RATING INFORMATION

To measure progress, each program enrolled in Quality Start is assessed and given a Quality Start Provider Rating, ranging from 1 to 5 leaves. Provider Ratings are based on what research shows are the key components of quality early care, including adult-child interactions, learning environments and appropriate learning activities. For parents and families, Provider Ratings are easy-to-understand indicators of quality. The Provider Rating of each program is made public after at least one year of participating in Quality Start and is posted at the program's location as well as this website.

Quality Start is about continuous quality improvement. The standards are high, and reaching the quality levels is often a long-term process for child care and preschool programs. Those achieving Provider Ratings in the quality levels (3 leaves and above) have met these standards, and all programs enrolled in Quality Start are committed to making improvements that help prepare kids for school and life. It's also important to keep in mind that ratings are just one of several factors to consider when finding the right child care or preschool program for your family's needs.