BrightStarsSchool-Age Child Care (K-5)
Each program participating in BrightStars is evaluated based on best practice criteria in seven domains. Each of these domains is a critical component of program quality and is assessed using the School-Age Child Care (K-5) Standards and Criteria Framework. The program’s overall BrightStars score is determined based on benchmarks set in each domain.
- Child’s Daily Experience
- Curriculum and Child Assessment
- Indoor and Outdoor Space
- Staff-Child Ratios and Group Sizes
- Family Communication and Involvement
- Staff Qualifications and Professional Development
- Program Management
Overall quality is assessed using a five star scale.
A one star program meets all critical state licensing requirements and has a quality improvement plan.
A two star program implements good practices above and beyond licensing expectations in some BrightStars quality domains and has an up-to-date quality improvement plan.
A three star program exceeds basic licensing standards, demonstrates good practice across all BrightStars quality domains and is implementing an up-to-date quality improvement plan. The program achieves scores in the “good” category during an intensive observation by a trained, impartial evaluator. The program may also be nationally accredited.
A four star program exceeds basic licensing standards, demonstrates high-quality practice across all BrightStars quality domains and is implementing an up-to-date quality improvement plan. The program achieves scores in the “good to excellent” category during an intensive observation by a trained, impartial evaluator. The program may also be nationally accredited.
A five star program exceeds basic licensing standards, demonstrates exemplary practice across all BrightStars quality domains and is implementing an up-to-date quality improvement plan. The program achieves scores in the “excellent” category during an intensive observation by a trained, impartial evaluator. The program may also be nationally accredited.
