Parkland sought to reimagine its on-site child care program after years of operating a limited-use drop-in model that was significantly underutilized, serving fewer than 10 children per day across employees and patients. At the same time, the facility layout—characterized by many small classrooms—posed constraints for quality ratios, enrollment capacity and operational efficiency.

Parkland needed clarity on licensing requirements, operator expectations, cost drivers, staffing models and the financial contribution necessary to attract a high-quality provider capable of delivering both full-time and backup care.

The organization also needed to determine how to structure the operator contract, define expectations for data and reporting and incorporate equitable tuition and financial support models for employees.

To address these challenges, EPIC developed a detailed and research-informed Statement of Work outlining the full expectations of the center, including licensing requirements, operating hours, curriculum standards, staffing qualifications, financial responsibilities and data-sharing expectations.

In partnership with a Dallas-based child care consultant, EPIC conducted tailored financial modeling to ensure Parkland understood the projected financial impact of operating a full-time and drop-in program under different staffing, tuition and space configuration scenarios.

EPIC also developed the full scope of work language and key questions for inclusion in Parkland’s RFP to guide operator selection. During Phase II, EPIC provided advisory support throughout the evaluation process—reviewing proposals, identifying clarifying questions and participating in vendor presentations—to ensure Parkland had the insight needed to select the operator best aligned with its goals for a high-quality, accessible, and sustainable child care program.

With EPIC’s guidance, Parkland now has a complete, tailored Statement of Work along with a clear understanding of financial requirements, licensing pathways and operational decisions necessary to launch a successful program.

EPIC also provided expert input into the RFP proposal evaluation process, supporting Parkland in assessing vendor capabilities and alignment with the program’s goals. The final outcome will be Parkland’s selection of a child care operator equipped to deliver both high-quality full-time care and flexible backup care, leading to the reopening of the on-site child care center for the Parkland workforce and patient families. This decision will mark a significant step toward improving access to child care, supporting employee retention and strengthening family-centered care within the Parkland community.