Quality Matters
The Quality of Early Care and Education Matters
Numerous studies show that when children receive high quality early care and education during their first five years of life, they are more likely to be ready for school, they are more likely to be better readers, and they are more likely to graduate from high school. These are realities that concern every child, every parent, and every member of our community.
Continuous Quality Improvement
Early care and education sites that are participating in the Early Stars Program are committed to continuous quality improvement. Early Stars supports them in their quality improvement efforts through formal assesses, coaching, training, resources, financial incentives or block grants, technical assistance, and professional development goal setting. State-subsidized preschool programs are rated with a number of stars based on quality elements, which include the following:
Ratios and Group Size
The number of teachers and the size of the group of children are taken into consideration for this element.
Larger number of teachers and smaller group sizes of children help staff spend more quality time engaging individually with children.
Learning Activities
Daily learning activities support each child’s interests, growth and development, culture, and their home language.
The Environment
The environment allows children to learn and develop to their fullest potential. This includes high-interest activities, safety, and positive staff interactions with children in a safe and healthy environment.
Health & Child Development
A child’s overall wellbeing is supported. This includes his or her physical development, as well as their ability to learn and get along with others.
Staff training & education
Directors and teachers are trained in child development and early learning. Some have college units or college degrees. Continuous professional development is encouraged and opportunities are developed.