COLORADO SHINES QUALITY IMPROVEMENT

Colorado Shines* is the state’s Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) for all licensed early learning programs. Colorado Shines supports programs to improve their quality and to connect with families looking for quality care.

Colorado Shines Quality Improvement funds and coaching are available for licensed child care programs rated at a Colorado Shines Level 1 or higher and participating in the Colorado Shines Quality Improvement process either through a Colorado Shines rating or through the Alternative Pathway process.

Denver’s Early Childhood Council works with individual child care programs participating in the Colorado Shines QRIS, helping them access support for coaching, training, and classroom materials through Colorado Shines Quality Improvement funds. For more information, contact Karen Thiel at karen@denverearlychildhood.org.

Our Quality Navigators can help you:

• Understand and move through the Colorado Shines and QRIS systems
• Provide guidance and support as your program works toward a Colorado Shines rating
• Create a detailed, impactful, and up-to-date Quality Improvement Plan
• Access quality incentive funding, training, and coaching

Learn more about the Quality Navigation services we offer.

*NOTE: 2026 changes to the Colorado Shines Level 3-5 rating process can be found on the Colorado Shines QRIS Refresh Information page.