Self-assessment is a process that, when planned well and conducted comprehensively, can yield useful information to improve program quality and help a program understand how well it is functioning. Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) require that Head Start/Early Head Start grantees conduct an annual self-assessment, but this is much more than a check-the-box activity.
In any program year, self-assessment is an integral part of continuous program improvement. This is true more than ever now that so many programs have completed – or will complete – a Change in Scope Request to reduce or convert Head Start/Early Head Start slots. In fact, the Office of Head Start (OHS), identifies self-assessment as one of the required data considerations for a Change in Scope Request. Self-assessment is a valuable part of the roadmap of where a program has been and where it is headed.
Through self-assessment, programs evaluate their effectiveness in providing program services and identify strengths and areas in need of improvement. For programs completing a Change in Scope Request, the self-assessment will help the program determine the right program design, as well as ensure its internal systems can support the changes (e.g., program goals, compliance with standards, and effectiveness of professional development and family engagement systems).
We recommend you follow OHS’ five-stage process for self-assessment: design, engagement of team, analysis and dialogue, recommendations development, and report preparation. Because the requirements of self-assessment are broad, there is flexibility to design a process, data collection, and action items that meet the needs of your program.
Before you can begin the design phase, however, it’s important to spend some time in the pre-planning phase. During the pre-planning phase, identify what your program will focus on beyond the basic requirements of self-assessment. Consider aligning priorities with your program’s upcoming monitoring reviews or, if your program is in considering a Change in Scope Request, the data that you will need to support that process.
For example, if your program has an upcoming Focus Area 2 review, align self-assessment priorities with the Focus Area Two Monitoring Protocol. Review the protocol and pinpoint areas that could be a challenge for your program (e.g., enrollment). These are areas that you should prioritize in your self-assessment. In doing so, you will have an opportunity to reflect and develop a plan for improvement – a plan that can be implemented prior to the monitoring review and/or support a Change in Scope.
These proactive steps for self-assessment will help to lay the foundation for a successful path forward. And, with a thoughtful, priority-driven design self-assessment, your program will be better equipped with useful data and information to support program quality and any changes to its program design and/or service delivery.
Foundations for Families’ Consulting Services include self-assessment among many other services to support programs. Please be in touch to learn more. We would be glad to speak with you about your program’s needs.
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