Seeds to Success Modified Field Test

The 2007 – 2009 Budget Proviso mandates that the Department of Early Learning (DEL) develop a Quality Rating and Improvement System and pilot the system in five counties: Clark, Kitsap, Spokane, Yakima and King. The loss of state funds resulted in suspension of the full QRIS field test planned for July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2009.

A total of $1 million was included in the Governor’s budget for fiscal years 2010 and 2011 to continue with a modified testing of the statewide model. DEL and its nonprofit partner Thrive by Five Washington will move forward with a Modified Field Test in July 2009.

During the Modified Field Test, the five communities will be testing elements of the Seeds to Success Model. For example, the Thrive by Five Washington demonstration sites in White Center and East Yakima are testing coaching and professional development supports. Clark County is testing elements of Curriculum Learning and Environment and will look at provider and child progress using various assessment tools.

By testing elements of the Seeds to Success Model, we will gain valuable information about Seeds to Success, Washington’s QRIS. Specifically, we will learn:

The effectiveness of the Seeds to Success model
How parents access and use information about quality improvement
What resources work best for programs and providers to improve quality