Publications | January 2025
Abstract: This study explored the use of continuous quality improvement (CQI) approaches in the Texas quality rating and improvement system (QRIS), Texas Rising Star. CQI approaches can assist child programs with engaging in quality improvement support and lift the quality of early learning programs to serve young children. We applied an implementation science-based fidelity monitoring framework as we analyzed secondary data from 1,789 child care programs using an online platform, survey data from mentors (n = 97), directors (n = 562), and teachers (n = 211), focus group transcripts (12 focus groups with 48 participants), and data from CQI plans (n = 173). Research Findings: Key findings from the study showed variability in how CQI was implemented across early learning programs, but generally showed (1) opportunities to differentiate delivery of CQI plans with lower star rated programs, (2) promising levels of engagement and participation within the CQI approach, and (3) positive director and teacher perceptions of the CQI approach. Practice or Policy: Study findings suggest that CQI approaches within QRIS may be a useful way to provide differentiated quality improvement support to early learning programs.
Publication: Early Education and Development
CLI Authors: April Crawford, PhD, Cheryl A. Varghese, PhD, Kelly A. Vaughn, PhD, Olivia Lewis, Vibhutibala Bhavsar, Salvi Kumar, Igor Penedo Silva, Emily Ferrari, and Yoonkyung Oh, PhD
Citation: Crawford, A., Varghese, C. A., Vaughn, K. A., Lewis, O., Bhavsar, V., Kumar, S., … Oh, Y. (2025). An Exploration of Continuous Quality Improvement Approaches within the Texas Quality Rating and Improvement System. Early Education and Development, 1–21. https://doi.org/10.1080/10409289.2025.2449691