As a non-profit organization, our mission is to encourage and recognize as many high-quality programs as possible. With this mission as a guide, we have kept our Accreditation fees highly competitive and with your financial success in mind. Additionally, many states offer partial, if not full accreditation fee support. Contact your local licensing agency or QRIS office today to see what benefits your state may offer.

Alabama

QRIS Name: Alabama Quality STARS: Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS)

NECPA / Accreditation Role: Extra Points

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot:

• TA: Free coaching through the V.I.S.I.O.N. model, focused on helping programs advance toward higher Quality STARS levels. 

• Grants: Locally determined based on program Quality Improvement Goals. 

• Subsidy: Incremental tiered subsidy rates based on Quality STARS level. 

• Awards: Bonus incentives ranging from $2,200 to $81,000, depending on Quality STARS level and program capacity. 

• Staff: No statewide staff wage supplement identified; staff supports may be locally determined. 

• Scholarships: Access to T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Alabama scholarship supports.

• http://alabamaqualitystars.org/

• https://alabamaqualitystars.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Alabama_Quality_STARS_Program_Guidelines_Revised_April_2024_01626.pdf 

• http://www.ccrc-alabama.org/Testimonials.html

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Alaska

QRIS: Learn & Grow

• A voluntary system that provides supports and resources for programs to actively participate in continuous quality improvement activities. Supports include:

  • Coaching, technical assistance, and training

  • Quality Recognition Awards (financial support)

  • Marketing and communication materials

• The Alaska System for Early Education Development (SEED) is Alaska’s early childhood and school-age professional development system.

  • Financial Support Available for SEED Registry Members

Sources:

• http://threadalaska.org/

• https://www.threadalaska.org/seed/financial-support

• www.seedalaska.org

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Arizona

QRIS Name: Quality First

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot:

• TA: Coordinators, Coaches, & Child Care Health Consultants.
• Grants: Up to $4,700 for 3-star programs; up to $20,000 for programs pursuing quality, per provided data/source verification needed.
• Subsidy: 50% increase for all participants rated at 3, 4, or 5 stars.
• Awards: Scholarships to offset family tuition costs.
• Staff: $500 per teacher for staff recognition (4 and 5 stars).
• Scholarships: Quality First Scholarships available.

Sources:

• https://www.qualityfirstaz.com/quality-improvement/pursuing-quality/

• http://qualityfirstaz.com/

• https://www.firstthingsfirst.org/about-first-things-first/publications (Scroll to the bottom and look for the “Quality First Participant Guide”)

• http://www.childfamilyresources.org/childcare-professionals

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Arkansas

QRIS Name: Better Beginnings

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Not Explicitly Listed, seeking formal approval. (NECPA Programs can currently submit their award for individual approval.)

Provider Benefits Snapshot:

• TA: Free Better Beginnings Project Specialists and TA.
• Grants: Unspecified (built into initial certification award).
• Subsidy: Higher daily CCDF rates at highest tiers.
• Awards: One-time cash award upon initial certification for each star level.
• Scholarships: T.E.A.C.H. / Early Childhood educational funds.

Sources:

• http://www.arbetterbeginnings.com/

• Better_Beginnings_Tiered_Quality_Rating_and_Improvement_System_(2nd_Round)_-_Markup_151344.pdf

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California

QRIS Name: Quality Counts California (QCC)

NECPA / Accreditation Role: Extra Points       

NECPA Recognized:   Not Explicitly Listed, seeking formal approval. (NECPA Programs can currently submit their award for individual approval.)

Provider Benefits Snapshot:  

• TA: Regional QCC Hubs provide targeted TA & training.
• Grants: $1,500 to $7,000 based on capacity and tier.
• Subsidy: Set by local consortia.
• Awards: QCC Block Grants distributed locally.
• Staff: Varies by local consortia via Workforce Pathways.
• Scholarships: Subsidized CDA and BA pathways locally.

Sources:

• http://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/cd/rt/

• http://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/cd/op/csppqrisblockgrant.asp

• Funding – Finance & Grants (CA Dept of Education)

• Quality Counts California (CA) – Quality Rating and Improvement System (CA Dept of Education)

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Colorado

QRIS Name: Colorado Shines Quality Rating and Improvement System

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot:

• TA: Free QI Navigators & on-site coaching.
• Grants: $2,800 to $4,200, plus up to $7,500 for infant/toddler quality supports, per provided data/source verification needed.
• Subsidy: Tiered enhancements set independently by county.
• Awards: State-purchased TS GOLD licenses / ASQ kits.
• Staff: Handled via county-level distribution.
• Scholarships: Free ECE college courses / T.E.A.C.H.

