Early Achievers Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented the opportunity to update our process for measuring quality improvement. Our state’s strong foundation allows us to move in a different direction to measure quality in Early Achievers by eliminating the Environment Rating Scale (ERS) and Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS) in data collection. We are developing a new process with an updated system to measure quality based on the input from community, careful consideration of lessons learned from Early Achievers over the years, and the latest research about child care quality and targeted universalism. In the updated system, ERS and CLASS will continue to be useful tools for coaches to use to guide developmentally appropriate practice and continuous quality improvement, but they will not be used as part of quality recognition and rating. To learn more about the tools we will be using, check out the recorded webinars below.

Our updated system will use Coaching Companion along with existing coaching interactions and virtual quality recognition. Coaching Companion is an online platform and a resource that has been in use in Early Achievers for many years, although we have made several recent improvements. A Coaching Companion app is being developed to work on most smartphones to simplify recording and uploading videos in the learning environment. Using focused video for both quality recognition and coaching increases transparency and understanding of the quality improvement process. We want to expand the use of Coaching Companion to as many providers as possible because we believe that when providers can see their work in action and receive coaching with a trusted early learning professional, learning is enhanced. Access to a coach will be a continued resource to providers participating in Early Achievers.

We have heard that providers want a more flexible system and more opportunities to showcase their strengths; they do not want a cookie-cutter Quality Recognition Improvement System (QRIS). Providers will have multiple pathways to reach higher levels. This includes videos demonstrating their practice and making a virtual program profile.

Coaching is a key strategy for quality improvement and has been a key resource for providers throughout their quality journey, and especially during the pandemic. For now, to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19, coaches will continue to connect with providers through virtual methods such as phone, Zoom, and Coaching Companion. Coaches will continue to provide comprehensive coaching services to promote successful early learning practices, which will include business supports. They will continue to provide all traditional provider supports and now they can help providers prepare their videos for quality recognition as well as provide feedback for quality improvement.