Programs

Quality Specialists

Our Quality Specialists are here to help you navigate Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) and ExceleRate Illinois.

Quality Specialists assist licensed centers and homes in improving the quality of their services and meet the ExceleRate Circle of Quality standards. Quality Specialists work one-on-one with Illinois programs and providers to offer training, consultation, on-site or virtual visits, and resources.

Illinois Action for Children’s Quality Specialists are free to you through our partnership with the Illinois Department of Human Services.

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Our Quality Specialists provide:

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Assistance understanding and using the Program Administration Scales (PAS) and Business Administration Scale (BAS). Support includes coaching with directors, teachers, and providers.

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Information and resources on best practices in early care and education.

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Application process guidance for providers and programs.

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Information on preparing for an Environmental Rating Scale Assessment.

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Assistance to providers as they develop and implement Quality Improvement Plans (CQIPs).

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Documentation review for the Program Administration Scale.

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Documentation review for the Business Administration Scale.

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Mentoring and support through role-playing and modeling best practices with various interaction scenarios.

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Tailored services to meet your program’s specific needs and goals.

Questions on Quality Specialists?

Contact Terese Quarino, Consultation Project Manager, at 773-769-8017 or teresequarino@actforchildren.org

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Race to Bronze Program

Take Your Home Child Care Program to the Next Level

Ready to stand out as a quality provider in Illinois? The Race to Bronze program provides licensed home child care providers with the expert support and resources needed to earn their Bronze Circle of Quality—completely free. Start your journey toward quality recognition today!

 

Benefits

Beginning in October, our specialists will guide you through every step, helping you:

  • Complete the required training
  • Apply for training stipends
  • Submit your Bronze Circle of Quality application

Why Race to Bronze?

  • No Cost to You: All guidance, training assistance, and application support are provided at no charge. Note: There is a one-time $15 fee for the Getting Ready for BAS training.
  • Boost Your Reputation: Earning Bronze elevates your status in the community and signals your commitment to excellence.
  • Attract More Families: Parents look for providers who hold recognized quality endorsements—Bronze gives you a competitive edge.
  • Ongoing Professional Growth: The skills and best practices you gain will serve your program long after you achieve Bronze.

Start Your Journey Today

Complete the quick registration form. Once you’re signed up, your Race to Bronze specialist will reach out to schedule your first planning session.

Complete English Form

Complete Spanish Form

Connect with a dedicated specialist for personalized assistance and support at no cost.

Email qsits@actforchildren.org

Phone 773.769.8017

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Additional Exelerate Illinois Resources

Excelerate Illinois Website

Environmental Rating Scales Institute Website
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Make Change for Illinois’ Children and Families

Take action with us to build strong families and powerful communities by transforming child care and early learning in Illinois, so all our young children can fulfill their life’s potential.

Donate Today

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