Quality Rating and Improvement Systems (QRIS)

We support states’ efforts to raise the bar of quality in early learning and development programs through quality rating and improvement systems (QRIS). We work with state leaders to clarify goals, identify needs, and offer expertise in the development of program standards. Our work at state and national levels sets the bar for best practices in center-based, home-based, and school-based early childhood education programs. The framework of Whole Leadership, inclusive of administrative leadership, pedagogical leadership, and leadership essentials, guides our work as we promote administrator qualifications as a stand-alone standard within QRIS standards.

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We rigorously inform and improve statewide quality rating and improvement systems in Illinois and across the United States.

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Achieve quality improvement goals.

Contact us for expertise on embedding program evaluation (PAS/BAS) and an online National Director Credential (Aim4Excellence) into your state’s QRIS.

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Project Anchor Consultation and Training Options

Video Interview Reliability Check

Project anchors conduct a PAS or BAS assessment, videotaping the interview portion. The project anchor then submits a video of the PAS or BAS interview along with a completed assessment book for review by a national anchor. The national anchor will provide written and/or verbal feedback on interview techniques and interpretation of responses.

On-site Reliability Check

Project anchors contact the McCormick Center when they would like an on-site reliability check. The project anchor arranges the visit and a national anchor will accompany them for a PAS or BAS assessment. The national anchor will observe interview and provide written and/or verbal feedback on interview techniques and interpretation of responses. The national anchor and state/project anchor will review documentation together.

Recertification Training for Project Assessors

In addition to offering a Recertification webinar, project assessors can receive more intensive, personalized, face-to-face, two-day training to maintain certification. Content may include reviewing the Additional Notes, observing and rating video-taped and live interviews, reviewing documentation, interview practice,  item specific workshops, and an assessment of learning.

PAS or BAS Refresher Training

Individuals who achieved reliability on the PAS or BAS and have not conducted assessments since that time can receive a refresher on the tool(s). This training will provide a review of PAS or BAS items and the Additional Notes, the assessment protocol, and interview tips.

Documentation Review Consultation

Project anchors who would like more training on reviewing documentation arrange a program visit. A national anchor accompanies the project anchor to the site and they individually review documentation and rate indicators. After reviewing all 25 items they compare and discuss ratings. The national anchor provides feedback to support future assessments.

The Business Administration Scale (BAS) is a beneficial tool for family child care providers who want to review their policies and business practices for improvement. The BAS allows a provider to systematically access the strengths and challenges of their program. The utilization of this scale provides quality feedback to guide a program's continuous improvement in their written policies or guidelines and business practices.
Barbara Bredall-Searle, Suzanne Glenn, and Michelle Malloneé Long, The Pennsylvania Key

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