All Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC) and Chicago Public Schools (CPS), Preschool for All (PFA), and Preschool for All Expansion (PFAE) programs participate in ExceleRate Illinois. A state approved assessor conducts on-site classroom assessments and monitoring using the ECERS-3/CLASS and the PFA/PFAE Compliance Checklist prescribed by IDEC in accordance with the IDEC monitoring schedule. Assignment of an ExceleRate Circle of Quality occurs by designated IDEC staff for school-based sites.
Any technical assistance and/ or training needs for PFA/PFAE programs should be coordinated with IDEC and their contracted Partners including Early Childhood Professional Learning, STAR NET, and Early Choices.
PFA or PFAE programs that have one or more licensed classrooms must apply via the Licensed Child Care Center Path.
Standards and Evidence for Preschool for All/Preschool for All Expansion Programs are available at: