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Quality Improvement System (QIS)

Supporting Continuous Quality Improvement in Early Learning and Care Programs

Quality Counts California (QCC) is California’s QIS. QCC supports early learning and care (ELC) by providing resources, funding, and implementation practices for expanding and measuring program quality for positive child outcomes. Participating ELC that choose to or are required to be rated will utilize these measurable quality indicators to obtain a rating. Rated settings are part of a quality rating and improvement system (QRIS) within the umbrella of the QCC QIS. This page has news, FAQs, regional contact information, and implementation resources for Early Educators and Quality Partners.

Current Activities

QIS Revision Process Underway

California has an established QIS that is currently in operation. However, work is underway toward revising this system, including what indicators of quality are measured and how.

  • The Equity-Centered Advisory Panel was convened in August 2024 and met through December 2025 to provide recommendations to revise the current QRIS. With input from the ELC workforce, subject matter experts, and interest holders, the Advisory Panel developed recommendations that include a definition of quality that encompasses equity and inclusivity as well as family, community, cultural, and linguistic preferences. Learn more about the Equity-Centered QRIS Advisory Panel and read the recommendations report on the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) website.
  • Building Equitable Early Learning and Care Systems (BEELS) is a First 5 California (F5CA) partnership with WestEd in the development of, and access to, more equitable ELC systems across the state, including supports to QCC regional hubs, coaches, trainers, and providers. BEELS focuses on co-designing systems and elevating the needs of the state’s QCC regions. To explore the extensive BEELS work and progress please view the BEELS dashboard.
  • The California Department of Education, in collaboration with F5CA and in consultation with the California Department of Social Services, are developing a pilot for a statewide site-level badging system within the QCC framework to recognize early learning settings’ strengths through flexible, locally responsive, and non-rating-based pathways. Initial framework development has been informed by diverse interest holder input and subject matter expertise. A statewide pilot, led by the Sacramento County Office of Education, will run for a year beginning April 2026. To learn more about site level badging, email [email protected].

Resources

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  • Quality Continuum Framework: Measurable Quality Elements

    The Quality Continuum Framework-Measurable Quality Elements (formerly called the Rating Matrix) includes elements that are research-based indicators of quality. It provides a recommended …

  • QIS Implementation Guide

    This resource is designed to support the local QCC’s system implementation with fidelity to statewide agreements, policies, and statutory requirements. The Implementation Guide will continue to …

  • CQI Core Tools and Resources

    These tools are aligned to the core elements of quality. Addressing topics like health, inclusion, family engagement and workforce development, these resources have been designed and selected to …

FAQs

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What is the difference between a Quality Improvement System (QIS) and a Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS)?

Both QIS and QRIS engage early learning and care programs, also known as early care and education programs, in a continuous quality improvement process based on a common set of program quality standards. A QRIS includes quality ratings.

Quality Counts California (QCC) includes both a QIS and a QRIS, as ratings are required for California State Preschool Programs. The quality elements measured by QCC ratings comprise the continuous quality improvement framework for all QCC-participating programs.

Why participate in QIS

Participating in a QIS demonstrates a commitment to quality and continuous growth. QCC can help you with resources and supports to build your care program. Find out more, including testimonials.

How can I sign up to participate in QCC?

Your local QCC Lead Agency can provide more information about local quality improvement efforts in the early learning and care system, including the onboarding process and upcoming professional learning opportunities. Find your local QCC.