Early care and education programs can apply for AQIS Individualized Support if they are working toward achieving or maintaining NAEYC Recognition, NAEYC Accreditation, or NAEYC Accreditation+. AQIS Individualized Supports are also for family child care homes pursuing NAEYC accreditation.
Approved programs commit to:
- A monthly visit with an AQIS facilitator to work on the program’s NAEYC Accreditation timeline and program improvement plan
- A monthly support group meeting to learn about NAEYC updates and develop a support network of peers
Approved programs can expect:
- Phone and email access to your AQIS facilitator for NAEYC Accreditation support
- Priority enrollment for you and your program staff in free professional development.
How long will my program receive support?
We require active engagement in AQIS Individualized Support activities. Support is ongoing until either the program completes its NAEYC submission or the AQIS agreement end date passes.
Can my program apply?
Programs that meet ALL the following criteria are encouraged to apply:
- Programs that meet NAEYC Accreditation eligibility AND are currently OEC licensed or license exempt
- Programs that are planning initial Recognition, Accreditation, or Accreditation+; OR renewal with a valid until date through January 1, 2028
- Programs that commit to actively and consistently working toward NAEYC Accreditation within the timeline of the issued agreement if awarded AQIS Individualized Support.
How do I apply?
● Submit a completed application by 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 2, 2025.
● Submit the completed application by uploading the application directly in your program’s OEC Registry account, or emailing it to OEC.Accreditation@ct.gov.
- To upload in the Registry: You must have administrative / multi-site administrative access to the program in the OEC Registry. If you need help, please contact your Registry regional education advisor.
● Attend an NAEYC Overview Session to learn more about the NAEYC Accreditation process:
- Virtual (hosted by ACES/CREC) Friday, September 12, 2025, 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM, click here to register.
- Virtual (hosted by CES): Monday, September 15, 2025, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, click here to register.
How will I know if my program is accepted to AQIS Individualized Support?
Programs will receive notification of AQIS Individualized Support award by October 10, 2025. The email will include a welcome message and next steps. AQIS Individualized Support activities begin November 1, 2025.
Who should I contact with questions?
Reach out to AQIS staff in your region.