Important updates to the Paths to QUALITY™ (PTQ) system began on Oct. 1, 2025. These changes were designed to make the process simpler, reduce extra visits, and better support continuous quality in early care and education. For questions regarding PTQ, email qualitysupport@fssa.in.gov.

What Providers Need to Know: 

• Level 4 Programs: PTQ will no longer conduct rating visits for Level 4 programs. To keep your Level 4 rating, complete the Change in PTQ Level Form and send proof of accreditation to qualitysupport@fssa.in.gov. 

• Level 2 and Level 3 Programs: Rating visits will now happen every two years. Some programs will get a one-year extension, while others will have a visit this year and then move to the two-year cycle. The Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning will email you directly if your program receives an extension. 

• Unannounced Visits: Starting Oct. 1, all PTQ visits will be unannounced and will take place within the quarter of your expiration date. This change supports consistent quality practices every day, not just during scheduled visits. 

• Changing Your PTQ Level: To increase or decrease your PTQ level, submit the Change in PTQ Level Form no later than 30 days before the quarter when your rating expires or six months after a maintenance or increase visit. 

Act Now: 

• Check your program's expiration date
• Watch your email for any extension notifications
• Download the Change in PTQ Level Form
• Review FAQs on the Brighter Futures PTQ page 
  

Steps to Follow:  

• Complete the Indiana Non-Formal Application and include the following:
  • Copy of center license or early childhood program license administered by the Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning
  • Copy of recent 30 days of income or two paystubs from the last 30 days
  • Copy of driver's license or state issued ID card (Indiana) 
  • Copy of high school diploma or HSE certificate/GED certificate
  • Family Childcare Owners must submit the first two pages of 2024 1040 Tax Form and the 2024 Schedule C Tax Form 
• Please submit the complete application packet as one PDF to NFCDAApps@inaeyc.org. Do not send individual pictures or emails with each document.   

Learn more by visiting the INAEYC website. Email pd@inaeyc.org with any questions. 

Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning (OECOSL) Provider Support Specialists have begun working with providers across the state. This marks the official launch of our two-tiered support model: the OECOSL Child Care Support Line for quick questions and our specialists for more complex or unique needs.  

These specialists bring deep experience in early childhood and school-age care and will focus on helping you resolve issues that require extra time, technical expertise, or hands-on guidance.  

While each specialist will be assigned to a general region, they'll have the flexibility to support providers anywhere in Indiana to make sure no one waits for help. This addition means you'll have faster access to answers for everyday questions while still getting personalized assistance for more complicated situations.  

Providers should always first direct their questions to the OECOSL Child Care Support Line, using the same phone number previously used by the SPARK Help Desk at 1-800-299-1627. The Child Care Support Line will refer more involved queries to our specialists.