Start with Stars

Start with Stars is a QUALITYstarsNY initiative designed to support programs that are just starting out or have new program leadership before they begin participating in QUALITYstarsNY. Start with Stars participants receive short-term, intensive support to help them
create a foundation for success before transitioning to QUALITYstarsNY.

Over the course of their participation, programs receive frequent contact from a designated Quality Improvement Specialist (QI Specialist) who will work closely with program leadership to define improvement goals. In collaboration with their QI Specialist, the program leader will identify tailored strategies and resources needed to meet their goals. Upon demonstrating measurable progress, programs will transition into QUALITYstarsNY to continue their ongoing quality improvement efforts.

How does Start with Stars help programs?

Like QUALITYstarsNY, programs in Start with Stars benefit from a variety of resources, at no cost to participants, to support them through the quality improvement process, including:

  • A designated QI Specialist, an expert in the early childhood field, to provide regular support and collaborative goal-setting

  • Access to materials, supplies, and equipment to improve the quality of the learning environment

  • Professional development opportunities

  • …And much more!

How Does Start with Stars Compare to QUALITYstarsNY?

Like QUALITYstarsNY, Start with Stars participants have access to a designated QI Specialist and quality improvement resources, however, Start with Stars is a short-term, intensive set of supports that focuses on foundational development in order to position programs to move into QUALITYstarsNY. Programs in Start with Stars are not rated until they transition to QUALITYstarsNY.