Quality Rating 3: Program Improvement Plan

Requirements

Let’s look at the requirements for Accreditation & Rating Scales: Program Improvement Plan: ACR 3.3.

Review the requirements for your program type.

Some terms may be unfamiliar to you. Select the hyperlinks for more information.

Child Care Center

ACR 3.3: Program Improvement Plan

Program has developed a process for continuous quality improvement informed by: the Maryland EXCELS Self-Assessment(s) or Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS®), school readiness goals and objectives, and other program priorities.

Note: ACR 2 must be rated Met at a level 3 or above in order for ACR 3 to be reviewed.

Documentation to submit: Program Improvement Plan (PIP) and Statement of the Process of Program Improvement

Family Child Care

ACR 3.3: Program Improvement Plan

Program has developed a process for continuous quality improvement, informed by the Maryland EXCELS Self-Assessment(s), school readiness goals and objectives, and program priorities.

Note: ACR 2 must be rated Met at a level 3 or above in order for ACR 3 to be reviewed.

Documentation to submit: Program Improvement Plan (PIP) and Statement of the Process of Program Improvement

School-Age Only

ACR 3.3: Program Improvement Plan

Program has developed a process for continuous quality improvement, informed by the Maryland EXCELS Self-Assessment(s) and other program priorities.

Documentation to submit: Program Improvement Plan (PIP) and Statement of the Process of Program Improvement

Key Terms

Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS)®:

An observational tool that provides a common lens and language focused on classroom interactions.

Maryland EXCELS Self-Assessment

Maryland EXCELS has developed self-assessments and companion guides to help participants achieve Quality Rating 3 requirements. The self-assessment allows the participant to reflect on the teacher-child interactions that occur within the child care setting.