Step Up To Quality is a five-star quality rating and improvement system administered by the Ohio Department of Education and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. Step Up to Quality recognizes and promotes early learning programs that meet quality standards that go beyond what is required for licensing. The program standards are based on national research identifying standards that lead to improved outcomes for children.

Programs in Step Up to Quality serving publicly-funded children in ODJFS-licensed settings also receive additional financial support through increased child care reimbursement and quality achievement awards.

The Step Up To Quality Program Standards include four areas: Learning and Development, Administrative and Leadership Practices, Staff Qualifications and Professional Development, and Family and Community Partnerships.

PRE4CLE connects providers to resources to improve their performance in the four areas, so programs can obtain or improve their Step Up to Quality ratings.

To learn more about SUTQ, contact Starting Point at (216) 575-0061. Starting Point can provide training and technical assistance to acquire, maintain, increase, and renew your star-rating.