As part of the development phase of Rhode Island’s BrightStars quality rating and improvement system (QRIS), nine parent focus groups were held in different regions of the state to determine what mattered most to them and to gather their input on the proposed standards. The discussions were held in English, Spanish, and Cambodian and reached 106 parents, mostly mothers. The steering committee that guided the development and oversaw the implementation of BrightStars had a parent representative from the Rhode Island Parent Information Network, an information and support agency for Rhode Island parents.
Annual community meetings, open to all, were held for 3 years to engage other partners, report progress, and get feedback. These well-attended meetings were widely promoted through professional association networks, community-based organizations, advocacy groups, and state-funded projects using email lists and websites.
A diverse 30-member steering committee oversaw the development of BrightStars and guided its implementation. The committee met quarterly or more frequently, if needed, to advise, guide, and act as a sounding board on policies and big decisions about BrightStars. Steering committee members championed BrightStars in the community and through their connections with other groups. Although 4 years was a long time to develop a QRIS, participants said “it [was] worth it” because the time allowed for ample communication and involvement. It was easy for anyone in Rhode Island to know about BrightStars and have a say in its development. Ultimately, even those who were not 100 percent satisfied with the program were still able to support it.