High-quality, healthy and safe learning environments are important for children’s brain development and kindergarten readiness.
Through Focused Child Care Networks, childcare providers receive education, training and support in achieving a star rating in the statewide SPARK program.
SPARK star ratings consist of a series of standards designed to ensure that a childcare environment is high quality. The local Focused Child Care Network has almost 70 providers who meet regularly for peer-to-peer support, training and resource sharing.
Focused Child Care Networks:
Childcare providers who work together in a network have access to professional development and training, as well support and peer mentoring.
If you are currently a childcare provider in a center-based or home-based program and are interested in joining Spark, contact Maria Fernandez.
Child Care Quality Rating
Childcare providers in the network work hard to demonstrate high-quality care that meets state-defined standards—which can earn them a star rating.
Multilingual Providers
The network also includes active English- and Spanish-speaking childcare providers in Marion and Polk Counties.
Number of Star Rated Providers:
The FCCNs have helped to more than double the number of local 3-star, 4-star and 5-star quality-rated early-learning programs.