On April 24, 2021, our pilot cohort earned their certificates for successfully completing the Quality Improvement Specialist Pipeline Project. Selected among a highly competitive pool of applicants, these 13 early childhood leaders were the first participants to take part in the 20-hour certificate program, offered by QUALITYstarsNY in partnership with our colleagues at the New York Early Childhood Professional Development Institute.
Launched in March 2021, the Quality Improvement Specialist Pipeline Project is designed to help early childhood leaders to develop a diverse skillset to excel in their career and position themselves for success in a Quality Improvement Specialist role with QUALITYstarsNY.
The course included presentations by QUALITYstarsNY staff as well as other project leaders and experts across the Institute. Hosted over six weeks, the course covered a range of topics to help participants broaden their knowledge of high quality in an early childhood setting and deepen their practice. Through course content, discussions, and assignments, participants explored diverse topics such as:
- Adult relationships and change theory using a strengths based approach
- The work of QUALITYstarsNY and our Quality Improvement Specialists who provide 1-1 support to early childhood programs
- How to set goals and build a Quality Improvement Plan
- Engaging in Continuous Quality Improvement
Following success of the project and positive feedback we received from this pilot cohort, QUALITYstarsNY plans to continue the Quality Improvement Specialist Pipeline Project and launch our second cohort this summer. Stay tuned for future announcements about the application process for our next participant group!