Sources:

• http://coloradoshines.force.com/ColoradoShines/programs?p=Program-Resources

• Colorado Shines | Home

• Quality Initiatives | Colorado Department of Early Childhood

• Kids Strong Start – Colorado Springs, CO Family Friendly Initiative

• https://denverearlychildhood.org/

• https://qualistar.org/t-e-a-c-h-ece-scholarship/ (Eligibility and applications for scholarships)

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Connecticut

QRIS Name: Elevate

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Not Explicitly Listed, seeking formal approval. (NECPA Programs can currently submit their award for individual approval.)

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: WBDC TA & OEC content training.
• Grants: WBDC grants for tech and facility needs.
• Subsidy: 25% increase for centers; 10-12.5% for FCCs.
• Awards: $1,480 bonus for Member+; $750 for family child care, per provided data/source verification needed.
• Staff: State exploring wage boosts via new $300M endowment.
• Scholarships: State covers accreditation fees.

Sources:

• http://www.ctearlychildhood.org/qris.html

• http://www.ctcare4kids.com/ (Care 4 Kids helps low to moderate income families in Connecticut pay for child care costs. This program is sponsored by the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood.)

• http://www.ctearlychildhood.org/uploads/6/3/3/7/6337139/early_care_and_education_programs_and_services_in_connecticut.pdf

• http://www.ctearlychildhood.org/uploads/6/3/3/7/6337139/early_childhood_cabinet_minutes_3.27.17-jmj.pdf

• CT.gov Education Topic

• Homepage – Connecticut Office of Early Childhood

• For Providers – Connecticut Office of Early Childhood

• https://www.ccacregistry.org/_forms_documents/FY18_scholarship_at_a_glance.pdf (Office of Early Childhood (OEC) Scholarship)

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Delaware

QRIS Name: Delaware Stars for Early Success

NECPA / Accreditation Role: Accreditation NOT Used in QRIS.

NECPA Recognized: Not Applicable

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Quality Improvement Specialists & Practice Based Coaching.
• Grants: $15,000 to $55,000 for licensed programs.
• Subsidy: Tiered reimbursement based on Purchase of Care rates.
• Awards: Tiered Quality Improvement Awards.
• Staff: WAGE$ program supplements.
• Scholarships: T.E.A.C.H. and CORE awards.

Sources:

• Delaware Stars for Early Success (DE Stars) – My Child DE

• Licensing – My Child DE

• Trainings – My Child DE
• Quality – My Child DE

• http://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dss/childcr.html

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Florida

QRIS Name: Gold Seal/ Guiding Stars / Thrive by 5

NECPA / Accreditation Role: Extra Points / Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: MyTeachstone, TSG coaching, & Mental Health Consultation.
• Grants: $500 mini-grants for classroom materials.
• Subsidy: 20% state add-on (Gold Seal); 10-15% local add-on.
• Awards: $200 to $12,000 (Miami Thrive by 5).
• Staff: $400 to $6,000 based on tier and credentials.
• Scholarships: Educator scholarships up to $400.

Sources:

• http://www.myflfamilies.com/service-programs/child-care/goldseal

• Quality Checklist for Child Care
• Child Care Licensure | Florida DCF

• http://www.floridaearlylearning.com/coalitions.aspx

• http://www.myflfamilies.com/service-programs/child-care/goldseal-process (Steps and Application)

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Georgia

QRIS Name: Quality Rated

NECPA / Accreditation Role: Extra Points

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: CCR&R coaching (5-Phase model).
• Grants: Classwallet grants for materials/ERS modules.
• Subsidy: Handled separately via DECAL CAPs.
• Awards: $5,000/classroom (max $50k) Restoration Grants.
• Staff: $1,200 to $2,500 credential bonuses; $250 to $1,250 salary supplements, per provided data/source verification needed.
• Scholarships: DECAL Scholars (pays 80% tuition).

Sources:

• https://qualityrated.decal.ga.gov/Default.aspx

• https://qualityrated.decal.ga.gov/Shared/Help.aspx?v=bp

• https://qualityrated.decal.ga.gov/Content/Documents/PM_ProgramManual.pdf

r an additional fee ($300.00) and shorten the review time to 2 weeks from the date the NECPA Office has both the visit materials and the expedited request. To download the NECPA Expedited National Accreditation Council (NAC) Result Request Form, please click HERE.

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Hawaii

Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) Pilot

• QRIS is Hawai‘i’s voluntary quality rating and improvement system for center-based and home-based (family child care) early childhood care and education programs licensed by the Department of Human Services (DHS).

