Dear Provider, 

The Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning (OECOSL) is making changes to the Paths to QUALITY™ (PTQ) system starting Oct. 1, 2025. These updates will make the process easier, reduce extra visits, and better match national best practices for child care quality. 

Here's what you need to know: 

• Level 4 Programs: PTQ will no longer conduct visits for Level 4 programs because these programs are already reviewed by their accrediting organization. To keep your Level 4 rating or advance to a Level 4 in the future, complete the Change in PTQ Level form and send proof of accreditation to qualitysupport@fssa.in.gov. 

• Level 2 and 3 Programs: Rating visits will now happen every two years instead of annually. During the transition, some programs will get a one-year extension. Others will still have a visit this year and then move to a two-year schedule. OECOSL will email you directly if your program gets an extension.

• Unannounced Visits: Starting Oct. 1, all PTQ visits will be unannounced. Visits will happen sometime in the quarter when your rating is set to expire: Jan-Mar, Apr-Jun, Jul-Sep, or Oct-Dec. You will not be told the exact date in advance. You will receive an email before the quarter of your rating visit, which will allow you to submit your staff list and any closure dates. A confirmation checklist will no longer be required. This change helps make sure quality practices are in place every day, not just when a visit is scheduled. 

• Changing Your PTQ Level: If you want to move up or down a level, you must fill out the Change in PTQ Level form. To move up a level, send the form at least 30 days before the quarter when your current rating expires. Your program will get a maintenance visit if you miss this deadline, and you'll need to request a level change later. 

• Level Transfers: The process for transferring your PTQ level is not changing. A rating will still be required within 30 days. 

You will receive an email soon with the documents needed for your rating or if your expiration date has been extended. If you have questions, email qualitysupport@fssa.in.gov or visit the Paths to QUALITY™ website. 

Thank you for your continued work to provide high-quality care and education for Indiana's children and families. 

Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning