Message from the
President & CEO

I am pleased to welcome the sixth cohort of providers into Quality Counts (QC). A total of 19 North Miami-Dade center-based programs make up cohort #6.

The group attended a reception and training workshop hosted by the Early Learning Coalition on September 30, 2009. Systems partner, Family Central, Inc., will provide technical assistance and support to the participating providers.

Over the next several weeks, North Cohort 6 will complete its self study profile and take part in Infant and Toddler Environment Rating Scale and Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-training at the United Way Center for Excellence. Additionally, the group will work with the Quality Counts Career Center to gain entry into The Registry and access WAGES and Scholarships (for all eligible staff). This process will culminate in a formal environmental rating by Devereux Foundation assessors. Finally, a baseline rating will be set that paves the way for a year of quality improvement as well as access to grants and awards.

The next QC selection for the South sector of Miami-Dade County is scheduled for November. If you are interested in learning more about Quality Counts, please call 305- 646-7242 or visit the Coalition's website at www.elcmdm.org.

As always, I remain at your service.
Sincerely,
Evelio C. Torres
President & CEO
Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe