Quality Assistance Program

In July 2005, Preschool Partners began a project to improve the overall level of quality in early childhood programs on the Virginia Peninsula (Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson).

Who is eligible? Child care centers, family day homes and preschools are all invited to participate. The only requirements are:

1. A desire to better serve children and families
2. A willingness to engage in a one-year self-evaluation and improvement process.

How does it work? Participating programs are paired with a volunteer mentor who will:

• Help the provider conduct a self-study using the following scales:
  -- Environment Ratings Scales
  • Early Childhood Environment Rating Scales (ECERS)
  • Infant/Toddler Environment Rating Scales (ITERS)
  • Family Child Care Environment Rating Scales (FCCERS)
• Advise on how to accomplish improvements and assist in development of an ongoing plan for quality
• Provide information about Quality Rating Systems
• Familiarize the provider with the observation process and help the staff prepare for a visit by an independent observer

What is the cost? There is no charge for the services of the mentor. Preschool Partners also donates educational materials and supplies, as determined by:

1. The needs of the center or home
2. The availability of funds

Who are the mentors? Mentors are all experienced early childhood professionals. The team includes pre-k teachers, preschool directors, elementary school principals, school psychologists and early childhood consultants.

What is covered in ECERS?

• Space and Furnishings
• Personal Care Routines
• Language-Reasoning
• Play and Learning Activities
• Staff-Child Interactions
• Program Structure
• Staff Development and Partnering with Parents

To send an email inquiry for more information, click here for Hilari Devine or call her at 757-240-2731 or 757-508-4516.