What is Colorado Shines?
Since 2015, Colorado has used the Colorado Shines Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) to measure and improve the quality of licensed early childhood programs serving children from birth to age 5. All licensed childcare programs participate in Colorado Shines and receive a rating from Level 1 to Level 5. Programs automatically receive a Level 1 rating and can choose to work toward higher ratings. Funding, coaching, and other quality improvement supports are available to help providers improve their programs.
Colorado Shines helps families find licensed, quality-rated childcare and supports providers in creating safe, nurturing, and educational environments for children. The rating system helps programs understand, improve, and communicate the quality of the care they provide. Using research-based standards, Colorado Shines gives early childhood programs a clear path for ongoing quality improvement.
Changes to the Colorado Shines Ratings in 2026-CDEC is currently updating the state’s quality system. While CDEC designs the new system, they have introduced a simplified, temporary process for achieving a Colorado Shines Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) Level 3, known as ‘Provisional Level 3,’ along with updated guidelines for Level 4.
Colorado Shines Rating Process At-A-Glance
A Colorado Shines rating is a symbol of quality. The Colorado Shines rating is a guarantee to families that your program is licensed, in good standing and meets basic health and safety standards.
Colorado Shines rates the quality of Colorado’s early learning programs, on a scale of 1 to 5, based on how well your program:
Once you receive a rating, Colorado Shines provides support to help your program continue to improve its quality. Colorado Shines is a flexible process that can be customized to meet the needs of each program.
Quick Links
Colorado Shines website
Colorado Shines is the official website for early childhood programs and families. It provides information on licensing, Colorado Shines quality ratings, and a searchable directory of licensed child care and preschool programs.
RMECC Quality Improvement Journey Packet (QIJ)
The QIJ is a provider guide that helps licensed early childhood programs navigate the Colorado Shines quality system. It includes step-by-step information on ratings, coaching, quality improvement planning, available funding, and resources to support programs as they strengthen the quality of care they provide.
CSQI Provider Resources
This folder contains important documents, resources, and templates that are specific to our Council region and will support you throughout your Colorado Shines journey. Please let us know if you are unable to access these documents!
Professional Development Information System (PDIS)
The PDIS is Colorado’s online learning and professional development system for early childhood professionals. It allows educators to complete training, track professional development, manage credentials and qualifications, and maintain their professional records in one place.