The Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) has begun implementation of the Alabama Quality STARS Rating and Improvement System for child care. The Alabama Quality STARS is a five star building block system which rates the quality of child care centers that are above the minimum licensing requirements. The University of Alabama and DHR uses a national systematic approach that assesses, improves, and communicates the different levels of quality in early child care and education programs. The new Quality STARS rating system allows child care centers to demonstrate the top quality care they serve to children. DHR Commissioner Nancy Buckner said, “It also provides a simple, but effective way for parents to choose a child care center that rises above the minimum standards that licensing requires.” The centers that participate in the voluntary STARS program will receive between one and five stars based on: Staff Qualifications and Professional Development, Management and Administrative Practices, Learning Environment and Curriculum, and Family Involvement and Community Partnerships. Programs that are eligible will be invited to register for an upcoming orientation session that must be attended if a center plans to apply and participate in Alabama Quality STARS. To learn more about Alabama Quality STARS, visitalabamaqualitystars.org. If you have any questions concerning the Alabama Quality STARS Program click here.