Virginia Star Quality Initiative(VSQI)/Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS)

What is the Virginia Star Quality Initiative ?
The Virginia Star Quality Initiative was created to provide a consistent way to distinguish the level of quality in early care and education programs, allowing parents to make more informed choices when selecting child care.  Program participation in this initiative is voluntary.  One, two, three four or five stars are awarded to programs based on achievement in four quality standards.  Participating programs will be rated every two years by a state trained rater.

WHY QRIS?

• This researched based system rates the quality of your program using defined state standards.
• Your program will be placed on a  path for quality improvement.
• A network of support and outreach from early childhood professionals will be established.
• Incentives are linked to achieving and maintaining quality standards.
• The Star rating acts as a consumer education tool to improve information available to families.

What are the standards for QRIS?
Measurable program standards within Virginia’s QRIS include:

• Standard 1: Education, qualifications, and training of staff (documentation review)
• Standard 2: Interactions (assess using Pre-K CLASS instrument)
• Standard 3: Structure ( assess staff/child ratio)
• Standard 4: Environment and Instruction (assess using appropriate environment rating scale)

What happens after the rating?

• A star rating is assigned and posted to the Virginia Star Quality Initiative website.
• The rating is only the first step of the QRIS process. Programs are given tools to assist with quality improvement.
• A state trained mentor will be assigned to assist the program with quality improvement.

What is the Mentor’s role?

• The Mentor helps the director develop and execute a quality improvement plan.
• Assistance with acquiring materials, equipment, curriculum and training is offered.
• Guidance for the program to higher STAR ratings at subsequent observations is provided.

How many local programs are in QRIS now?

7 local programs were awarded Star ratings in Spring 2009!

• Newport News – 3 Preschools, 1 Head Start Center, 1 Child Care Center
• Hampton – 1 Preschool, 1 Child Care Center

Currently 24 additional programs are participating!

Who is eligible to participate in QRIS?

All early childhood programs, including public schools, private and faith-based centers, and home-based programs, are eligible to apply.

If you would like to participate in the initiative to improve the quality of your early childhood care and education services, click here for Hilari Devine or call her at 757-240-2731.