CLASS

During the 2018 legislative session, and again in the 2022 legislative session, the Florida Legislature passed a set of bills that required most School Readiness and all Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) providers to participate in program assessment. The program assessment is conducted using the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS®), an evidence-based tool that measures, by observation, the quality of interactions between teachers and children. Trained, certified observers, assess interactions in assigned provider classrooms that ultimately provide insight to the level of quality of teaching practices. Through integrated support and services, the Coalitions’ goal is to increase the number of quality providers accessible to children and families living and working in Palm Beach County.

Why am I being observed?

For VPK Providers, all VPK classrooms are required to participate in a program assessment. School Readiness Providers with 21% filled School Readiness childcare slots out of the maximum capacity are required to participate in program assessment for 50% of every care level offered.
How are my classrooms selected?

Through an automated system developed by the Division of Early Learning, classrooms are randomly selected to be assessed.
How long does the observation last?

A single-classroom observation lasts about 2 hours broken into smaller periods of 20 minutes for a total of 4 cycles. Observations may be paused during outdoor/recess time.
How can I best prepare for the observation?

Discuss with your program site staff/owner your scheduled observation time and let the children know ahead of time. If unfamiliar with CLASS, attend an introductory training opportunity and familiarize yourself with the CLASS Dimensions Guide and tips. We strongly recommend that you take advantage of all the supports we provide way in advance of your assessment window. On the day of the observation, lead your class naturally like any other typical day
How is the Composite Score calculated?

The Composite score is an average of all dimensions scores assigned to the classrooms observed, omitting the negative climate score. Assessors enter the dimension scores into the Statewide system and the system calculates and generates the final composite score
How do I access my Composite Score?

For SR providers your score can be viewed in QPS. For VPK providers, you score will be sent via email. All CLASS composite scores are sent to the contact on file via email within 14 days of the score being generated.
How can I request a summary report of my CLASS Composite Score?

Individual classroom scores and notes may be requested HERE. Please allow the Coalition up to 10 calendar days upon your written request to reply via email with your requested documents.