Standards
Keystone STARS is based on a set of high quality Performance Standards. The standards are guided by the principle that quality early learning is a foundation for children’s success and that an investment in the early care and education of Pennsylvania’s children is an investment in the future. The Keystone STARS Performance Standards reflect research-based indicators to improve outcomes for children. The standards are organized into four STAR levels that build upon each other in order to support continuous quality improvement. When a program meets the Performance Standards for a STAR level, they receive the mark of quality, a STAR designation. A Keystone STARS designation informs parents that the director and staff are committed to enhancing quality for the children and families in their program. Facilities can be designated from a STAR 1 to a STAR 4 level.
The Keystone STARS Performance Standards evaluate areas regarding:
- Staff Qualifications and Professional Development
- Learning Program
- Partnerships with Family and Community
- Leadership and Management
Performance Standards have been created for three types of programs: centers, family day care, and group day care. Visit the resources below and go to the Keystone STARS website to learn about Performance Standards and how you can get started in the STARS program.
- For Centers - 2011-2012 STARS Standards for Centers - The 2011-2012 Keystone STARS Performance Standards for Centers were released on December 15, 2010. The primary changes include adding the requirement for a developmental screening at STAR 2, as well as taking the observation standard at STAR 3 beyond just completing observations to requiring authentic assessments which align to the existing ELN requirements. Other minor changes were made to specific standards such as clarifying the number of professional development hours needed for a certain topic area. The 2011-2012 Keystone STARS Performance Standards for Centers will be effective July 1, 2011.
- For Family Day Care Programs - 2011-2012 STARS Standards for Family Child Care
- For Group Day Care Programs - 2011-2012 STARS Standards for Group Homes
- Tip Sheet Improvement Highlights (By STARS Level) - This document lists the improvements that have been made to the Keystone STARS Performance Standards for the 06-07 fiscal year, as well as examples of the research that is behind the changes.
