Quality Enhancement Consultation for ECERS-R rated classrooms

After having an ECERS-R assessment, Directors and/or Teachers are often at a loss for what to do next.  The report and profile may indicate that there are areas that need improvement.  The specific information obtained for each indicator may be helpful, but the question arises: What exactly should be done to correct these issues? 

That is where I, Cindy Rzasa Bess. Ph.D., can be of assistance.   As an ECERS-R Trainer and Rater for the State of Connecticut, I have observed hundreds of classrooms and can see areas of strength as well as areas in need of improvement in the early childhood environment.  I have a vast and strong working knowledge of the entire ECERS-R process, a great deal of direct experience with the measure and a solid background in Child Development and Early Childhood Education.  

In addition, I have authored a book, The View from the Little Chair in the Corner on Early Childhood Classroom observation that directly discusses the rationale for providing high quality environments for young children. The “hows,” “whos” and “whats” of Early Childhood Education are discussed in-depth.  But more importantly, the “whys” behind the work are examined and reviewed to make a strong argument for high quality practice.  Many anecdotes from my extensive observation history are described at length to show the diversity of ECE classroom environments.  Then, these “snapshots” are reflected upon to show how some situations can yield wonderful results while others can be quite counter-productive.   Lastly, the entire example is placed within the greater context of providing high quality care allowing the teacher to see how making changes, based on an understanding early child development and utilizing best practice, can yield a high quality experience for all involved. 

 
Looking to Improve your Infant/Toddler Environment?
The same quality enhancement programs listed above are available for your I/T caregivers.  Take advantage of the feedback, coaching sessions and workshops, and make your "Under Three" program as strong as your Preschool program.

Coaching

Even the best players need a coach to help them succeed.  Why not employ a coach at your program... someone who can provide direct feedback on classroom set-up, teacher-child interactions, materials, and curriculum implementation. 

I could come to your program and spend an hour or two, read your ECERS-R report with you and help you make the changes that will improve the environment. 

The next step is simple.  Contact Cindy and find out more about this short-term service. 

Why not make use of this expertise in your own program by hiring Cindy Rzasa Bess, Ph.D. as a short-term Quality Enhancement Consultant.  In this capacity, I can:

    • review the ECERS-R report with the Director or Teacher, highlight both the 
            strengths and weaknesses, and put all statements in a proper context

    • explain the requirements of the ECERS-R and the scoring the classroom received 
            in terms that make sense

    • assist a program in defining an Action Plan to address areas that are in need 
            improvement

    • directly assist teachers in the classroom to address issues

    • define strategies for improvement (e.g., assist in room arrangement, identify 
            materials that are needed in the centers, refine the daily schedule to meet 
            substantial portion of the day requirements, etc.)

    • provide ninety-minute or two hour in-service trainings in one or all of the following 
            areas related to the ECERS-R -                 

        Setting up the Environment  
        Understanding Health and Safety Issues
        The Importance of Language and Literacy in the Early Childhood Setting  
        Providing a Solid Center Based Program
        Effective and Empathetic Interactions between Adults and Children

The most important point to realize is this- The more you know about your program – the better it will be for all.