• Assesses and provides programs with a Quality Assessment Report that includes a Rating Level to help identify their strengths (what is working well), and areas for improvement (what could be strengthened) in their efforts toward continuous quality improvement

  • Rating Level (1-5) is based on a program’s performance on specified assessment measures: assessment scores, staff qualifications, and required supporting evidence

  • NECPA accreditation is recognized – Level 5 and Tiered rate/rate add-on

• Supports programs with resources to help with their continuous quality improvement efforts. These resources include:

  • coaching —provided by highly skilled and knowledgeable early childhood professionals to help programs identify and implement quality improvement goals and concrete actions to bring about desired changes

  • financial supports—provided by public and private funders to allow programs to move toward achieving their quality improvement goals. There are two forms of financial supports:

    • Quality Award—an award made based on a program’s Rating Level, size of program and number of children receiving subsidies for child care, to be used to support quality improvement efforts

    • Quality Improvement Grant—supplemental funds for which a program can apply to support quality improvement efforts

Sources:

• http://humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/child-care-program/qris/

• http://humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/files/2013/01/What-is-QRIS_7.18.12.pdf

• http://childcareaware.org/state/hawaii/

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Idaho

QRIS Name: Steps to Quality

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Multidisciplinary teams (Quality, Health, Resource).
• Grants: Up to $5,500 for program improvements.
• Awards: $700 to $1,700 annually (Steps 3-6).
• Scholarships: IdahoSTARS academic scholarships.

Sources:

• http://idahostars.org/?q=qris

• http://idahostars.org/?q=Contact

• http://idahostars.org/?q=new-providers

• http://idahostars.org/?q=licensing

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Illinois

QRIS Name: ExceleRate Illinois

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Free Infant/Toddler & Quality Specialists.
• Grants: State-purchased curriculum & materials. Quality Improvement Funds, pay for 80% of accreditation fees.
• Subsidy: 15% CCAP add-on (Gold); 10% (Silver).
• Awards: Tiered Quality Awards.
• Staff: Great START wage supplements.
• Scholarships: Gateways to Opportunity scholarships.

Sources:

• Home – Excelerate Illinois

• Circles of Quality – Excelerate Illinois

• Important Links and Information – Excelerate Illinois

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Indiana

QRIS Name: Paths to Quality(TM)

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Spark Learning Lab (3 Tiers of intensive TA).
• Grants: $50 classroom instructional kits.
• Subsidy: 15% above max reimbursement (Level 4).
• Awards: $1,500 cash (Level 4); $1k non-cash (L2/L3).
• Scholarships: Support for Accreditation/Validation fees.

Sources:

• http://www.in.gov/fssa/carefinder/2554.htm

• FSSA: Carefinder: Professional Development

• FSSA: Paths to QUALITY: Home

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Iowa

QRIS Name: Iowa Quality for Kids (IQ4K)

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Free CCR&R specialists.
• Subsidy: Tiered CCAP rates at Level 5.
• Awards: $800 up to $16,000 based on capacity/level.
• Staff: WAGE$ stipends.
• Scholarships: T.E.A.C.H.

Sources:

• https://iowaccrr.org/providers/QRS/

• Iowa Quality for Kids (IQ4K®) | Health & Human Services
• Child Care Licensing | Health & Human Services

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Kansas

QRIS Name: Links to Quality

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: CCR&R TA Network.
• Grants: DCF quality grants.
• Subsidy: Tiered subsidy rate increases.
• Awards: Quality recognition bonuses.
• Scholarships: Early Childhood scholarships.

Sources:

• Quality Measurement | KanCare
• Providers | KanCare

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Kentucky

QRIS Name: Kentucky All STARS

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Quality Coaches (free of charge).
• Subsidy: Maximum tiered rates applied at Level 4/5.
• Awards: Star achievement bonuses.
• Scholarships: T.E.A.C.H.

Sources:

• KY All STARS Provider Information – Cabinet for Health and Family Services
• Awards | KY PTA

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Louisiana

QRIS: Quality Start

• Quality Start is a voluntary program for licensed child care centers, designed to recognize, support and increase the quality of child care throughout Louisiana. Participating centers can earn up to five stars. Quality Start also offers training and incentives to child care providers to help increase their rating. Important new quarterly bonuses and tax credits are also available to parents who choose a Quality Start center.

  • 1 STAR – The one star rating indicates that the center has a license in good standing and no outstanding deficiencies.

  • 2 STARS – The two star rating indicates that the center staff has received more specialized training and the center has completed a self-assessment plan.

  • 3–5 STARS – The three to five star rating indicates the center provides quality child care based on staff qualifications and the Environment Rating Scales (ERS).

• Top five incentives for joining Quality Start:

  • The SRTC Tax Credits

  • Louisiana Pathways Scholarships

  • CCR&R Technical Assistance

  • Child Care Mental Health Consultations

  • CCAP Bonuses

Sources:

• Child Care Facility Licensing

• Early Childhood

• http://www.qrslouisiana.org/child-care-providers/incentives

• http://www.qrslouisiana.org/child-care-providers/faqs

• http://www.qrslouisiana.org/child-care-providers/how-to-get-your-stars

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Maine

QRIS: Quality for ME

• A four-step program designed to increase awareness of the basic standards of early care and education, to recognize and support providers who are providing care above and beyond those standards, and to educate the community of the benefits of higher quality care.Quality for ME has three goals.

