The Purpose of the Quality Initiative
Initiated in 1994, NHSA’s Quality Initiative identifies and recognizes
Head Start/Early Head Start programs that demonstrate a level of high performance
and whose programs demonstrate a positive impact on the lives of children,
families, staff, and communities they serve. NHSA believes these quality programs
can serve as resources and models for the entire Head Start and early childhood
communities. By engaging in the Quality Initiative, programs are able to identify
effective practices and assess organizational performance.
Once recognized, programs maintain their designation for a period of three
years. There are two levels of recognition – Program of Achievement
and Program of Excellence. All programs must apply for Program of Achievement first and may then choose to apply for Program of Excellence.
Both grantee agencies and/or their delegate programs may apply. All
organizations that apply must…
- Be in full compliance with the Head Start Program Performance Standards.
- Remain
in full compliance with the HSPS throughout the recognition period.
- Be
members of the National Head Start Association.
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