Program resources

QRIS

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

NECPA role

Extra Points

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• alabamaqualitystars.org
• alabamaqualitystars.org: Alabama Quality STARS Program Guidelines Revised April 2024 (PDF)
• ccrc-alabama.org

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

Learn more

• threadalaska.org
• threadalaska.org: financial support
• seedalaska.org

QRIS

Quality First

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• TA: Coordinators, Coaches, & Child Care Health Consultants.
• 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.

Learn more

• qualityfirstaz.com: pursuing quality
• qualityfirstaz.com
• firstthingsfirst.org
• childfamilyresources.org

QRIS

Better Beginnings

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

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

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• arbetterbeginnings.com
• Better_Beginnings_Tiered_Quality_Rating_and_Improvement_System_(2nd_Round)_-_Markup_151344.pdf (PDF)

QRIS

Quality Counts California (QCC)

NECPA role

Extra Points

NECPA recognized

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

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• cde.ca.gov: rt
• cde.ca.gov: csppqrisblockgrant.asp
• Funding – Finance & Grants (CA Dept of Education)
• Quality Counts California (CA) – Quality Rating and Improvement System (CA Dept of Education)

QRIS

Colorado Shines Quality Rating and Improvement System

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• TA: Free QI Navigators & on-site coaching.
• 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.

Learn more

• coloradoshines.force.com
• Colorado Shines | Home
• Quality Initiatives | Colorado Department of Early Childhood
• Kids Strong Start – Colorado Springs, CO Family Friendly Initiative
• denverearlychildhood.org
• qualistar.org

QRIS

Elevate

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

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

Provider benefits

• TA: WBDC TA & OEC content training.
• Grants: WBDC grants for tech and facility needs.
• Subsidy: 25% increase for centers; 10-12.5% for FCCs.
• Staff: State exploring wage boosts via new $300M endowment.
• Scholarships: State covers accreditation fees.

Learn more

• ctearlychildhood.org: qris
• ctcare4kids.com
• ctearlychildhood.org: early care and education programs and services in connecticu (PDF)
• ctearlychildhood.org: 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
• ccacregistry.org (PDF)

QRIS

Delaware Stars for Early Success

NECPA role

Accreditation NOT Used in QRIS.

NECPA recognized

Not Applicable

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• Delaware Stars for Early Success (DE Stars) – My Child DE
• Licensing – My Child DE
• Trainings – My Child DE
• Quality – My Child DE
• dhss.delaware.gov

QRIS

Gold Seal/ Guiding Stars / Thrive by 5

NECPA role

Extra Points / Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• myflfamilies.com: goldseal
• Quality Checklist for Child Care (PDF)
• Child Care Licensure | Florida DCF
• floridaearlylearning.com
• myflfamilies.com: goldseal process

QRIS

Quality Rated

NECPA role

Extra Points

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.
• Scholarships: DECAL Scholars (pays 80% tuition).

Learn more

• qualityrated.decal.ga.gov: Default
• qualityrated.decal.ga.gov: Help
• qualityrated.decal.ga.gov: PM ProgramManual (PDF)
• Request Form, please click HERE. (PDF)

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

Learn more

• humanservices.hawaii.gov: qris
• humanservices.hawaii.gov: What is QRIS 7.18.12 (PDF)
• childcareaware.org

QRIS

Steps to Quality

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• idahostars.org
• idahostars.org
• idahostars.org
• idahostars.org

QRIS

ExceleRate Illinois

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• Home – Excelerate Illinois
• Circles of Quality – Excelerate Illinois
• Important Links and Information – Excelerate Illinois

QRIS

Paths to Quality(TM)

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• in.gov: 2554
• FSSA: Carefinder: Professional Development
• FSSA: Paths to QUALITY: Home

QRIS

Iowa Quality for Kids (IQ4K)

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

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

QRIS

Links to Quality

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

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

Learn more

• Quality Measurement | KanCare
• Providers | KanCare

QRIS

Kentucky All STARS

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

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

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

Learn more

• Child Care Facility Licensing
• Early Childhood
• qrslouisiana.org: incentives
• qrslouisiana.org: faqs
• qrslouisiana.org: how to get your stars

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

Learn more

• 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

QRIS

Maryland EXCELS

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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).

Learn more

• marylandexcels.org: commitment to quality
• Child Care Scholarship Program | Division of Early Childhood
• Regional Licensing Offices | Division of Early Childhood
• mfnemployerchildcaretoolkit.com
• earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org: maryland accreditation
• earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org: accreditation support fund
• earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org: occ 278 national accreditation oct2016 (PDF)
• marylandexcels.org: Child Care Center Standards March 2014 5 (PDF)

QRIS

Massachusetts Continuous Quality Improvement System (MA CQIS)

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• Promoting High-Quality Early Education and Care | Mass.gov
• Promoting High-Quality Early Education and Care | Mass.gov
• Child Care Program Licensing | Mass.gov
• Level 1Documentation Planner (PDF)
• mass.gov: department of early education and care

QRIS

Great Start to Quality

NECPA role

Accreditation NOT Used in QRIS.

NECPA recognized

Not Applicable

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• How It Works – Great Start to Quality
• Great Start to Quality – Find High Quality Child Care in Michigan
• Enhancing Quality – Great Start to Quality

QRIS

Parent Aware

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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).

Learn more

• parentaware.org
• parentaware.org: programs
• parentaware.org: benefits for rated programs
• parentaware.org: apr resources

QRIS

MS Elevate QSS

NECPA role

Accreditation NOT Used in QRIS.

