Raising the Quality of Early Childhood Education Through Oregon's QRIS

Posted on May 13, 2015

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By Carol Dennis

"Being part of the QRIS gives me a feeling of pride. It is an opportunity for my program to be recognized as a quality program in the state."

Ms. Teapot's Tiny Tots

"Not only do the parents view me as more of a professional, but I view myself as more of one as well."

Elli's Preschool & Daycare

"QRIS is amazing. It started me thinking about my education, and now I am working, a mom of 5, and a full-time college student. Thank you, QRIS!"

Lisa's Family Day Care

These are the kinds of statements we hear from child care providers who are participating in the statewide field test of Oregon's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS). These providers have received the advice and support of a network of early childhood professionals throughout the state, coordinated through the Center on Early Learning at The Research Institute at Western Oregon University.

Learn how you can participate.

What is Oregon's QRIS?

QRIS is a program that raises the quality and consistency of child care and early learning programs across the state. The Quality Rating System recognizes, rewards and builds on what early learning and development programs are already doing well. It helps ensure children in QRIS programs are ready for kindergarten by connecting programs and providers with free tools, financial incentives and professional advice that they can put into practice with confidence.

Participating child care facilities, both center and family based, are helping to form the programs and policies that will take Oregon into the forefront of early childhood education and development.

How many children does Oregon's QRIS reach?

As of April 30, 2015, a total of 36,258 children in Oregon are currently in programs that have achieved a rating of "Commitment to Quality" (C2Q) or higher. Of that number, 8,620 children are in programs rates 3, 4, or 5 Star.

Sharing information with the Oregon Education Service Districts

On May 15, 2015, TRI's Gary Glasenapp presented some of the findings from the field test at the Oregon Association of Education Service Districts (OAESD) Spring Conference. Since many ESDs across Oregon play a crucial role in their region's Early Learning Hub, we look forward to their input on how we might work together.

Learn more about Oregon's QRIS.