Q & A with the Directors at the Office of Early Childhood

Regarding PDIS and QRIS

 -Can we create modules that are Montessori applicable for PDIS? 

Through the CDE Training Approval system, modules can be created and added to the PDIS by outside professional development entities; modules can be added using any SCORM compliant authoring tool.  The Training Approval functionality within the PDIS will be available within the next year.
-Can AMS Webinars count as training for state requirements?

For the purpose of the credential, any training (online or face to face) that can be used toward child care licensing annual clock hours can also be used to earn credential points.

-Will QRIS be funded beyond 2017?

​ Yes, the Colorado Shines QRIS is embedded in child care licensing and will continue to support programs. A program navigating QRIS through 2017 and beyond can expect to get support through their early childhood council in the form of coaching, materials, technical assistance, and professional development.  The grant that created QRIS, Race to the Top-Early Learning Challenge, will continue to fund this, however once these dollars have been expended, the Child Care and Development Fund will support efforts as mandated by new federal requirements established in the 2014 Child Care and Development Block Grant Act reauthorization.​

-How much does QRIS cost the state of Colorado?

​Costs vary based on what a program is eligible for. Programs participating in higher levels of the QRIS system can apply for grant funds through their QRIS program portal.  There are several funding opportunities that support licensed programs:  Child Care Assistance Program Quality Improvement, School Readiness, Infant Toddler Availability Grant, and Race to the Top.  Each provider can work with their Early Childhood Council to find out what they may be eligible for.

-Are QRIS standards malleable? Can we suggest changes?

​We always appreciate input from our licensed programs! The current standards that are in place are based on research from a variety of early childhood sources (see the program guide for resources that influence the standards adopted).  The Colorado Shines Point Structure Guide and rating process are under review and evaluation by an independent evaluator, Child Trends.  We anticipate that this evaluation will result in either the current standards remaining in place, or that changes will be made based on new research or data and stakeholder input.  Watch for a questionnaire that will allow for your input. We will not be making any changes during this phase of evaluation.​

-Can we create modules that are Montessori applicable for PDIS?

Through the CDE Training Approval system, modules will be able to be created and added to the PDIS by outside professional development entities. The modules will have to meet certain early learning and technical requirements prior to approval.
-If the Office of ECE is creating a qualified substitutes list, can Montessori experience and/or webinars for training be added, so Montessori schools can choose substitutes that have some Montessori back ground? The Office of Early Childhood at CDHS is in the very early stages of establishing some guidelines regarding a substitute workforce.  Over the next 18 months, we will be working with our Federal partners at the State Capacity Building Center to gather this type of stakeholder feedback.

-Can AMS Webinars count as training for state requirements?

For the purpose of the credential, any training (online or face to face) that can be used toward child care licensing annual clock hours can also be used to earn credential points.