Quality First! is a brand new but very important coalition to improve early care in Arizona funded by First Things First. In November of 2006, Arizona voters passed prop 203 overwhelmingly as a citizens initiative to quality early childhood development and health. Quality First! is an exciting opportunity for centers and homes to improve the quality of care provided to children with the support of financial incentives, coaching, child care health consultation and scholarships for program personnel.
What is truly exciting about this program is the first actual funded program in and Arizona that is truly designed to improve child care centers and homes to ensure all our children meet or exceed national standards. Early education starts as soon as a child is born (some experts even suggest in the womb!) so the type of care they receive from the start can be hugely important. Access to great resources comes at a time when Arizona has low education expectations which could provide the boost needed to truly equip our children for success.
Ask your provider today if they are participating in this voluntary program or you can check the list (pdf link) for yourself. If your provider is not participating this is an important juncture for you to consider - if they are not willing to improve the education of your preschooler why are you entrusting them to be the educator?
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