The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) selected the Children’s Learning Institute as the centralized assessment entity (CAE) for the Texas Rising Star program in April 2023. In collaboration with TWC and the Local Workforce Development Boards (Boards), CAE’s role is to oversee the statewide roster of qualified early childhood Assessors who evaluate early learning programs (ELP; child care programs) participating in the Texas Rising Star program. Centralized statewide management of Texas Rising Star Assessors and assessment activities ensures greater consistency and reliability of star-level ratings for all ELP.
This manual outlines the protocols and processes staff will follow in adhering to the requirements of the Texas Rising Star Certification Guidelines, Texas Rising Star Staff Handbook, and the policies and procedures set forth by the Children’s Learning Institute as CAE for Texas Rising Star.
All activities conducted by the CAE team are aligned with the general guidelines established by TWC and include enhanced detailed procedures and policies. Implementation of assessment and monitoring practices are included in this business manual to provide additional guidance to ensure quality, reliability and equity procedures are followed across the state.