Bright & Early ND is North Dakota's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS). It is designed to assess, support, and recognize quality in early childhood programs across the state. Administered by North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS), Bright & Early ND is a key strategy for quality improvement, as established in North Dakota Century Code 50-11.1.
Bright & Early ND: Framework Changes
March 2025
We're updating the Bright & Early ND framework with early childhood programs in mind. Based on feedback from providers and partners, the framework is becoming clearer, more flexible, and easier to navigate—all while continuing to support high-quality early childhood experiences for children and families across North Dakota.
Bright & Early ND: Reimagining Quality Improvement
June 2026
Beginning August 1, 2026, Bright & Early ND is expanding to better support early childhood programs at every stage of their quality journey. Learn about our quality initiatives designed to help programs build, demonstrate, maintain, and strengthen quality.
Our Mission
We focus on high-quality early childhood experiences that build the foundation children need to thrive in school and in life.
Our Goals
Improve the Quality of Early Childhood Experiences
We want to ensure that all children have access to high-quality early childhood experiences. To achieve this, we will implement a progressive quality improvement system, provide coaching and resources, and track outcomes through standardized assessments and evaluations.
Support and Strengthen the Early Childhood Workforce
Our goal is to equip early childhood professionals with the skills, knowledge, and resources they need to provide high-quality care. We do this by offering ongoing support, specialized training opportunities, and access to financial incentives.
Increase Family Awareness and Engagement
We aim to empower families to make informed choices about their children's care. We raise awareness about the importance of high-quality early childhood experiences and provide families with accessible information and resources.
Why This Work Matters
During the first five years of a child's life, their brain develops faster than at any other time. The experiences they have during this period will shape their future. That's why high-quality early childhood experiences are so important. Children with access to these experiences do better in school, make healthier choices, are more likely to graduate, and find jobs.
Investing in high-quality early childhood experiences is an investment in the future of North Dakota’s children, families, and communities.
Learn More About Bright & Early ND
Whether you're just starting out or ready to take the next step, find the information you need here! Discover how Bright & Early ND works, the benefits of participation, and explore a variety of resources to support your program.
Overview
Learn how Bright & Early ND works, what we measure, and how your program can benefit.
Resources
Find guides, training options, and answers to common questions—all in one place.
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