You can achieve your goals. We can help.
We make it as easy as possible (and worth it!) to work with Quality First. Planning for change is an important part of the improvement process. Working to improve quality alongside your staff will take time, effort and adjustments. Some of this work will include identifying goals and action steps, motivating your staff and creating an environment where practicing new strategies is encouraged and supported. Our team of experts will be with you every step of the way, no matter where you are in your quality improvement journey. Because when we come together and work toward a common goal, we can change Arizona’s future.
What’s the first step?
Apply. Join the other 1,100 programs that are dedicated to continuing their quality improvement.
After you apply, here are the next steps.
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You’ve been selected!
When your program is selected as a Quality First participant, you’ll be notified via email and phone. Programs are selected throughout the year based on available funding.
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Say hello to your coordinator.
Within 15 days of being selected, your coordinator will contact you to explain next steps and schedule a visit.
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Your first assessment.
An assessor will observe your program and provide written feedback. From that, a star rating will be calculated. Ratings sound scary, we know. But this rating is judgment-free. It’s used as a tool to match a level of support that fits your needs.
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Let’s plan.
With your coach, you’ll develop a support plan that includes steps to help you meet your goals. You’ll have a system of support to help you along the way.
What does it mean to be selected for Rating Only?
When your program is selected, you may initially be invited to participate in Rating Only. This includes assessment, rating, and coordination. You will also remain on the waitlist to be selected for quality improvement supports that include coaching, child care health consultation and funding. Having a star rating helps First Things First prioritize full support services for programs with the highest level of need. Earning a star rating may also make you eligible for other system benefits, like enhanced reimbursement rates through DES. While you’re waiting, you can access other system supports found in our Resource Guide. Learn more about Rating Only here.
Mindset matters
Quality First is about reaching your goals for quality improvement. When you have a growth mindset, you understand that if you put in the effort, you can grow your skills and abilities. (That’s different than a fixed mindset, which means that you believe success depends entirely on your natural talents and abilities.) With a growth mindset, you believe that you get out of it what you put into it.
What do I need to do?
You know your child care program best — your values, culture, vision and goals. As such, you’re considered the program expert. With the help of your coach, you’re responsible for driving change within your program. The following strategies will help you make the most of your time with Quality First:
- Select someone from your program who will take charge of implementing your support plan.
- Schedule time in your calendar to work with your coach, coordinator and staff on your goals.
- Provide your staff time to work with coaches.
- Create an organizational system (like a binder that includes contacts, forms, and resources) that’s easy for your team to access.
- Monitor and review your goals to keep track of your progress.
Apply now
Participation in Quality First is free. Apply now to get the support you need to make your program the best it can be.
Apply now