Under the Professional Development System (PDS), child care providers and/or director/owners are recognized for their experience and education in the childcare field by "levels."

Career Pathway Information
Steps to Complete the Anniversary and Level Move Incentive Form
Disagree with Career Pathway Level Placement

For more information contact:
IdahoSTARS Registry Office
1471 Shoreline Dr., Suite 202
Boise, ID  83702
Phone: Call the 2-1-1 Idaho CareLine by dialing 2-1-1 or 1800-926-2588
8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday - Friday and ask for the IdahoSTARS Registry Office.

Those registered in the PDS are recognized for their experience in the early child care field. A child care provider or director/owner’s experience and education will earn a certain “level” on the Career Pathway. The Career Pathway Level Chart () outlines the requirements and options for professional growth and success.

To receive a Career Pathway Move read the following steps:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

• You have earned enough IdahoSTARS approved training hours or college credits and work experience to move a level. Look at Career Pathway Level Chart () to make sure you have the required training/credits and work experience to move a level.
• Work in a child care setting that cares for children while parent(s) or guardian(s) work or attend training/school for at least 15 hours per week.
• Work in a program that operates full time.
• Earn $15.00/hour or less.
• Be in early childhood profession at least 6 months

Step 2: Fill out and Attach

• Fill out the Anniversary and Level Move Incentive Form ()
  Directors/Owners Only - As the Owner/Director you must fill out and sign Section D of the form.
  Child Care Providers Only - As the Provider your Owner/Director must fill out and sign Section D of the form.
• Checking the Box for: Career Pathway Level Move on first page of form.
• Attach proof that trainings/college credits were completed with certificates or verification from the IdahoSTARS training office from attendance sheets or college transcripts.
• Attach the following documents:
  • Current Child Care Facility License (City or State)
  • Current Pediatric CPR & First Aid Certification
  • Current Child Care Workers License (if applicable)
  • Child Care Provider Only - Attach Current Pay Stub
  • Director/Owner Only - Attach Director/Owner of Facility Income Worksheet

Step 3: Mail

Mail the form and all required documents to:
IdahoSTARS Registry Office
1471 Shoreline Dr., Ste 202
Boise, Idaho 83702

If you disagree with Career Pathway Level and believe that your education, training, work experience, or other documents should be re-evaluate you may appeal within 10 days of receiving your placement letter. The Registry Review Committee will review your application and you will receive a letter explaining what they decided and why. If you still believe the placement level is wrong, an outside third party will be used.

The following documents must be presented for an appeal:

• Cover Letter describing why you wish to appeal.
• Additional documentation about course content, projects, independent study credits, and other items you feel might be helpful.
• Proof of informal (non-credit) training hours that you have completed in the 10 Core Knowledge Areas.