SPQA

Lisa Mulliken

At the start of each workday, the first thing I do is refer to the “to-do” list that sits on my desk. The list gives me a visual picture of what I need to accomplish each day and crossing things off the list gives me a feeling of accomplishment. I recently had to get my driver’s license renewed. As I entered, I took a number, sat down, and watched the screen telling me which number they were currently helping, and which number was up next. I hate waiting so having a countdown of sorts helped me wait and know that I would be helped soon and able to get on with my day. As I drove home, I followed the visual traffic signals that let me know when to stop and go and where to turn. When I’m at the gym, I refer to my watch to see how much longer I need to exercise to meet my goal. All these things are examples of visual supports. Visual supports are pictures, images, or signs that communicate expectations or information.

Erin DelRegno Evans

“Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” Fred Rogers

 Who doesn’t remember playing when they were young? Coming up with your own games, playing outside almost every day whether sunny, snowy, or rainy. We were free to explore, try new things, make our own decisions, and it wasn’t directed by our parents. Sadly, children don’t have as much freedom to play as we once did.

Leah Zabari

Yesterday I was in a toddler classroom when two children slowly walked by me. One of the toddlers went up to the other and gently took hold of his friend’s hand. They proceeded to walk around the room together holding hands and interacting. It was such a sweet moment that was only captured by me, the observer. It’s not often I get to see those subtle and sweet peer relationships and it truly made me smile the rest of the day.

The Program Quality Assessment (PQA) Team is available to support you in the Internal Assessment Process (IAP) by completing an on-site assessment in your program. In addition to the Environment Rating Scales® (ERS) and Classroom Observation Scoring System® (CLASS®) this opportunity is available for all Program Observation Instruments (POIs) listed in the Keystone STARS Standards.