Through this system, programs can receive support to demonstrate their level of quality. There are 5 levels of quality in this system.
ECPAC’s supportive services to Early Care and Education (ECE) programs include helping providers know what will be involved in advancing to demonstrated quality through the Colorado Shines system:
- All licensed ECE Programs are a Colorado Shines Level 1 program. ECPAC staff are available to ECE programs to support them to reach a Level 2, which includes completing some on-line classes and a self-assessment. We are here to help – so give us a call!
- Once ECE Programs have achieved a Level 2 rating, have a signed CCCAP fiscal agreement, and have updated their Colorado Shines application – they are eligible for CO Shines funding to help them achieve the milestones needed to demonstrate a high level of quality through the rating system. This includes funding for classroom materials, an early childhood coach, and funding for professional development. We would love to help you access these supports – so give us a call!
- Programs receive a Level 3-5 Colorado Shines rating – after they have completed a rating submission process that includes an on-site evaluation by a neutral observer (contracted by Clayton Early Learning). Some programs are eligible for a Level 3-5 because they already hold accreditations that crosswalk over.
Adams County ECE providers who are Level 1 and/or do not have a signed fiscal agreement with CCCAP, may access quality improvement supports through ECPAC’s Fee For Service Quality Support Program or contact ECPAC to determine if they qualify for “hardship” support.
