Spark, Oregon's Quality Recognition and Improvement System (QRIS), is a program that raises the quality and consistency of child care and early learning programs across the state. It recognizes, rewards, and builds on what early learning and development programs are already doing well. It connects programs and providers with free tools, financial incentives, and professional advice that they can put into practice with confidence.
Spark is administered by The Research Institute (TRI) at Western Oregon University through a contract with the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC). For more information about Spark, go to OregonSpark.org.
New as of October 1, 2023
Programs must be listed with ERDC to serve families receiving Employment Related Day Care subsidy in order to submit a Spark Portfolio to achieve a star rating.
Programs that are NOT ERDC listed will have the option to complete a 12-month Quality Improvement (QI) Cycle in order to participate in Spark.
ERDC listed programs can also choose to complete a QI Cycle instead of a Portfolio.
All programs will still be able to receive Spark Support Funds to help make Quality Improvements.
For more information about ERDC listing, click here ERDC Listing Information.
Steps:
1. Complete and submit this application.
2. TRI will review this application.
3. For ERDC listed programs that choose to complete a Portfolio:
- Will be sent introductory materials and a portfolio to complete.
- Program can apply for Support Funds. ($1,000 - $2,000 depending on program size, one time only)
- Program completes and submits their portfolio.
- Portfolio is reviewed for award of rating.
- Program receives incentive funds if rating achieved. ($500 - $2500 depending on program size and rating).
- Programs may resubmit to achieve higher ratings.
- TRI will provide clear guidance to help programs resubmit to achieve ratings.
OR
3. For Non-ERDC listed programs or ERDC listed programs that choose to complete a QI Cycle:
- Will be directed to information about Quality Improvement Cycles.
- Program can apply for Support Funds. ($1,000 - $2,000 depending on program size, one time only)
- Program completes a 12-month QI Cycle.
- Program receives Incentive Funds. (Amounts to be determined).