Episode 33 - CCS Lunch & Learn

This episode of the Decal Download Podcast features a special segment on the upcoming CCS Lunch and Learn, a virtual educational event hosted by Georgia's Child Care Services (CCS) division. The hosts, Commissioner Amy M. Jacobs and Chief Communications Officer Reg Griffin, welcome four CCS team members—Casey Purvis, Rebecca Mullinex, Kajara McCoy, and Christina Jennings—to discuss the critical role of required reporting in child care programs. The conversation covers the types of reports providers must submit, including incidents of child abuse, serious injuries, communicable diseases, and program closures, along with common mistakes like delayed or incomplete submissions. The team emphasizes that consultants are not enforcers but partners in supporting providers, promoting a culture of collaboration and proactive compliance. They highlight tools like the Indicator Manual, Decal Koala system, and the Consultant of the Day hotline as key resources for staying informed and compliant. The episode also previews the May 12, 2026, Lunch and Learn, which will include live Q&A, and promotes the event’s quarterly rollout to support ongoing provider education. A fun segment on 'movie roles' humanizes the team, revealing their personal backgrounds and humor. The episode concludes with a quiz contest offering prizes from local businesses, reinforcing community engagement. Key takeaways include: (1) Providers must submit required reports within 24 hours of becoming aware of incidents requiring medical attention; (2) Documentation—photos, videos, incident reports—is essential for compliance and safety; (3) Consultants are available for support and should be the first point of contact for unclear reporting requirements; (4) The CCS Lunch and Learn is a valuable, free resource with recordings available on YouTube for those who can’t attend live; (5) The state conducts two unannounced inspections per year, underscoring the importance of consistent record-keeping; (6) Proactive communication and relationship-based monitoring are central to the CCS philosophy; (7) The goal of all reporting is the health and safety of Georgia’s children; (8) Providers should use the Consultant of the Day line (404-657-5562) if they can’t reach their assigned consultant. The tone is encouraging, informative, and collaborative, reflecting a strong commitment to supporting early care providers.