Quality Programming

Quality Programming

Colorado Shines

Colorado Shines is a way to improve the quality at your program, including early childhood centers and family child care homes.  Additionally, it is a way for families to find quality early childhood programs that meet their individual child care needs.

Visit ColoradoShines.com

We are committed to providing training and technical assistance to help your program reach its Colorado Shines rating goals.

There are other ways that programs can improve their quality that are called “Crosswalks” or “Alternative Pathways.”  These are ratings that have been given an equivalent in the Colorado Shines rating system (e.g., NAFCC, NAEYC) and include pathways for school districts with preschool programs.

If you are interested in accessing supports to reach the next level in Colorado Shines, contact Carrie Nelson, Foundations Early Childhood Manager, to discuss available options for your program.

Level 1

These programs are licensed by the State of Colorado and meet basic health and safety standards.

IREE, the local Licensing entity supports centers with Level 1 needs. To learn more, visit the IREE website.

Level 2

These programs meet the requirements of Level 1 and are taking specific steps to improve their quality, like completing additional training courses and developing a Quality Improvement Plan.

Level 3-5

These quality programs are evaluated using 5 rating categories.  Not all high quality programs look the same; one may focus on providing training for their staff, while another may invest in a stronger learning environment.

Our newsletters are monthly and provide early childhood information, professional development opportunities, and information for families.