  • To recognize child care programs that provide quality care

  • To encourage providers to increase their level of quality

  • To provide parents with identifiable standards of quality

Sources:

• Child Care Provider Licensing | Department of Health and Human Services

• Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS), Rising Stars for ME | Department of Health and Human Services

• Early Childhood Education Improvement | Department of Health and Human Services

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Maryland

QRIS Name: Maryland EXCELS

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Program Coordinators & QA Specialists.
• Grants: Discounts to vendors/associations (17-25%).
• Subsidy: 10% to 44% depending on age/tier.
• Awards: $1,000 to $13,500 for publishing/increasing ratings.
• Staff: Child Care Credential bonuses.
• Scholarships: Career & Professional Dev Fund (100% tuition).

Sources:

• http://www.marylandexcels.org/commitment-to-quality/

• Child Care Scholarship Program | Division of Early Childhood

• Regional Licensing Offices | Division of Early Childhood

• mfnemployerchildcaretoolkit.com

• http://earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org/child-care-providers/maryland-excels/maryland-accreditation

• http://earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org/child-care-providers/maryland-excels/maryland-program-accreditation/accreditation-support-fund

• https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeSiGTAJtwym77c3aS2vJv2Hz3kQP4lkLcnXvSfDSKmO9FNfw/viewform (Application for Accreditation Support Fund – National Accreditation)

• http://www.marylandexcels.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Child-Care-Center-Standards-March-2014-5.pdf

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Massachusetts

QRIS Name: Massachusetts Continuous Quality Improvement System (MA CQIS)

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Local Educator/Provider Support networks.
• Grants: Commonwealth Preschool Partnership grants.
• Subsidy: High-quality programs receive top voucher rates.
• Awards: Tiered grants (System currently paused/updating).
• Staff: Commonwealth Cares for Children (C3) grants.
• Scholarships: ECE scholarships.

Sources:

• Promoting High-Quality Early Education and Care | Mass.gov

• Child Care Program Licensing | Mass.gov

• Level 1Documentation Planner

• http://www.mass.gov/edu/government/departments-and-boards/department-of-early-education-and-care/

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Michigan

QRIS Name: Great Start to Quality

NECPA / Accreditation Role: Accreditation NOT Used in QRIS.

NECPA Recognized: Not Applicable

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Quality Improvement Coaches (up to 12 months).
• Subsidy: $1.40/hr to $2.15/hr add-on at highest tiers.
• Scholarships: T.E.A.C.H.

Sources:

• How It Works – Great Start to Quality

• Great Start to Quality – Find High Quality Child Care in Michigan

• Enhancing Quality – Great Start to Quality

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Minnesota

QRIS Name: Parent Aware

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Relationship-Based Quality Coaches (6-12 mos).
• Grants: $1,500 to $4,000 Full-Rating Grants.
• Subsidy: 20% above max (4-Star); 15% (3-Star).
• Awards: $1,000 for Building Quality cohort.
• Staff: Retention bonuses via Stabilization.
• Scholarships: Early Learning Scholarships (up to $15k/child).

Sources:

• http://parentaware.org/

• http://parentaware.org/programs/

• http://parentaware.org/programs/benefits-for-rated-programs/

• http://parentaware.org/programs/apr-resources/#accreditation/

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Mississippi

QRIS Name: MS Elevate QSS

NECPA / Accreditation Role: Accreditation NOT Used in QRIS.

NECPA Recognized: Not Applicable

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Coaching model via Elevate QSS.
• Grants: Continuous quality improvement micro-grants.
• Subsidy: Standard CCDF rates.
• Awards: Badging recognition awards.

Sources:

• Child Care ProviDivision of Early Childhood Care & Development – Mississippi Department of Human Servicesder

• Training – Mississippi State Department of Health

• Child Care Providers – Mississippi Department of Human Services

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Missouri

QRIS Name: Quality Assurance Report (QAR)

NECPA / Accreditation Role: Accreditation NOT Used in QRIS.

NECPA Recognized: Not Applicable

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: State specialists / QA teams.
• Subsidy: Tiered rates for highest level programs.
• Awards: Early Childhood Dev fund offsets sliding scales.
• Scholarships: T.E.A.C.H. Missouri.

Sources:

• https://dss.mo.gov/cd/child-care/

• http://www.senate.mo.gov/16info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=22246585

• Preschool Development Grant Birth through Five (PDG B-5) | The Administration for Children and Families

• Race to the Top – Early Learning Challenge | The Administration for Children and Families

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Montana

QRIS: Best Beginnings STARS to Quality Program

• The Best Beginnings STARS to Quality Program is a voluntary quality rating and improvement system that aligns quality indicators with support and incentives for early childhood programs and early childhood professionals. The Early Childhood Services Bureau has enjoyed watching the program grow and develop with the input from the various stakeholders, and has listened carefully to early childhood professionals, parents, and national experts to provide a strong program, desired by many.

• STARS incentives are available to programs in two forms:

  • quarterly quality improvement awards

  • tiered reimbursement percent increases (above standard state reimbursement rates) for those facilities choosing to serve Best Beginnings Scholarship families.

