Step 1
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Log in to I-LEAD through Access Indiana.
Grow Your Program With Paths to QUALITY™
Paths to QUALITY is Indiana’s free and voluntary rating system that helps childcare providers improve quality, gain recognition and access financial incentives while helping families choose the best care for their children.
What is Paths to QUALITY™
A statewide quality rating system designed to:
- Strengthen your program’s quality
- Support staff development and curriculum improvements
- Give families a clear, trusted way to identify high-quality care
Programs move through four levels of quality, each building on the previous level.
Why participate in Paths to QUALITY™?
Programs that participate in Paths to QUALITY:
- Improve child outcomes: High-quality early learning experiences support brain development, school readiness and long-term success.
- Stand out to families in your community: Families use the program as a trusted guide when choosing childcare. Higher levels signal stronger quality and school readiness support.
- Access financial benefits: Programs receive cash incentives for each level achieved, and some programs may receive a higher reimbursement rate for children using CCDF vouchers when the program achieves level 3 and 4.
- Receive coaching and support: Programs also receive technical assistance and coaching to help grow the program.
What are the Four Levels of Quality?
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Level 1 – Health & Safety
- Entry point for all programs
- Meet basic licensing and safety standards
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Level 2 – Learning Environment
- Enhance the learning environment
- Focus on staff training and interactions
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Level 3 – Planned Curriculum
- Use a planned curriculum
- Support school readiness and child development
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Level 4 – National Accreditation
- Achieve national accreditation
- Represent the highest level of quality in the state
You can apply for financial support for each phase of the accreditation process. For more information or to apply, contact the Indiana Association for the Education of Young Children or call 800-657-7577.
How to Become a Paths to QUALITY Provider
Step 2
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Register for and watch the Introduction to Paths to QUALITY training on Indiana Learning Paths.
Step 3
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Complete this application, and then email it to Qualitysupport@fssa.in.gov to enroll. This is when you will decide if you want coaching support to achieve your improvement goals or want a rating visit.
Step 4
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Once enrolled, you will receive an email from quality support team that includes an enrollment letter and PTQ certificate.
Step 5
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Follow the email directions for next steps.
How to Advance on Paths to QUALITY
Advancement is based on staff education and training, learning environment improvements, curriculum and child outcomes and obtaining accreditation for Level 4. Programs can move at their own pace, fast track in certain situations and receive support each step of the way.
PTQ standards for different types of care
Ready to Get Started?
You are not alone in this process. You’ll have access to technical assistance, professional development opportunities, readiness checklists and tools, and ongoing guidance to meet standards.
Check out FAQs here, email Quality Support or call 1.800.299.1627 today!
Already a provider? Check out our Paths to QUALITY marketing toolkit.