Temple Hoyne Buell Foundation
Supporting the positive development of
young children in Colorado.
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Temple Hoyne Buell Foundation
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What is a Qualistar Rating? The Qualistar Rating measures quality in licensed early learning programs. A trained quality rating specialist spends several hours in the selected programs collecting information and evaluating the program. The child care centers will be evaluated on five quality components: Learning Environment, Family Partnerships, Training and Education, Adult-to-Child Ratios and Group Size, and Accreditation. Points are awarded in each of the components and the center receives a baseline rating (0 to 4 star scale) determined by the total points received. A Quality Performance Profile is created that outlines the program’s strengths and areas for improvement, providing the center with a detailed action plan and timeline for improvement. Why
is the Temple Hoyne Buell Foundation funding this project? The Temple Hoyne Buell Foundation
understands that measuring quality is critical, and the act of measuring offers
an opportunity for self-analysis. Research
confirms that high quality early childhood programs can produce enduring
benefits in academic achievement and life success.
This research has documented lasting effects that include, but are not
limited to, improving school readiness, avoiding special education, decreasing
grade retention, reducing school dropout, and improving high school graduation
rates. In Colorado, the Qualistar
Rating measures many of these factors, including classroom structure, classroom
dynamics, and staff characteristics. The
Quality Performance Profile assists programs to improve and/or maintain the
quality levels that will encourage the best possible outcomes for young
children. We believe the project
will encourage programs to address all of the components necessary to ensure
high quality. What
are our chances of being selected? The Foundation anticipates funding
Qualistar Ratings for approximately 100 classrooms between September 2008 and
August 2009. Determining factors
will include, but not be limited to number of applications received, level of
commitment by the center to address recommended improvements, other resources
available, location, and stability of staff (especially the director). If
we’re selected, what is expected of our child care center? The Buell Foundation expects the
selected child care centers to participate in a ‘getting ready for ratings’
process, to comply with all Qualistar rules and regulations related to ratings,
and to commit to making reasonable recommended improvements, especially those
that do not require a monetary expenditure.
The center will be required to sign a contract stating that it is willing
to accept these conditions to the best of its ability.
A final report on the use of the quality improvement funds will be
required. Who is
eligible to apply?
What will
the grant pay for? The Buell Foundation will award the successful applicant:
How do we
apply? Complete the application form found at
the link below, include all requested documentation, and mail the complete
package to: Qualistar Rating Project We have
fewer than 10 classroom slots left. There is no
deadline to apply, but once the
money has been committed to rate 100 classrooms, this page will be removed from
the Buell Foundation website. Do
not procrastinate! Who
do I call if I have questions? Call Marilie Hart at 303-744-1688
The following Colorado early childhood organizations are participating in the Buell Foundation Qualistar Rating Project during our 2008/2009 fiscal year: Arapahoe House's Children's Learning Center, Littleton
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Temple Hoyne Buell Foundation 1666 S. University Blvd., Suite B, Denver, CO 80210 (303) 744-1688 Fax (303) 744-1601 |