Sources:

• STARS To Quality | Raise MT

• Professional Development | Raise MT

• STARS Program | The Nurturing Center | Montana

• Incentive Program –

• STARS Center Standards

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Nebraska

QRIS Name: Step Up to Quality

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Free coaching (on-site or virtual).
• Subsidy: 5% increase per step (Step 3 to 5).
• Awards: $250 to $1,250 step-up bonuses.
• Scholarships: T.E.A.C.H.

Sources:

• Home – Step Up to Quality

• https://www.education.ne.gov/stepuptoquality/providers-educators/overview/

• https://www.education.ne.gov/stepuptoquality/providers-educators/resources/financial-support/

• Resources for participating providers – Step Up to Quality

• Educator Certification – Nebraska Department of Education

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Nevada

QRIS Name: Nevada Silver State Stars QRIS

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Dedicated QRIS coaches (24-month cycle).
• Grants: $1,500 to $8,500 for materials/furniture.
• Subsidy: Scale maxes at $52/day for infants (5-star).
• Awards: $250 to $2,000 star advancement bonus.
• Scholarships: T.E.A.C.H.

Sources:

• QRIS Home

• Grant Information

• 2024 Purple Star School Application

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New Hampshire

QRIS: Licensed Plus

• Licensed Plus is a quality rating system that recognizes NH child care programs for efforts to improve the quality of care for young children and rewards programs that strive to improve their practices and staff qualifications. It also allows families to identify programs with higher quality. Levels build from a foundation of minimum standards for licensing to full national accreditation.

• Benefits Of Becoming A Licensed Plus Provider

  • Parents can find out about Licensed Plus programs in their communities. They can also contact their Child Care Resource and Referral program;

  • Licensed Plus providers will get a certificate and a logo to display;

  • Licensed Plus is the first of what may be additional steps to national accreditation; and

  • NH Department of Health and Human Services promotes the Licensed Plus Program. This is done via the media, educational opportunities and other available resources.

Sources:

• https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dcyf/licensedplus/index.htm

• https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dcyf/licensedplus/quality.htm

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New Jersey

QRIS Name: Grow NJ Kids

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Technical Assistance Specialists (free).
• Grants: $1,000 (materials) or up to $7k grants.
• Subsidy: 5% above max base rate.
• Awards: $1,000 initial rating bonus.
• Scholarships: Up to $6,000 for CDA/degrees.

Sources:

• http://www.grownjkids.gov/

• http://www.grownjkids.gov/Providers-Educators

• http://www.grownjkids.gov/getattachment/b8f8e99a-06f9-4f04-ad6a-dc4eee62978e/3,-4-and-5-Star-Rating-Point-Requirements-(revised.aspx

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New Mexico

QRIS Name: FOCUS

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Education Consultants (relationship-based).
• Grants: $1,000 to $10,000 planning time grants.
• Subsidy: Flat max rates (e.g., $1,925/infant at 5-Star).
• Staff: Wage Incentive & Pay Parity programs.
• Scholarships: Comprehensive ECE scholarships.

Sources:

• https://www.newmexicokids.org/FOCUS/

• NewMexicoKids.org

• Early Childhood Workforce Development

• ECECD provides roadmap for a universal early childhood system | Early Childhood Education & Care Department

• pulltogether.cyfd.nm.gov/childcare/overview

• https://cyfd.org/

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New York

QRIS Name: QUALITYstarsNY

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Not Explicitly Listed, seeking formal approval. (NECPA Programs can potentially submit their award for individual approval.)

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Quality Improvement Specialists (visits every 4-6 wks).
• Grants: Variable based on Quality Improvement Plan goals.
• Awards: $500M Worker Retention proposed in FY26.
• Scholarships: QUALITYscholars (tuition, books, translation).

Sources:

• New York’s Quality Rating & Improvement System – QUALITYstarsNY

• New York’s QRIS – QUALITYstarsNY

• Quality Standards – New York’s QRIS – QUALITYstarsNY

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North Carolina

QRIS Name: Pathways to the Stars

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes (Seeking 5 star alignment)

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Child Care Health Consultants & CCR&R.
• Grants: State-purchased materials.
• Subsidy: Market rates capped at max tier achieved.
• Staff: $300 to $6,250 through Child Care WAGE$ salary supplements, depending on education level and eligibility.
• Scholarships: T.E.A.C.H. ($500 to $3,000).

Sources:

• North Carolina Star Rated License System – Read

• NC DHHS: Division of Child Development and Early Education

• Licensing Requirements – Child Care Licensing Requirements

• Information for Parents – Parent

• Raise NC | NCDHHS

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North Dakota

QRIS Name: Bright & Early North Dakota

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Not Explicitly Listed, seeking formal approval. (NECPA Programs can potentially submit their award for individual approval.)

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: QRIS Coaches (CQI cycle).
• Grants: $1,000 to $12,000 annually (Steps 2-4).
• Awards: $1,000 to $4,000 one-time incentive.

Sources:

• Bright & Early ND | Health and Human Services North Dakota

• Early Childhood | Health and Human Services North Dakota

• Information For Providers | Health and Human Services North Dakota

• The-PLAYBOOK.pdf

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Ohio

QRIS Name: Step Up To Quality

NECPA / Accreditation Role: Extra Points

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: State specialists & mental health consultants.
• Grants: State-purchased curriculum.
• Subsidy: 5% to 35% enhancement above base rate.
• Staff: $300 to $12,800 (Power Ohio program).
• Scholarships: T.E.A.C.H. / CDA support.

Sources:

• Child Care Search | Department of Children and Youth

• Guidance and Implementation | Department of Children and Youth

• Program Rules and Resources | Department of Children and Youth

• JFS-01597-SUTQ-Guide-For-Child-Care-Providers-2.indd

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Oklahoma

QRIS Name: The Stars Program

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Quality Coaches & R&R specialists.
• Subsidy: Multipliers applied up to 5-Star max.
• Awards: $600 to $1,200 for completing credentials.
• Staff: $400 to $2,200 paid every 6 months.
• Scholarships: Scholars for Excellence (90-100% tuition).

Sources:

• http://www.okdhs.org/services/cc/Pages/childcareSTARS.aspx

• http://www.okdhs.org/services/cc/pages/starsfaqmain.aspx

• http://www.okdhs.org/services/cc/pages/applyforstars.aspx

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Oregon

QRIS Name: Oregon Spark

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Under Redesign

NECPA Recognized: Reviewing Redesign Alignment

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Quality Improvement Specialists (Focused Networks).
• Grants: $1,000 to $2,000 improvement grants.
• Subsidy: Standard CCDF rates (Redesign launching 2026).
• Awards: $500 to $2,500 based on capacity.
• Scholarships: Oregon ECE Scholars.

Sources:

• Spark Home – Oregon Spark

• Spark Redesign – Oregon Spark

• Early Learning Programs – Oregon Spark

• Department of Early Learning and Care : Program Quality Support : For Providers : State of Oregon

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Pennsylvania

QRIS Name: Keystone STARS

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: ELRC Quality Coaches & TA Specialists.
• Subsidy: $0.45/day up to $13.20/day per child (Star 4).
• Awards: Merit Awards & Education/Retention Awards.
• Scholarships: PDOs support 100% degree attainment.

Sources:

• http://www.dhs.pa.gov/provider/earlylearning/keystonestarschildcarequalityinitiative/

• Keystone STARS Quality Initiative | Department of Human Services | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

• Keystone STARS – The Pennsylvania Key

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Rhode Island

QRIS: BrightStars

• BrightStars, Rhode Island’s Tiered Quality Rating and Improvement system, assists families in finding care and recognizes and supports quality in early care and education programs.

• What are the benefits/incentives for joining BrightStars?

  • Support in setting and achieving quality improvement goals and accessing state resources.

  • Support to market or promote your program, including parent brochures, marketing materials, and access to the BrightStars logo. BrightStars programs are also featured on our website, www.BrightStars.org, and in the Exceed database of child care, early learning, and school-age programs.

  • Priority referral to parents searching for care through our online and phone-based referral services.

Sources:

• http://www.brightstars.org/

• http://www.brightstars.org/educators/frequently-asked-questions

• Early Childhood Education | RI Department of Education

• BrightStars RI Rating System | Quality Improvement Resources

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South Carolina

QRIS Name: ABC Quality

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Not Explicitly Listed, seeking formal approval. (NECPA Programs can potentially submit their award for individual approval.)

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: SC Inclusion Collaborative / PITC (free).
• Grants: Quality Care by Design / Grow Outdoors SC grants.
• Subsidy: Max rates up to 95th percentile (Level A+).
• Awards: $2,000 to $6,000 annually based on level.
• Scholarships: Professional development awards ($75 to $186), per provided data/source verification needed.

Sources:

• ABC Quality Rating & Improvement System – SC Child Care Services

• Providers – ABC Quality

• http://scchildcare.org/departments/abc-quality.aspx

• http://scchildcare.org/providers/become-an-abc-provider.aspx

• http://scchildcare.org/providers/become-an-abc-provider/enrollment-benefits.aspx

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South Dakota

The Division of Child Care Services

• The Division of Child Care Services provides assistance to low income families who need help with child care costs while parents work or attend school. They also provide oversight, technical assistance and support in promoting safe, healthy and caring environments for children through licensing, registration and quality improvement activities. The availability of quality child care is not only important for maintaining a strong workforce; it is vital for the growth and development of healthy children.