NECPA recognized

Not Applicable

Provider benefits

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

Learn more

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

QRIS

Quality Assurance Report (QAR)

NECPA role

Accreditation NOT Used in QRIS.

NECPA recognized

Not Applicable

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• dss.mo.gov
• senate.mo.gov
• 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

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.

Learn more

• STARS To Quality | Raise MT
• Professional Development | Raise MT
• STARS Program | The Nurturing Center | Montana
• Incentive Program –
• STARS Center Standards (PDF)

QRIS

Step Up to Quality

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• Home – Step Up to Quality
• education.ne.gov: overview
• education.ne.gov: financial support
• Resources for participating providers – Step Up to Quality
• Educator Certification – Nebraska Department of Education

QRIS

Nevada Silver State Stars QRIS

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• QRIS Home
• Grant Information
• 2024 Purple Star School Application (PDF)

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.

Learn more

• dhhs.nh.gov: index
• dhhs.nh.gov: quality

QRIS

Grow NJ Kids

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• grownjkids.gov
• grownjkids.gov: Providers Educators
• grownjkids.gov: 3, 4 and 5 Star Rating Point Requirements

QRIS

FOCUS

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• 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
• cyfd.org

QRIS

QUALITYstarsNY

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

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

Provider benefits

• 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).

Learn more

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

QRIS

Pathways to the Stars

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes (Seeking 5 star alignment)

Provider benefits

• 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).

Learn more

• 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

QRIS

Bright & Early North Dakota

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

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

Provider benefits

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

Learn more

• 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 (PDF)

QRIS

Step Up To Quality

NECPA role

Extra Points

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• 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 (PDF)

QRIS

The Stars Program

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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).

Learn more

• okdhs.org: childcareSTARS
• okdhs.org: starsfaqmain
• okdhs.org: applyforstars

QRIS

Oregon Spark

NECPA role

QRIS Under Redesign

NECPA recognized

Reviewing Redesign Alignment

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• 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

QRIS

Keystone STARS

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• dhs.pa.gov
• Keystone STARS Quality Initiative | Department of Human Services | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
• Keystone STARS – The Pennsylvania Key

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.

Learn more

• brightstars.org
• brightstars.org: frequently asked questions
• Early Childhood Education | RI Department of Education
• BrightStars RI Rating System | Quality Improvement Resources

QRIS

ABC Quality

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

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

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• ABC Quality Rating & Improvement System – SC Child Care Services
• Providers – ABC Quality
• scchildcare.org: abc quality
• scchildcare.org: become an abc provider
• scchildcare.org: enrollment benefits

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.

There is currently no statewide QRIS.

Learn more

• Quality Care South Dakota – South Dakota Early Childhood Enrichment
• cedcctoolkitsd.com/child-care-options/child-care-quality/
• dss.sd.gov

QRIS

Tennessee Quality Rating Improvement System

NECPA role

Extra Points

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• Quality Rating Improvement System
• Childcare Tennessee |Quality Rating Improvement System Toolkit
• Child Care Star Rating System

QRIS

Texas Rising Star

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• 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

QRIS

Utah’s Child Care Quality System (CCQS)

NECPA 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

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.

Learn more

• urpd.usu.edu: about ccqs
• urpd.usu.edu: CCQS Fact Sheet 2.26.2018 (PDF)
• urpd.usu.edu: Final QI Center 12 17 (PDF)
• qualitycompendium.org
• urpd.usu.edu: ccqs incentive
• urpd.usu.edu: CCQS QI Public Policy 12 4 2017 (PDF)

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.

Learn more

• STARS: Child Development Division | Department for Children and FamiliesSTep Ahead Recognition System |
• STARS: Child Development Division | Department for Children and FamiliesSTep Ahead Recognition System |
• Child Care Providers | Department for Children and Families
• Vermont Bright Futures Child Care System-Home
• STARS-Brochure.pdf (PDF)

QRIS

The Unified Virginia Quality Birth to Five System (VQB5)

NECPA role

Accreditation NOT Used in QRIS.

NECPA recognized

Not Applicable

Provider benefits

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

Learn more

• 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 (PDF)

QRIS

Early Achievers

NECPA role

Extra Points

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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.

Learn more

• 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

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. There is currently no statewide QRIS.

Learn more

• 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 (PDF)
• WV Pre-K CQI Guidance Manual-2024.pdf (PDF)
• acf.gov (PDF)

QRIS

YoungStar

NECPA role

QRIS Alignment

NECPA recognized

Yes

Provider benefits

• 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).

Learn more

• dcf.wisconsin.gov: youngstar
• dcf.wisconsin.gov: apply
• dcf.wisconsin.gov: faqs
• dcf.wisconsin.gov: accreditation policy (PDF)
• YoungStar For Providers – Rating Criteria and Tips for Achieving Highest Possible Rating
• YoungStar Policies
• Home – YoungStar Connect
• dcf.wisconsin.gov: 2017 gcc evaluation criteria (PDF)

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.

There is currently no statewide QRIS.

Learn more

• 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
• wyqualitycounts.org

QRIS

Capital Quality

NECPA role

Accreditation NOT Used in QRIS.

NECPA recognized

Not Applicable

Provider benefits

• 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).

Learn more

• osse.dc.gov: capital quality qris
• Coaching to Improve Child Care Quality in the District of Columbia: Perspectives of Community Leaders and Coaches (PDF)
• Early Learning – Grants and Funding | osse
• osse.dc.gov: early learning funding opportunities

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

Learn more

• Access to Quality Child Care Best Practices (PDF)
• Home | MCC Central
• About Military Child Care | MCC Central
• Work with Military Children | MCC Central