Program Assessments (CLASS^®)

For School Readiness (SR) providers, those with more than 20% of their child care slots filled by SR children must participate in program assessment for 50% of each care level they offer. For VPK providers, all VPK classrooms are required to participate in a program assessment.

For School Readiness (SR) providers, classrooms are randomly selected for assessment through an automated system developed by the Division of Early Learning. For VPK providers, all approved VPK classrooms within a program are required to participate in program assessment.

Each CLASS® observation follows a cyclical format, consisting of four 15-20 minute observation cycles, totaling approximately 2 hours. While observations may pause during outdoor or recess time for Pre-K CLASS® observations, VPK programs that include outdoor learning activities should ensure these activities follow VPK Instructional Hour guidelines, outlined by the Division of Early Learning, to remain in compliance with the VPK Program. When outdoor learning activities meet these guidelines, those interactions are also eligible for observation.

Start by discussing the scheduled observation date with your program staff or site owner and prepare the children by letting them know a visitor will be present. If you're new to CLASS®, we recommend attending an introductory training and reviewing the CLASS® Dimensions Guide and available tips. To feel confident and ready, take advantage of all the support resources we offer well before your assessment window. On the day of the observation, simply lead your class as you would on any regular day—authentic, consistent interactions are key.

The Composite Score is the average of all dimension scores from the observed classrooms in a program, excluding the Negative Climate dimension. After the observation, assessors enter the scores into the state system, which then automatically calculates and generates the final Composite Score.

For School Readiness (SR) providers, composite scores will be available in QPS within 14 business days after all program assessments at your site are completed.

For VPK providers, composite scores will be available in the Coalition Portal under the Document Library, in the Program Assessment folder, within 14 business days after all assessments at your site are completed.

You can request the summary report by submitting your request HERE. This link is also included in the Composite Score notification email for your convenience. Once processed, the report will be available in the Coalition Portal under the Document Library, in the Program Assessment folder, within 14 business days of receipt of the request.