Save the Date: BUILD27
August 2 - 4
BUILD27 will expand on the momentum of BUILD25, a meeting that saw over a thousand leaders gather to explore “The Heart of the Matter.” Participants drew inspiration from music and spoken word performances as they built relationships, shared tools, and strengthened the field – and showed the power of coming together, even in times of uncertainty.
As unease persists, BUILD remains committed to holding space for clarity and connection that makes coordinated action possible. At BUILD27, we will provide spaces for learning, collaboration, and renewed energy for the work ahead. We will support early childhood leaders as we continue our efforts to expand access, deepen equity and inclusion, and create intentional feedback loops among system leaders, practitioners, families, and communities. With a focus on peer learning, networking, and fun, BUILD will create a space where systems thinking and innovation are not just discussed but practiced.
Explore More
Leading an Early Childhood Team Through the Quality Improvement Process
Article October 7, 2026
Published in Young Children, this 2024 article provides an operational guide for aligning state QIS requirements with broader national standards, quality grants, and staff incentives.
Much-Needed Changes in Child Care Quality Rating and Improvement Systems Should Promote Equity
Blog October 7, 2026
Blog authors Gina Adams and Danielle Ewen outline systemic flaws in traditional models. This 2024 blog details how traditional QRIS frameworks often inadequately support parents, underinvest in actual center improvement, and inadvertently exacerbate funding inequalities among diverse childcare providers.
Four Trends in Early Care and Education Quality Rating and Improvement Systems
Fact Sheet October 7, 2026
This 2024 brief evaluates Parent Aware (Minnesota's system) and synthesizes interviews across six states (Delaware, Louisiana, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Washington). It identifies critical, modern pathways for administrators looking to overhaul and redesign state frameworks.