Keystone STARS
Standards • Benefits • Renew • Move Up • Alternate Pathways
Keystone STARS is an initiative of the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) to improve, support and recognize the continuous quality improvement efforts of early learning programs in the state. The program is proven to increase the quality of early learning programs in Pennsylvania and provides parents with a tool to gauge the quality of care and early education their child will receive.
The following eligible programs demonstrate their ability to maintain a foundation for a safe and healthy environment for children and will automatically be designated a STAR 1. Programs may choose to participate in ongoing quality improvement activities to obtain a STAR 2, 3 or 4.
- DHS-certified child care providers with a full certificate of compliance
- Early Head Start and Head Start sub grantees in substantial compliance with no deficiencies
- Preschool programs licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education in good standing
The Keystone STARS Performance Standards are intended to support your program in developing a meaningful, individualized Continuous Quality Improvement Plan (CQI Plan). They were written to be respectful of the broad diversity of early care and education providers in Pennsylvania. The Performance Standards are grouped into four levels: STAR 1 (Certification Compliance), STAR 2 (Programs at this level must address a group of required quality standards), STAR 3, and STAR 4 (Programs at these levels earn points by choosing from a set of recommended quality standards). The standards address staff qualifications and professional development, the early care and education program, partnerships with families and communities, and leadership and management. Each level builds on the previous level and utilizes research-based best practices to promote quality early learning and school-age environments and positive child outcomes. CLICK HERE to learn more about Keystone STARS.
Keystone STARS Standards and more
To learn more about Keystone STARS and access important documents please click below:
Keystone STARS Performance Standards, July 2020
Keystone STARS Program Manual, July 2020
What are the BENEFITS of Keystone STARS?
Quality early care and education benefits everyone and serves as an economic development strategy for Pennsylvania.
Benefits for Children and Families
- Quality early care and learning promotes healthy child development and early learning;
- STAR designations help families find quality child care for their children; and
- Reliable quality child care allows families to focus on work, have fewer absences and be more productive.
Benefits for Providers
- Customized support and assistance to individual programs;
- Grants, awards and other financial supports as available;
- Supportive professional development;
- Outreach and marketing to families;
- A road map for strengthening the quality of care and an opportunity for lifting up the child care profession and child care system; and
- Increased Child Care Works (CCW) payments based on eligibility and quality level.
Time to RENEW?
Renewal-MAINTAIN same STAR level (STAR 1)
You don't need to do a thing. Your STAR will automatically be renewed. However, when you are ready to begin working with a Quality Coach to move up to STAR 2, please submit the following via email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or fax to 610.343.1605:
Renewal-MAINTAIN same STAR level (STAR 2, 3, 4)
Paperwork submission only with no site visit required. Please complete and submit the following to your Quality Coach via email or fax to 610.343.1605:
- Request for Keystone STARS Designation and Program Information Form
- Facility staff qualification grid
- Professional Development Tracking Grid (STAR 3 and 4 only)
- Continuous Quality Improvement Plan Option 1 or Option 2
- Enrollment Calculation Tool
Ready to MOVE UP?
Renewals-MOVE UP STAR level (STAR 2, 3, 4)
Please complete and submit the following to your Quality Coach via email or fax to 610.343.1605:
- Request for Keystone STARS Designation and Program Information Form
- Facility staff qualification grid
- Professional Development Tracking Grid (STAR 3 and 4 only)
- Continuous Quality Improvement Plan Option 1 or Option 2
- Enrollment Calculation Tool
- Site Visit required
ALTERNATE PATHWAYS
Individual program locations can earn STAR 3 or 4 designation with current accreditation by or participation in eligible programs. Refer to page 18 of the Keystone STARS Program Performance Standards, July 2018. Please complete and submit the following to your Quality Coach via email or fax to 610.343.1605:
- Request for Keystone STARS Designation and Program Information Form
- Enrollment Calculation Tool
- Accreditation Certificate