Quality Start OC Quality Rating & Improvement System (QRIS) is a voluntary program designed to support, promote and improve the quality of early learning programs throughout Orange County. Early learning programs are assessed according to a rating matrix and sites are assigned a rating between 1-5 stars.
Star ratings will help programs to focus on areas for improvement, and provide valuable information for parents seeking early learning programs for their children. Participation in the QualityStart OC QRIS is voluntary. Programs that elect to participate do so to demonstrate their commitment to quality, and their dedication to keeping abreast of current research and best-practices in early learning.
How are Star Ratings are determined?
The QRIS Rating Matrix for centers or the QRIS Rating Matrix for Family Child Care is used to measure the following core areas:
- Child Development and School Readiness
- What curriculum, assessments, and developmental screenings are being used, and how are individual children's growth and development needs met?
- Teachers and Teaching
- Do teachers support children's growth and development through high quality interactions, intentional planning, and supportive environments? Do teachers have education and experience in early childhood?
- Program and Environment
- Is the environment safe, is it designed to provide optimal learning experiences, how are families included and supported, and do the teacher/child ratios meet high quality standards?