• QRIS currently not in place

Sources:

• Quality Care South Dakota – South Dakota Early Childhood Enrichment

• cedcctoolkitsd.com/child-care-options/child-care-quality/

• http://dss.sd.gov/childcare/

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Tennessee

QRIS Name: Tennessee Quality Rating Improvement System

NECPA / Accreditation Role: Extra Points

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: CCR&R coaches (specialized by topic).
• Grants: Tech Goes Home TN grants/equipment.
• Subsidy: 5% to 20% add-on (+15% in deserts).
• Staff: Child Care WAGE$ Tennessee salary supplements ($300 to $6,250), based on education level and eligibility.
• Scholarships: TECTA tuition & academic supports.

Sources:

• Quality Rating Improvement System

• Childcare Tennessee |Quality Rating Improvement System Toolkit

• Child Care Star Rating System

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Texas

QRIS Name: Texas Rising Star

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Mentors (practice-based coaching).
• Grants: Infant Toddler Quality Support Incentive.
• Subsidy: Minimums of 5%, 7%, and 9% above base.
• Awards: Varies by Local Workforce Board.
• Staff: Varies by Local Workforce Board.
• Scholarships: Varies by Local Workforce Board.

Sources:

• Welcome to Child Care Group

• Welcome to Child Care Group

• Texas Rising Star – Texas ITSN

• Texas Rising Star | Texas Child Care Connection

• Texas Rising Star – Texas’ QRIS for ECE Programs

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Utah

QRIS Name: Utah’s Child Care Quality System (CCQS)

NECPA / Accreditation Role: NECPA is directly listed in the CCQS National Accreditation domain. Both the center-based and family-based CCQS frameworks award 20 points for National Early Childhood Program Accreditation.

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

Utah’s current CCQS page separates resources for application periods prior to March 1, 2026 from resources for application periods beginning March 1, 2026. Current CCQS materials continue to identify grants/funding resources and a monthly Enhanced Subsidy Grant for High Quality programs, but many older detailed funding sheets appear only under the prior-period section. The current incentive/support item clearly listed is the Infant Toddler Quality Support Incentive.

Sources:

• https://urpd.usu.edu/about-ccqs

• https://urpd.usu.edu/ou-files/uploads/CCQS%20Fact%20Sheet%202.26.2018.pdf

• https://urpd.usu.edu/ou-files/uploads/Final%20QI%20Center%20%2012-17.pdf

• https://qualitycompendium.org/profile-report

• https://urpd.usu.edu/c-a-c/ccqs-incentive

• https://urpd.usu.edu/ou-files/uploads/CCQS%20QI%20Public%20Policy%2012-4-2017.pdf

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Vermont

QRIS: STARS (Step Ahead Recognition System)

• STARS is Vermont’s quality recognition system for child care, preschool, and afterschool programs. Programs that participate in STARS are stepping ahead — going above and beyond state regulations to provide professional services that meet the needs of children and families.

• Programs that participate in STARS get:

  • A higher reimbursement rate from the Child Care Financial Assistance Program (5% to 40% above base rate) based on the number of stars earned.

  • Bonus payments for each level achieved ranging from $250 to $1,550.

  • Help promoting their participation in STARS (e.g., listing on the STARS website, supply of STARS brochures, and a customized press release).

  • The opportunity to apply for grants open only to programs that have stars or national accreditation.

  • Discounts from some companies.

Sources:

• STARS: Child Development Division | Department for Children and FamiliesSTep Ahead Recognition System | Department for Children and Families

• Child Care Providers | Department for Children and Families

• Vermont Bright Futures Child Care System-Home

• STARS-Brochure.pdf

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Virginia

QRIS Name: The Unified Virginia Quality Birth to Five System (VQB5)

NECPA / Accreditation Role: Accreditation NOT Used in QRIS.

NECPA Recognized: Not Applicable

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Instructional Coaching (Practice Based).
• Grants: STREAMin3 open access curriculum materials.
• Staff: $3,000 per eligible teacher (RecognizeB5).
• Scholarships: Early Childhood Educator scholarships.

Sources:

• Home | Virginia Quality Birth to Five (VQB5)

• Quality Measurement and Improvement (VQB5) | Child Care VA

• Training and Professional Development | Child Care VA

• Virginia Standards for Licensed Child Day Centers

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Washington

QRIS Name: Early Achievers

NECPA / Accreditation Role: Extra Points

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Coaching (relationship-based).
• Grants: $1,000 Needs-Based Grants (materials/curriculum).
• Subsidy: 15% to 20% above base rate at highest tiers.
• Awards: $5,000 to $9,000 Quality Improvement Awards.
• Scholarships: WA Scholarships (CDA/BA) & EA Grants.

Sources:

• Early Achievers – BrightSpark

• For Providers – BrightSpark

• Early Achievers for Families | Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families

• Early Achievers Program – Child Care Aware WA

• Early Achievers Quality Rating and Improvement System | Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families

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West Virginia

Bureau for Children and Families – WV Tiered Reimbursement Program

• A tiered reimbursement system offers higher subsidy payments to programs that demonstrate they meet higher standards of care. Programs may apply for Tier II or Tier III reimbursement rates if specific higher quality standards are met. A center may receive one of three tiered rates based on the age of the children in care and the program’s tier level.

