From The Early Years Institute research, the need emerged for a Quality Rating and Information System (QRIS) that defines quality for providers and parents and strengthens infrastructure and supports for providers. Twenty-one other states have implemented such a system which typically involves an on-site review of the program, the designation of one to five stars based on their quality rating that is shared with parents, the creation of a quality improvement plan, and funding to help improve quality and move to a higher star level.

All regulated programs can volunteer to participate in QUALITYstarsNY, including child care centers, Head Start programs, Pre-K programs, family and group family child care homes, nursery schools, preschools, and after-school programs. Parents will be able to compare levels of quality across all types of early childhood programs.

EYI Executive Director Dana Friedman co-chaired the New York State Quality Rating Work Group from its inception in 2005 and continues to play a role in its final design as a member of the New York State Early Childhood Advisory Council. EYI’s involvement has enabled the Quality Circle and Advisory Committee to provide ongoing input into this system’s development. In addition, Long Island is one of 10 designated sites for the QUALITYstarsNY field test, designed by EYI and others. There is great potential for making positive and systemic change in the local infrastructure for child care.

Click here (PDF) to learn more about why New York Needs QUALITYstarsNY.

Visit the new website created to provide information and updates about the development of QUALITYstarsNY.

For questions about the statewide development of QUALITYstarsNY, you can email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 516-304-5480. For information about the Long Island field test, call the lead agencies of the field test: Child Care Council of Nassau, 516-358-9250 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or the Child Care Council of Suffolk, 631-462-0444 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .