The landscape of early childhood education is constantly evolving, and North Carolina is at the forefront of ensuring high-quality care through its Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS). But What Is The Qris In North Carolina Child Care Programs? This article will delve into the details of North Carolina’s QRIS, its modernization efforts, and what it means for families and child care professionals.
What is the Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS)?
The Quality Rating and Improvement System, or QRIS, is a framework designed to assess, improve, and communicate the quality of child care programs. North Carolina was a national leader when it launched its QRIS in 1999, establishing a star rating system for early childhood education facilities. Think of it as a tool that helps child care programs continuously enhance their services, and empowers parents to make informed choices when selecting care for their children. The fundamental goal of QRIS is to improve outcomes for children by focusing on the quality of early childhood education they receive. This quality is crucial because research consistently shows that children who experience high-quality early learning environments are more likely to succeed in school and life.
The Importance of Quality Early Childhood Education
High-quality early childhood education is not just about babysitting; it’s about providing enriching experiences that foster healthy development and build a strong foundation for learning. This relies heavily on skilled early childhood teachers who understand how to support children’s developmental needs in collaboration with their families. QRIS is designed to support and elevate these teachers and programs.
QRIS Modernization in North Carolina: Adapting to Evolving Needs
Recognizing the need to stay current with best practices and address the evolving needs of children and families, the North Carolina Child Care Commission has been actively working to modernize the QRIS since February 2023. This modernization, mandated by Session Law 2023-40, is a significant undertaking that involves listening to and incorporating feedback from early childhood professionals, families, communities, and businesses across the state.
Gathering Input and Shaping the Future of QRIS
The Commission’s approach to QRIS modernization has been highly collaborative. In 2023, they conducted numerous in-person listening sessions and webinars, along with surveys and dedicated email channels, to gather input. This extensive outreach involved over 1800 North Carolina early childhood education professionals, ensuring that the proposed changes are informed by real-world experiences and needs.
Key Recommendations for QRIS Reform
Based on national research, trends, outcomes, and the valuable input received, the Commission developed key recommendations for QRIS reform. These recommendations aim to enhance the system and make it more effective in promoting quality child care. Some of the key proposed changes include:
- Multiple Pathways to Quality: Offering child care programs a choice of three distinct pathways to demonstrate quality and achieve a 2- to 5-star rated license. This provides flexibility and recognizes the diverse approaches programs may take to achieve quality.
- Updated Education Standards: Revising education standards for early childhood educators to offer more options and pathways for professional development and qualification. This aims to support educators in gaining and demonstrating the necessary skills.
- Enhanced Standards for Continuous Improvement and Engagement: Adding standards for both educators and facilities that focus on continuous quality improvement practices and family/community engagement. This recognizes the importance of ongoing development and strong partnerships between child care programs, families, and the wider community.
Legislative Support for QRIS Modernization
The commitment to QRIS modernization is further solidified by Session Law 2024-34, signed by Governor Roy Cooper on July 8, 2024. This law formally established the three pathways for star ratings and directed the Commission to proceed with rulemaking to implement these pathways. It also included provisions to ensure a smooth transition during the rulemaking process.
Key Provisions During Rulemaking
While the rulemaking process is underway, several important provisions are in effect:
- Extension of Hold Harmless: Star rated license assessments and reassessments for existing licensed child care providers are currently conducted only at the provider’s request. This provides stability and reduces potential disruptions during the transition. However, star rated license assessments remain mandatory for new child care programs.
- Accreditation Licensure Pathway: Child care programs that are currently accredited by approved accrediting bodies have the option to move to a 3- or 5-star license, if they have not already achieved this level. This provides a streamlined pathway for accredited programs to be recognized within the QRIS framework. Programs can request this through their licensing consultant and by providing proof of accreditation.
- Updated Program Assessment Tool: As of February 1, 2025, child care facilities requesting program assessments or reassessments are using the Environment Rating Scale – Third Edition. This updated tool includes enhanced measures for language and interaction, areas identified as crucial by early childhood professionals during the feedback sessions. The updated Environment Rating Scale includes versions for family child care homes, infant/toddler classrooms, and preschool classrooms, ensuring appropriate assessment across different settings.
Engaging in the Rulemaking Process
The Commission is currently actively involved in the rulemaking process to fully define and implement the recommended changes outlined in the QRIS Legislative Report. This process is crucial for translating the recommendations into concrete rules and regulations that will govern the modernized QRIS.
Resources for Parents and Professionals
To ensure that everyone has access to information about the QRIS modernization, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has provided several resources:
- Webinars: Informational webinars have been conducted for both parents and child care professionals to explain the proposed changes to the Star Rating System and QRIS modernization efforts. These webinars are available in English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for a wider audience. Materials from these webinars, including slides, are also available online.
- Pathways in Brief: A concise summary of the different pathways within the modernized QRIS is available to help programs understand the options available to them.
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): A comprehensive FAQ document addresses common questions about QRIS modernization, providing clear and accessible answers to help navigate the changes.
Conclusion: A Continued Commitment to Quality Child Care in North Carolina
North Carolina’s QRIS modernization plan represents a significant step forward in the state’s ongoing commitment to high-quality early childhood education. By actively seeking input from stakeholders, incorporating research-based practices, and adapting to the evolving needs of children and families, North Carolina is strengthening its QRIS to better serve its youngest citizens. Understanding what is the QRIS in North Carolina child care programs and the current modernization efforts is crucial for both parents seeking the best care for their children and for child care professionals dedicated to providing excellent early learning experiences. This ongoing process aims to ensure that North Carolina remains a leader in early childhood education, providing a strong foundation for the future success of its children.
For any questions regarding QRIS Modernization, individuals are encouraged to reach out via email to [email protected].
