Outreach Assessments

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What is an Outreach Assessment? 

An Outreach Assessment offered by NCRLAP is a fantastic opportunity for programs to get a head start on understanding the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3, ITERS-3, SACERS-U, and FCCERS-3) without the stress of it impacting their Star Rated License. Think of it as a friendly, no-pressure practice run that helps you pinpoint your program’s strengths and areas for improvement.

Here’s how it works:

1. Initial Phone Call: We kick things off with a conversation to understand your program’s needs and set up the assessment(s).
2. The Assessment: Our assessors will complete assessments during the scheduled window using the new rating scales.
3. Follow-Up Call: After all assessments are completed, an assessor will call you to set up a convenient time for the follow up conversation to discuss the results with you, providing valuable feedback and actionable insights.

These assessments are a great way to familiarize your staff with the rating scales, ensuring everyone knows what to expect during an official assessment. Plus, they’re completely free for programs!

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The Benefits of Outreach Assessments

An outreach assessment with NCRLAP offers several advantages and benefits for early childhood education programs:

• Increased Knowledge: It helps programs become more familiar with the Environment Rating Scale (ERS) assessment process and requirements, including ECERS-3, ITERS-3, SACERS-U, and FCCERS-3. For programs that have not been assessed before, an assessor can visit beforehand to explain the process and answer any questions.
• No Impact on Star Rated License: Since these assessments are not official, the scores do not affect a program’s Star Rated License.
• Preparation for Official Assessments: It provides a realistic preview of the official assessment process, helping programs prepare better for future assessments.
• Supportive Follow-Up: Programs receive detailed information highlighting their strengths and areas for improvement, which can be very informative and encouraging.After the assessment, an assessor will discuss the results with the program’s administrator, explaining the scoring, developmental rationales, and offering guidance on how to use the feedback effectively.

Why wait? Reach out now and let's get those Outreach Assessments scheduled for your program! 

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Focus In: Ideas for Preparing for an Outreach Assessment

What do you need to do to prepare for an outreach assessment? ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!! However, if you are interested in getting your program thinking about assessments, here are some steps to help you get ready: 

Understand the Rating Scales

• Familiarize yourself and your team with the Environment Rating Scales (ECERS-3, ITERS-3, SACERS-U, and FCCERS-3). Understanding the criteria will help you know what to expect.
• Hold a meeting to go over the scales and discuss any questions or concerns. This ensures everyone is on the same page.
• Visit our website to find all of the valuable resources and trainings we have to offer for all of the rating scales. 

Engage Your Staff

• Conduct training sessions to help staff understand the assessment process and their roles. This can include mock assessments or role-playing scenarios.
• Create an open environment where staff feel comfortable asking questions and seeking clarification.

Communicate with Families

• Let parents know about the upcoming assessment and how it benefits the program. This helps build trust and transparency.
• Consider gathering feedback from parents about the program. This can provide additional insights and areas for improvement.

Plan for the Assessment Day

• Our scheduling team will help in making sure assessments are scheduled on a typical day. 
• Remind your staff about the assessment day and what to expect. Encourage them to maintain their usual routines and interactions with children.

Follow-Up and Reflect

• After the assessment, a follow up call will be scheduled. Gather questions you and/or your staff have that you would like to talk through with the assessor.
• Use this information from the follow up call to create an action plan for improvement. Include all staff in these conversations. 
• Start making any necessary changes based on the feedback. Start with small changes that are easy and valuable to both children and the teachers. 

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared for your Outreach Assessment and ready to make the most of the valuable feedback you’ll receive. Remember, this is a great opportunity to focus in, learn, and grow!

For more information about what to do, check out this resource: Your Assessments are Scheduled... Now What? 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions about Outreach Assessments, using the 3s, or having an assessment using the 3s? The documents below are designed to answer some of the most commonly asked questions. If you have additional questions, please reach out and we will get your questions answered. 

• FAQ's About Outreach Assessments
• FAQ's about Transitioning to the 3s
• FAQ's about Observations Using the 3s

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Resources and Trainings 

Are you interested in learning more about the ECERS-3, ITERS-3, and FCCERS-3 or need information on where to purchase the scales? Visit our Get Ready for the 3s webpage to learn more and see all that we have to offer and support programs. There are resources and free contact hour earning trainings dedicated to each scale. Check back often as we are contining to add to the lists as more become available. 

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Curious to learn more or ready to schedule your Outreach Assessments? We’ve got you covered! Reach out to NCRLAP today and take the first step towards enhancing your program’s quality and readiness.