Programs that achieve and maintain a 4-to 5-star rating will be assigned to Continuing Quality. Programs at this level are focused on maintaining their high-quality practices. The goal of this level is to provide an ongoing level of support to help programs sustain their quality.
All Head Start programs will be assigned to Continuing Quality. Head Start programs at this level receive embedded supports as part of the Head Start model and will focus on increasing and maintaining quality practices.
Participants with existing internal quality supports (e.g., coaching, health and safety support, etc.) that have achieved a 3-star or higher rating may opt in to Continuing Quality.
At the Continuing Quality level of support, coaching is available upon request, but coaching hours are not required. As you work to continue your quality practices, you can request additional help from a coach when you need it.
Coordinators will help along the way as programs participate. They will assist with:
Achieving Quality programs will receive ongoing support from a specially trained health professional. CCHCs provide recommendations and technical assistance in areas like nutrition, physical activity, disease prevention and more.
Participants at the Continuing Quality level of support receive funding for staff recognition.
5-star
$1,000 per staff
4-star
$500 per staff
*The number of staff in the following roles are used to calculate total incentive amount: Director, Assistant Director, Teacher and Assistant Teacher.
Some 3-star programs with existing internal supports may be eligible to opt-in to the Continuing Quality level. Programs that have been approved for the opt in will maintain the same financial incentives as the Achieving Quality level.
Approximately every two years, programs will receive an assessment and star rating. Assessment defines a clear picture of each program—what is great and opportunities to do even better.
On-site assessment tools used to measure quality care:
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