Rating Components

In the Qualistar Rating process, programs are evaluated on five different quality components. These components include:

Learning Environment
Points are awarded based on average scores obtained through ECERS-R/ITERS or FDCRS Classroom Environment Tool (Based on the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-Revised (ECERS-R) ©1998, Harms, Clifford & Cryer and the Infant/Toddler Environment Rating Scale (ITERS) © 1990 Harms, Clifford & Cryer)
Score for component: 0-10 points

Family Partnerships
Points are awarded for information on communication, collaboration, and family involvement opportunities collected through family questionnaires and program documentation. Need 60% return rate for centers and 80% for homes on Family Questionnaires.
Score for component: 0-10 points

Training and Education
Points are awarded to individual child care providers based on formal training and experience with separate requirements for center administrators and child care providers/home providers.
Score for component: 0-10 points (Centers),
0-7 points (Family Homes)

Adult-to-Child Ratios and Group Size
Points are awarded on adult: child ratio and overall classroom group size. For centers, ratios are scored at 0, 4, 6, or 8 points. 0– 2 points are given for group size.
For family homes, ratios are scored at 0, 5, 6, 7 or 8 points.
0-2 points given for group size.
Score for component: 0-10 points

Accreditation
Points are awarded for receiving and maintaining program accreditation through an approved organization
Score for component: 0 or 2 points

Total Points required for each star level:

Centers
Provisional = 0-9 points OR Learning Environment Score of 0
Star 1 = 10-17 points Star 2 = 18-25 points
Star 3 = 26-33 points Star 4 = 34-42 points

Homes
Provisional = 0-9 points OR Learning Environment score of 0
Star 1 = 10-16 points Star 2 = 17-23 points
Star 3 = 24-30 points Star 4 = 31-39 points

Once the program has received a baseline rating (provisional to 4 star scale), a Quality Performance Profile is created. This document outlines the program’s strengths and areas for improvement, providing them with a detailed action plan and timeline for improvement.