The Spark team will update the newsletter regularly, featuring announcements, updates, and reminders. Our goal is to enhance communication between Spark and early learning programs.
Please review the information below carefully and reach out if you have any questions or need assistance.
Announcement
Portfolios must be received by June 30, 2026, to be reviewed. Spark is being redesigned to better support child care programs, and the portfolio-based rating system will be discontinued. The Quality Improvement Cycle will continue to be an option for child care programs for ongoing participation in Spark. This provides opportunities for reflection, growth, and recognition, as well as increased access to annual funding to support quality improvement for your child care program efforts.
Quality Improvement Cycle
A new way to participate in Spark and get recognition for your program!
Programs will set a goal at the beginning of the cycle and document their progress over the course of the year.
Programs will receive a $500 goal payment * (conditions apply) as well as recognition and $250 incentives when the cycle is complete!
To get started, complete a Spark Program Universal Requests (SPUR) and choose #8 – I would like to start a QI Cycle.
Spark Overview Sessions
Stay tuned for future sessions in 2026!
In the meantime, we encourage you to contact the Quality Improvement Specialist or coaches at your local Child Care Resource and Referral offices.
Spark Program Universal Request
Submit a SPUR for any Spark-related needs, including:
- Update program information
- Request an updated certificate / Rating renewal
- Request Rating reinstatement after a revocation
- Request a portfolio replacement
- Request a rating transfer due to a license number change
- Requested as part of a Rating Maintenance Application
- Check if eligible for Spark Payments
- Start a Quality Improvement (QI) Cycle
- Other