FAQ

SDQPI is a systemic approach to assessing, improving and communicating the level of quality in early care and education programs.

Participating in Quality Improvement means that your program is given individualized support tailored to the needs of the site and the site leader. It is focused on how to support staff working directly with children to continually enhance and improve adult-child learning and development interactions and opportunities, maximizing each child’s potential.

Providers may select to participate in Rating activities to obtain a 1-5 tiered rating that indicates the level of quality offered at the site. The System in QRIS (Quality Rating and Improvement System) involves engagement in both, Quality and Rating activities, focused on Improvements. SDQPI helps providers keep up to date with "best practices" in early learning and identify areas for continued improvement through Quality Improvement Plans.

Child Observation

• Highly skilled teachers use child observation to identify child strengths and opportunities for growth, and tailor their lesson planning to the unique needs of every child

Developmental and Health Screenings

• Screenings for developmental, health and emotional needs help support appropriate growth and development for children

Qualified Teachers

• Qualified teachers are critical to the learning and development for the young children in their care

Effective Teacher-Child Interactions

• High quality teacher-child interactions not only help children establish healthy relationships, but they also lead to overall school readiness and increased academic success

Adult-to-Child Ratios and Group Sizes

• The number of children enrolled in a particular learning environment should be limited so that students can create friendships, receive attention from the adults in the room, and have adequate materials to learn with and share

Safe and Engaging Program Environment

• Environments that have adequate learning supplies and toys also engage young children to use their creativity and experience to learn new concepts develop their minds, bodies, and friendships to become better prepared for kindergarten and life

Qualified Early Learning Center Directors

• Early care and education programs require targeted education and professional development for their leaders

When you join SDQPI you will receive resources, educational support and get rated as you become ready.

Also, when you join, you:

• Gain access to local and state resources and supports
• Continuously improve the quality of your early learning and care program
• Provide positive outcomes for children

We recommend you start with the No-Cost Quality Journey orientation to learn more about the elements of quality and opportunities to improve in areas that matter most to you and the families you serve. To sign up, please contact us.