Child care fee changes announced Published Aug. 4, 2010 By Aletha Frost AFDW/PA Air Force District of Washington -- To compensate for six years without fee range increases, the Defense Department is adjusting its child care fees and adding categories for its highest income earners. Changes in child care fees will impact families who have children enrolled in DOD child development centers and school age care programs. The adjusted rate changes will be implemented no later than Sept. 30. "These new CDC fees better align parent pay structures to more categories," said Debra Czajkowski, Air Force District of Washington Services Director. "The increase is minimal and will help offset increasing costs in our CDC programs, and help us provide better service and programs for our youth." The DOD broadened child care fee ranges from six to nine categories, raised the income cap on each fee range, and established the top earning range at $125,000 per year and above for a more equitable policy. Previously, families earning more than $70,000 per year and above all paid the same fee for child care. Under the new policy, families will see either a small decrease or increase in their fees, depending on their total family income. Families earning $85,000 and below will experience relatively minimal changes. The adjusted rate fees ensure that CDCs provide high-quality services, including a developmentally appropriate curriculum, a healthy and safe environment, sufficient number of adults per children in group sizes appropriate for children's ages, and strong communication between staff and families. For specific information and fee guidelines parents are encouraged to contact their local child development center and school-age care program coordinators. To view the DOD Child Development Program-2010/2011 School Year rate fact sheet click here.