Some of you have asked, “Who are the Data Collectors, and what do they know about child care?
The date collectors are hired by the UW for this role, but are not necessarily child care experts. They are, however, trained at the highest levels on the ERS and CLASS. They are tested regularly to assure their high level skills and accuracy. They do know about child care, but are not the ones who will make decisions about hour scoring.
I compare it to a phlebotomist (there is a $1 dollar word for you!). The phlebotomist is highly trained to collect your blood sample, but is not the one that will diagnose you. The blood date will go to a doctor who will do the diagnosis.
The same is true for Early Achievers. The Data Collectors are highly trained to collect the data, but it will be a panel of Early Childhood experts at the UW will assess the data and identify your points.
Points are scored in the following areas:
1. ERS. this is a pretty tough assessment. Most programs are currently scoring at the minimum level of 3.5 average. As you work with your coach and spend your quality improvement dollars, the next round of assessments will likely be higher.
2. CLASS part 1 (Emotional Support and Classroom Organization Support). Most problems meet the minimum threshold for this quite easily and some even score higher than the minimum 10 points. If you have a happy classroom, are sensitive to each child’s needs and your program runs like a well oiled machine.
3. CLASS part 2 (Instructional Support) This one has a very high bar, so most programs have to practice these skills to meet the minimum threshold for 10 points.
4. “Extra Points” Here is where you will submit evidence in your FSM (file of supporting materials) for at least 5 extra points to get a total of at least 30 points.
