Centralized Eligibility List (CEL) - Tehama County

The Centralized Eligibility List (CEL) combines all waiting lists for the Alternative payment program, Tehama County State Preschool, 0-3 subsidized child care programs, Educare Subsidized Child care centers and preschools to allow all subsidized child care agencies in Tehama County to access the children that are eligible for their programs.  The CEL is designed to be a “one stop” for families to be placed on an eligibility list for subsidized child care.  The CEL allows families to be given access to all programs for which you may qualify, expanding your opportunity to be enrolled in Tehama County subsidized programs. 

How long is the wait?

The wait varies.  Unfortunately it is not possible to give you an approximate time.  Enrollments are only made when funding becomes available or when there is an opening in a subsidized child care program. 

Placement on the eligibility list is not a guarantee of services.

What programs are available on the CEL application?

Subsidized Child Care Alternative Payment programs

The Alternative Payment Program administered by the Child Care Referral and Education agency of Tehama County is a parental choice program that serves children ages 0-13 years for parents while they work, job search or are in training.  Eligibility is determined according to need, the size of your family and gross monthly income.  Families may choose from a variety of child care settings; child care centers, licensed family child care homes, a friend, family member or a neighbor (license exempt). 

Educare Subsidized Child Care Centers & Preschool Centers

Child Development Center in Corning provides free and low cost full day, full year early care and education services to eligible children aged 3-5 years. NCCDI Educare in Tehama provides free part day preschool services throughout the school year to children aged 3-5 regardless of need. We offer beautiful learning environments that prepare children for school success through a research based curriculum and active learning experiences. All centers are currently pursuing national accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and are staffed by state credentialed teachers.  Additional services within each program include parent involvement, field trips, nutritious meals, free counseling services, developmental assessments and services for children with special needs.

Tehama County Department of Education State Preschool

State preschool provides Half-day preschool programs primarily serving children age 4 (depending on enrollment, 3 year olds accepted). Families with low to middle income qualify for services under State Department of Education income guidelines. This Program focuses on the development of the whole child and their family.  State Preschool sites:  Antelope, Bidwell, Metteer, Evergreen, Los Molinos, Gerber, Columbia, Jackson Heights, Olive View, West Street and Richfield State Preschool.

Tehama County Department of Education 0-3

The 0-3 Family Child Care Home Education Network is designed to provide full or partial payment for child care for an eligible family.  In order to be eligible, the child must be under 3 years old.  Enrollment is based on eligibility and need as openings occur.  Priority for enrollment is defined by the State Department of Education. Parents must choose one of the approved and participating licensed family child care homes.

You may print an application using the link below.

English version or En Espanol