A QRIS is a process to observe, assess, improve and recognize the quality of child care programs. A QRIS defines quality indicators and provides a framework for child care programming.

The QRIS in Kansas is called Links to Quality (L2Q). Links to Quality is a self-paced process that licensed providers can take part in to develop better business and program practices. L2Q recognizes child care programs that are working on the overall improvement of quality of care, and will make available support services, which will include coaching, mentoring, technical assistance (online or face-to-face), reviewing and assessing, to assist programs as they set goals that meet L2Q indicators.

You set your own goals for each link focus area. This service is provider and program driven. You set your specific goals. Your experience with your consultant may include:

• Brainstorming ideas regarding the link topics.
• Having collaborative conversations about business practices.
• Creating a plan to meet your goals.
• Learning about new research and best practices in the early child care and education field.
• Getting referrals to other services and supports.
• Applying for a quality improvement grant award to make changes based on your goals (specific requirements apply).
• Participating in group learning opportunities to build connections with other child care providers in your area.

With a partner and coach to guide you through quality improvement activities and help you reach your goals, you’ll never feel alone!

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All licensed child care programs in the state of Kansas can participate. This includes Child Care Centers, Family Child Care Homes, Group Homes, Head Start, Preschools and School Age programs that:

• Have received their permanent license in the state of Kansas.
• Has not received any administrative orders such as: Intent to Deny, Intent to Revoke or Emergency Order of Suspension.
• Does not have current pending complaints or incidents under KDHE investigation.
• If is DCF enrolled, is in good standing.

The L2Q Process

• STEP 1           Intake and application
• STEP 2           Notification of Acceptance Status
• STEP 3           Meet with L2Q Consultant
• STEP 4           Attend L2Q Orientation
• STEP 5           Complete Link Self-Assessment
• STEP 6           Review Self-Assessment with Consultant
• STEP 7           Complete Quality Improvement Plan (QIP)
• STEP 8           Complete Link
• STEP 9           Link Recognition
• STEP 10         Select Next Link and Start New Link at Step 5

All participants will start with the Program Administration Link first. Once they are awarded that link, participants will be able to select from the available links.  

L2Q Link Topic Areas Currently Available

What You Get

• Coaching and Mentoring with L2Q Consultants: This may include, but is not limited to: in-person consultation, phone calls, workshops, correspondence through emails, connection to community and national resources and various trainings. Early Childhood Care and Education Programs will have access to support services at any point throughout the process.
• Award Incentives: Quality awards to help support the completion and movement of L2Q Quality Indicators.
• Recognition: L2Q will recognize participants with each completed link.

FAQ’s

Is L2Q required in Kansas?

L2Q participation is voluntary, and no child care program is required to participate.

Do I need to be a DCF provider to participate?

No, a program does not need to be a DCF (Child Care Subsidy) provider to participate.

How will my program be recognized?

Your program will be recognized with Quality Recognition Links when the Quality Link criteria have been met. This will include recognition on the online Work Life System as well as a visual recognition that can be proudly displayed at your facility. Families will be able to see which links you have earned when looking into your program online, setting you apart from other programs.

How does a program apply for L2Q?

• Interested participants can start the process by filling out an intake online at https://forms.office.com/r/FqXXiFLbp9. Afterwards they will be provided with a link to complete an application.
• Once a program has submitted its application, the L2Q program staff will process the application and then notify programs of their acceptance.

Is there a cost to participate in L2Q?

There is no cost for programs to participate in L2Q In fact, L2Q will support programs through support services that will include coaching, mentoring, technical assistance, training (online or face-to-face), reviewing and assessing, to help them get the things they need to improve quality within their programs.

What is the time commitment to participate in L2Q?

L2Q is provider driven. Participants will complete program objectives and meet self-set deadlines as applicable.

Will my participation in other quality initiatives affect my involvement in L2Q?

No, it will assist L2Q program staff to align other quality efforts with L2Q, and can enhance the L2Q experience.

Is it required to attend L2Q orientation?

Yes, participants are required to attend an orientation. Your assigned consultant will contact you with information regarding the orientation. This will be at no cost to you, and you will receive a certificate for 2 hours of KDHE approved training.

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