Virginia Star Quality Initiative (VSQI)
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 Star Quality Rater.
Why VSQI?
- 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
- The Star Rating acts as a consumer education tool to improve information available to families
- Free VSQI training opportunities will be available to your program
What does the VSQI process look like?
- Receive VSQI Orientation
- Complete Application and Memorandum of Agreement
- Complete VSQI Documentation
- Receive VSQI Observation from Star Quality Rater
- Star Rating is posted to the Smart Beginnings Web Site
- Star Quality Mentor will be assigned
- Renewal of Rating takes place every 2 years
What are the standards for VSQI?
The State Standards are:
- Standard 1: Education, Qualifications, and Training of Staff (Assessed by Documentation)
- Standard 2: Interactions (Assessed by Observation using CLASS Instrument)
- Standard 3: Structure (Assessed by Documentation)
- Standard 4: Environment, Instruction, and Transition Practices (Assessed by Observation using Environmental Scales and Documentation)
What is the Mentor’s role?
- Assist the director with development and execution of a Quality Improvement Plan (QIP) based on the VSQI Summary Report
- Assist with acquiring training, materials, equipment, curriculum
- Support programs in obtaining higher quality
How many local programs are in VSQI now?
Currently 30 programs have Star Ratings in Newport News and Hampton.
Who is eligible to participate in VSQI?
All early childhood programs, including Virginia Preschool Initiative classrooms, private and faith-based centers, for profit centers, non-profit centers, and Head Start programs, are eligible to apply. Virginia is currently in a VSQI Family Child Care Home Demonstration.
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. Or if you are interested in becoming a Star Quality Rater or Star Quality Mentor, contact Hilari Devine.