How to Implement the CLASS® framework
Continuous quality improvement is a cyclical journey. Quality improvement efforts must be intentional and systematic to lead to long-term, sustainable progress. CLASS is unique in two ways:
- It offers a framework and resources that align with a plan-do-study-act approach.
- It empowers an ongoing journey toward improvement with flexible offerings that meet your needs.
Focus
Build a foundation where meaningful interactions can thrive. Help your program understand why educator-child interactions are key.
- Create a clear vision
- Prepare people for change
- Establish foundational knowledge of quality interactions
We offer intro courses for leaders and educators to build that CLASS foundation.
Measure
Once you’ve built that buy-in, create a system that drives data-informed improvement. CLASS data measures educator-child interactions in your program, and collecting this data will guide continuous improvement. Because the CLASS framework offers a shared lens for understanding effectiveness, new educator training and continuing education are made easier.
Create your program’s plan to secure certified CLASS observers:
- Train your staff to become observers.
- Find a local certified observer to complete observations.
- Develop a custom plan for building observer capacity and collecting observations.
Improve
Now that you’ve laid the foundation and started collecting baseline data, you’re ready to drive continuous improvement throughout your program. Use CLASS data to understand strengths and areas for growth. Make data-informed decisions to create tailored professional development and coaching opportunities that help educators improve their practices.
Support the educators in your program in earning their credentials and creating a learning environment that fosters high-quality interactions. For even greater impact, create opportunities for your staff to explore CLASS Coaching. Our training and certification programs equip them to coach effectively using the CLASS framework, provide specific, actionable feedback grounded in the CLASS tool, and strengthen educators’ impact.
Support the educators in your program in earning their credentials and creating learning environments that promote effective interactions.
Thinking about using CLASS as your quality improvement measure? Download our comprehensive Implementation Guide.
Explore More
Ready to learn more about the CLASS tool and what it could mean for your program? Connect with a CLASS Consultant to get started on your journey today.