacity and supports continuous quality improvements of programs and services for children and families. FTF requires Grant Partners to have a written document that is accessible to all employees and contract staff members that provides staff with direction, consistency and set expectations for service delivery (e.g., Standard Operating Procedures, Implementation Guide, Policies and Procedures Manual) including the following: o The written document must be updated annually and be read and reviewed by all employees and contract staff members. b. Cultural Responsiveness: First Things First embraces cultural responsiveness as an intentional life long journey that holistically explores, honors, and values the diversity of the human experience. Grant partners implementing this strategy are required to have a written policy and procedures for the organization and/or program that describes how culturally responsive practices are infused into service delivery. The written policy must describe how: o Programs and services are congruent with the needs of diverse children and families. o Programs and services are responsive to the impact of regional and cultural factors such as histories, traditions, values, family systems and structures, social class, and religious and spiritual beliefs. o The environment is conducive to and inclusive of all children and families and respects families’ composition, gender, racial, ethnic, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds. o Cultural knowledge and prior experiences are used to ensure services are responsive and adaptive. c. Inclusive Services: First Things First fosters the vision that children and adults of all abilities have access to all programs and services. Inclusion in early childhood programs can lead to a lifetime of inclusion for a child. Grant partners implementing this strategy must have a written policy and procedures for the organization and/or program that addresses the following: o Programs must create an environment conducive to and inclusive of the unique needs of all children and adults. o Programs must adjust their services to support meeting the needs of children and adults with all degrees of ability. o Adherence to the federal Americans with Disabilities Act...
