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The University of Idaho delivers high-impact research and education for all of Idaho, from senior citizens to toddlers.
The IdahoSTARS program embodies the land-grant mission, providing award-winning resources for both families seeking child care and providers in the state. The Small World Child Care Center in Idaho Falls leaned on guidance and support from the U of I program to improve its quality of care.
Every employee of The Small World enrolled in the IdahoSTARS Professional Development System. They completed trainings, applied for grants and received a star rating in the state’s quality rating system.
Coaching support and quality improvement grants helped 10 teachers at The Small World complete Child Development Associate Credentials. The result is improved child care with verification that families can trust.
Across the state, 1,260 participants received personalized coaching from IdahoSTARS Child Care Resource and Referral Centers.
“Our IdahoSTARS coaches help us stay on track, meet deadlines, address areas of need and set both short and long-term goals,” said Julie Heaton, director of The Small World. “We are so blessed to have these coaches. We deeply appreciate their hard work and encouragement.”
Last month, the National Workforce Registry Alliance recognized IdahoSTARS with the Human-Centered Design Award. The program conducted more than 50 listening sessions with hundreds of child care providers to inform initiatives like the restructuring of the state’s Child Care Professional Development System.
“The Human-Centered Design Award reflects Idaho STARS’ dedication to creating a more responsive and effective system for child care providers in Idaho,” said Melissa Crist, IdahoSTARS project director. “We’re proud to serve families and play an important role in elevating communities through child care.”
IdahoSTARS is a project of the Idaho Center on Disabilities and Human Development and operates within the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences. Much like UI Extension programs, IdahoSTARS meets the needs of families and child care centers through education and outreach. By delivering resources online and locally, the program carries out our land-grant mission of research, education and outreach.
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