• QRIS currently not in place

Sources:

• Child Care | Explore Child Care Legislation in West Virginia — West Virginia Science and Technology Policy Initiative

• Child Care Quality Rating and Improvement System Advisory council

• WV Pre-K CQI Guidance Manual-2024.pdf

• https://acf.gov/sites/default/files/documents/occ/quality_rating.pdf

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Wisconsin

QRIS Name: YoungStar

NECPA / Accreditation Role: QRIS Alignment

NECPA Recognized: Yes

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: YoungStar Connect coaches.
• Grants: Micro-grants for health/safety & materials.
• Subsidy: Base subsidy unlocks exclusively at 2-5 stars.
• Awards: Child Care Counts (amounts vary).
• Staff: $400 to $1,200 (REWARD stipends).
• Scholarships: T.E.A.C.H. (75%-100% tuition).

Sources:

• https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/youngstar

• https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/youngstar/providers/apply

• https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/youngstar/providers/faqs

• https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/files/youngstar/pdf/policies/accreditation-policy.pdf

• YoungStar – Wisconsin’s Child Care Quality Rating and Improvement System

• YoungStar For Providers – Rating Criteria and Tips for Achieving Highest Possible Rating

• YoungStar Policies

• Home – YoungStar Connect

• https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/files/youngstar/pdf/evaluation-criteria/2017-eval-criteria/2017-gcc-evaluation-criteria.pdf

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Wyoming

WY Quality Counts

• WY Quality Counts helps Wyoming parents and child care providers identify and create quality learning experiences today, which helps ensure a bright, innovative and viable workforce for the future.

• WY Quality Counts’ mission is to raise awareness about why quality child care matters for Wyoming’s children, their families and our future. The program promotes quality education opportunities, preparing children for success by using developmentally-appropriate teaching methods and materials to develop cognitive, language, social/emotional and motor skills. WY Quality Counts also provides funding for professionals in early childhood education.

  • Education, training and professional development are critical for a child care provider to be the best they can be. That’s why we offer funding in the form of scholarships and grants. As a 100% state-funded program, WY Quality Counts’ resources are subject to availability of funds. All scholarship and grant applications are due to the Department of Workforce Services between 45 and 110 days prior to the start of your training, degree or certificate program.

• By making life easier for child care providers, WY Quality Counts can help you feel empowered, energized and more free to do what you love: lead, teach and nurture the kids of Wyoming.

• QRIS currently not in place

Sources:

• WY Quality Counts – Wyoming Department of Workforce Services

• Family Corner – Wyoming Department of Workforce Services

• Scholarships – Wyoming Department of Workforce Services

• Grants – Wyoming Department of Workforce Services

• Wyoming’s Early Learning Standards — Wyoming Early Childhood Professional Learning Collaborative

• http://www.wyqualitycounts.org/

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District of Columbia

QRIS Name: Capital Quality

NECPA / Accreditation Role: Accreditation NOT Used in QRIS.

NECPA Recognized: Not Applicable

Provider Benefits Snapshot: 

• TA: Quality Facilitators (3-8 hrs/mo) & CoP sessions.
• Grants: $250 educational materials vouchers (up to $750/yr).
• Subsidy: $8.59/day above base for infants in High Quality tier.
• Staff: Pay Equity Fund provides massive direct salary supplements.
• Scholarships: DC LEAD / CDA scholarships (100% tuition).

Sources:

• https://osse.dc.gov/page/capital-quality-qris

• Coaching to Improve Child Care Quality in the District of Columbia: Perspectives of Community Leaders and Coaches

• Capital Quality (QRIS) | osse

• Early Learning – Grants and Funding | osse

• https://osse.dc.gov/service/early-learning-funding-opportunities

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Department of Defense

Child Care Aware of America

• Child Care Aware® of America operates a Fee Assistance Program that serves military and non-military families.

• National Early Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA) is recognized by the DoD for either on-base child care or for the DoD’s Off-Base Child Care Military Fee Assistance Program

• National accreditation is an additional criteria used to determine the quality of a child care program. Family child care homes and child care centers may pursue accreditation in order to increase the quality of their care. Accredited providers must meet higher standards than those set forth by licensing. These programs offer the kind of care, attention, and educational activities parents look for in quality child care programs, in addition to offering activities and experiences that will aid in a child’s growth and development and that will help prepare them for school.

• In order for child care centers to meet MCCYN requirements, they must meet OMCC criteria AND be accredited by one of the approved national accreditation agencies listed below:

  • National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)

  • National Accreditation Commission (NAC)

  • National Early Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA)

  • Council on Accreditation (COA)

  • AdvancED Accreditation

Sources:

• Access to Quality Child Care Best Practices

• Home | MCC Central

• About Military Child Care | MCC Central

• Work with Military Children | MCC Central

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