Grow With Spark
As an Early Learning Educator, you have access to valuable supports through Spark — including expert help and encouragement along the way and financial resources to help you reach your program goals and strengthen your business. Spark meets programs where they are, offering assistance, tools, and connections that make it easier to achieve what matters most to you and the families you serve.
In the past, Spark recognition focused only on programs that could demonstrate they met certain established standards by completing a portfolio and achieving a star rating. Today, Spark has expanded to also recognize programs that are actively pursuing their own goals for growth and improvement. This approach honors the individuality of each program and supports providers in making meaningful progress in ways that reflect their unique strengths, values, and the needs of the children and families they serve.
Who Can Participate?
Spark is available to all licensed child care and early education programs in Oregon, including:
- Certified Family Child Care
- Certified Center Child Care
- Registered Family Child Care
- Head Start and Early Head Start
- Oregon Pre-Kindergarten
- School-age programs (if licensed)
- Certain programs monitored by agencies other than the Office of Child Care Licensing—such as those operated by school districts, higher education, or tribal agencies are also eligible to participate.
Your Spark Journey: A Quick Guide
1. Submit your Spark application or Spark Program Universal Request (SPUR)
- If you are new to Spark, complete the Spark Application Form.
- If you are currently participating in Spark, complete the SPUR.
The Spark team will review your form and send an email with instructions to start your QI Cycle.
2. Start your QI Cycle
View the QI Cycle Participation Form to access resources for selecting goals. Goals are individualized and should reflect what’s important to your program.
3. Apply for funds
After submitting your QI Cycle Participation Form, follow the instructions in the email to apply for a $500 goal payment, if eligible.
4. Work towards your goal
Use available resources, tools, and support to achieve your goals. You can reach out anytime, and it’s okay if your goals change—just note updates in your final Reflection.
5. Complete your QI Cycle
Submit a QI Cycle Reflection after 12 months to assess progress. Eligible programs receive a $250 incentive and recognition for completed goals.
Reach Out to Spark
The Spark Program Universal Request (SPUR) is your go-to form for any Spark-related needs. Programs use it to:
- Start a new QI Cycle
- Update program information
- Request a current certificate
- …and more!
It’s quick, easy, and ensures Spark can support your program exactly when you need it!
Request a Current Certificate!
Programs with a Spark rating may request an updated certificate reflecting their current rating.
To maintain a current rating, programs must:
- Continue meeting Spark participation requirements.
- Address any health and safety concerns identified through the Spark review process.
- Complete a Rating Maintenance application when requested by Spark.
Spark Program Observation
A program observation can help you:
- Gain an outside perspective on the strengths of your daily practices and learning environment.
- Identify opportunities to make meaningful improvements that support children’s growth and learning.
- Understand how your routines, interactions, and physical space support quality.
- Receive feedback to use to guide your next steps in the QI Cycle.
Explore FREE Resources
Unlock a full library of free, high-quality tools created to make running your program easier. The Oregon Early Learning Resources platform offers:
- Easy-to-use templates, handbooks, and policies
- Classroom materials that support learning and engagement
- HR and business resources designed to simplify your workload
- Cost-saving programs that help your budget go further
Everything is free, easy to access, and ready to use—helping you focus more on what matters most: the children and families you serve.
Participant Resources
A wide variety of supports are available to help you. Please take advantage of the resources you need to help you succeed.
To download a file, first click on a folder to see the contents. Click the Download button to save the file to your computer. To download several files at once, check the boxes next to the download button and click “Download Selected Files.” A zip file will be created.
Spark Helpline – 877-768-8290 or orego
Spark Program Universal Request – Complete a Spark Program Universal Request (SPUR) to ensure your information is up to date and to share more information about continued participation in Spark.
CCR&R Regional Map – Find your local Child Care Resources & Referral agency.
Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) – provides resources, guidance, and support to help early learning programs deliver safe, high-quality care for children and families.
Oregon Center for Career Development/Oregon Registry Online (ORO) – OCCD promotes professional development to achieve high quality care and education for children and creates and supports training and education.
Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) Program – for Providers who want to start providing child care for families who have ERDC.
Inclusive Partners – a statewide program that supports inclusive practices in child care settings through technical assistance, consultation services, a financial supplement, and professional development opportunities.