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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQs)

What is the Early Learning Shared Services Alliance of San Antonio (ELSSA)?

Early Learning Shared Services Alliance of San Antonio is a powerful network of child development centers and child care providers dedicated to creating the best early learning environments.

Alliance members are a part of a community that engages in peer support, receives personal business and quality coaching, and creates opportunities to learn and grow professionally.

A young girl playing with Play-Doh and looking up with a smile
Why should I join ELSSA?

We believe in fostering a collaborative spirit among child care providers across San Antonio. Here, you'll have the opportunity to connect with colleagues, share best practices, and offer peer-to-peer support in a friendly and professional environment.

Alliance members will gain access to valuable resources to strengthen business and pedagogical practices that will increase the quality of education and care services. Members have access to programs that will support working towards a Texas Rising Star 4-star rating, funding opportunities, and services exclusive to Alliance members.

Ready to join? Get started.

Am I required to have Texas Rising Star certification?

In September, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) adopted rule changes, effective October 3, 2022, to implement House Bill (HB) 2607 that was passed by the Texas Legislature in 2021.

HB 2607 requires all child care providers in TWC’s CCS program to participate in the Texas Rising Star program. Child care providers that do not become Texas Rising Star-certified by the deadline of September 2024 cannot enroll families that receive CCS financial aid.

When can I apply to join ELSSA?

ELSSA accepts new members once a year. Applications to join the 2025 Cohort will be available in Fall 2025. If you want more information, please fill out an interest form, and one of our team members will reach out to you.

What are the eligibility requirements to join ELSSA?
  • Eligible child development centers and family care providers must be located in San Antonio city limits.
  • Providers must enroll childcare subsidies families through the Texas Workforce Commission Child Care Services program, military-affiliated children, or children with exceptional needs.
  • Providers must be licensed or registered with the state of Texas.
  • Providers must be working towards Texas Rising Star 4-star status.
  • Providers must be willing to pay higher wages and provide benefits to educators once cost savings are realized.
What is the process for joining ELSSA?
  1. Submit interest form.
  2. Pre-K 4 SA team member will call within two business days to provide more information.
  3. Pre-K 4 SA team member will conduct an interest interview.
  4. Child development centers and family child care providers meeting ELSSA criteria will be forwarded the full application.
  5. Attend a program information session.
  6. Child care development centers and family child care providers accepted into the Alliance will receive a partnership agreement.
What solutions are provided by ELSSA?
  • Professional learning services
  • One-on-one director coaching
  • Business coaching
  • Instructional coaching
  • Free staff credentialing
  • Operations and administrative support
  • Marketing and communications counsel
  • Access to child management software
  • Texas Rising Star Certification support
  • Curricular innovations
  • CLASS assessment
  • Access to funding opportunities

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