STARS is Vermont’s quality recognition system for child care, preschool, and after-school programs. Programs that participate in STARS are stepping ahead - going above and beyond state regulations to provide professional services that meet the needs of children and families.

How does it work?

Programs may apply for recognition in 5 areas:

1. Regulatory history;
2. Staff qualifications;
3. Families & communities;
4. Program practices; and
5. Administration.

One-star programs may be just starting on a path to improvement or may be stronger in one area.

Two-star programs may have made some progress in many areas or more progress in one or two areas.

Three-star programs have either made substantial progress in two or three areas or some improvements in all five.

Four-star programs have documented quality in all five areas. Many are also nationally accredited.

Five-star programs are outstanding in all five areas. Many are also nationally accredited.

What it Means to Providers

You can look to STARS as an opportunity to look at your program objectively and use child care quality indicators to identify strengths and areas for improvement. The primary incentive for participating in STARS is local and statewide recognition of your program's achievements. Other incentives include community awards and financial rewards (e.g., higher reimbursement on the child care financial assistance fee scale).

STARS Benefits for Providers

• Bonus payments based on the number of stars earned.
• Help promoting their participation in STARS (e.g., listing on the STARS website, supply of STARS brochures, and a customized press release).
• The opportunity to apply for grants open only to programs that have stars or national accreditation.
• A higher reimbursement rate from the Child Care Financial Assistance Program (5% to 40% above base rate) based on the number of stars earned.
• Discount on purchases at some companies.

The Child Development Division contracts with coordinators to administer STARS and provide technical assistance to applicants. If you have any questions about STARS or the application process, contact the STARS coordinators at (802) 388-2853 or STARS@mjccvt.org. Or you may call the Child Development Division at 1-800-649-2642 and visit the website http://dcf.vermont.gov/cdd/stars.