Our approach to achieving quality is constantly evolving. This means we occasionally make updates to Quality First along the way. As a current participant, you can keep up with program-wide updates, explore helpful tools, or even rewatch meetings you may have missed—it’s all here to help our participants succeed.
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Quality First has two distinct participation types, each offering tailored support. Rating Only participants with a 1-3-star rating are eligible to be selected for Quality Improvement participation depending on regional funding availability and prioritization. Benefit Rating Only Quality Improvement Quality First assessment and public star rating ✔️ ✔️ Support from a Quality First coordinator ✔️
View announcements and updates from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to help keep you keep kids safe. Read important warnings and safety recalls here. To view more safety information and recalls, visit the CPSC website.
Looking for a form? Find commonly used Quality First forms in one place. Instructions for submittal are included at the top of the forms or in the Participant Guide. If you’re not sure where to submit a form, ask your coordinator or email the Quality First Team at [email protected]. English forms Request for Early Assessment
Did you miss the 2026 Quality First Forums? Watch the recorded webinar today to catch up on current Quality First announcements, future program updates, research on Quality First and resources for your program. English webinar Spanish webinar
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Quality First, including the supports available to you, policies and updates and tips for making the most of your quality improvement efforts.
Your Quality First assessment timing and scholarship allocation (if eligible) both depend on your site details listed in the Extranet. Year-Round Programs: School-Year Programs: Find the Request for Early Assessment and other forms here.
Join us for the 2026 Quality First Forums! These virtual sessions are your chance to get the latest program updates, ask questions, and connect with fellow educators in your local community. Not yet in Quality First? We invite non-participating providers to join a special information session breakout room to learn how Quality First can showcase
Quality improvement is all about consistent progress. To help you hit the ground running, we’ve gathered our best free resources in one place. Explore the tools below and start your quality improvement journey today, no waiting required. Self Reflection Guides Developed by Quality First assessors, the Self-Reflection Guides help you dive into the CLASS® and
Attention Child Care Providers: The Arizona Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) enhanced provider search is now available for you to create your account and provide your program’s availability. Check your email: Search your email inbox for this subject line: “Action Required: Create Your Arizona Child Care Provider Search Account”. Your invitation email to set
Although accreditation is not required to participate in Quality First, Quality First recognizes accredited programs through a different assessment process. Accredited programs are assessed using the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS) only and are not assessed using the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) as part of the formal assessment process. Accredited programs that do not meet CLASS
Participation in Quality First is free. Apply now to get the support you need to make your program the best it can be.
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