Smart Start Quality Support Program

Smart Start Quality Support Program

The Smart Start Quality Support Program is the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) new support for quality improvement. Currently, 34 licensed child care centers in CCAP Group 2 counties that serve at least 40% CCAP children are participating. The Program helps the participating centers cover the staffing costs associated with higher quality and guide staff in their quality improvement work.

The information on this page is meant to be utilized by child care center participating in the Program.

Questions about the Program should be directed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Lori Harrison, Site Administered Contracts and Program Operations Unit Manager Bureau of Quality Initiatives at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..


Reference Documents

Program Standards Documents

Resources

Webinar Recording

Excelerate Program

ExceleRate Illinois helps you prepare children for success in school and in life.

It also provides standards, guidelines, resources and supports to help you make sensible changes that lead to better quality outcomes for children.