Congratulations!

On behalf of the Bureau of Child Development and Head Start Collaboration, we would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the following programs on achieving a step in the Granite Steps for Quality System.

Upcoming Training Opportunities

Environment Rating Scales (ERS)-Child Care Aware of NH

Join the Community of Practice: Beyond the Intro and Overview for Environment Rating Scales! Take your understanding of ERS to new depths as we delve into its intricacies. Engage with fellow providers, gain valuable insights, and elevate your professional knowledge. Don't miss this chance to expand your expertise and enhance your approach to ERS!

July Session

Date: Tuesday, July 25, 2023

Time: 6:00 to 7:30 PM

Trainer: Katelynn Karugu, ECMPWT

Location: Online Zoom Training

Child Care Aware of NH, a program of Southern NH Services, will continue offering Intro and Overview of the Environment Rating Scales (ERS) training sessions throughout the summer to accommodate providers looking to achieve a step in the Granite Steps for Quality System.

Learn more about the ERS tools and how to use them to improve program practices. There are both evening and afternoon options available for the convenience of providers.

July Sessions

Date: Wednesday, July 19, 2023

Time: 6:00-7:30 PM

Trainer: CCAoNH Staff

Location: Online Zoom Training

Date: Wednesday, July 26, 2023

Time: 12:30-2:00 PM

Trainer: CCAoNH Staff

Location: Online Zoom Training

The Pyramid Model

Are you looking for Pyramid Model trainings?



Through a joint collaboration, the NH Department of Education and the NH Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Economic and Housing Stability, Bureau of Child Development and Head Start Collaboration are bringing you three (3) online Pyramid Model packages through ProSolutions. Each Pyramid Model package is comprised of three (3), six (6) hour modules for a total of up to 18 hours of professional development. These packages are free to NH teachers and early childhood providers.

If your program would benefit from more hands-on assistance, consider applying for one of Child Care Aware of NH's Progressive Training and TA Programs (PT&TAP).

Check out the Technical Assistance page on NH Connections for more information, or feel free to contact us by phone at

603-578-1386 ext. 2532, or by email at CCRRTA@snhs.org.

GSQ Prerequisites

For programs that are applying for a step in the Granite Steps for Quality System, the program administrator must complete two (2) Business Practices Trainings – available on ProSolutions.

Accepted Business Practices Trainings are as follows:



• Taking Care of Business: An Administrator’s Overview
• Leading With Heart: How to Build Effective Teams
• Successful Coaching and Mentoring for Employee Growth
• An Administrator’s Overview of Assessment in Early Care and Education
• Creating a Business Plan for Your Family Child Care Program**
• Budgeting and Financial Planning for Your Family Child Care Program**

** These two (2) Business Practices Trainings are only accepted for Family Child Care Programs

Where Can I Find All of the GSQ Resources, FAQ's, and Guides?

Quick Links

• NH Connections Granite Steps for Quality Page
• Granite Steps for Quality Application
• Granite Steps for Quality FAQ's (updated 4.3.23)
• NH Connections Credentialing Page
• NH Connections Environment Rating Scales Page
• NH Connections Social Emotional Development and Learning Page
• ACROSS NH GSQ Page
• New Hampshire Pyramid Model

Who Can I Contact if I Have Additional Questions or Need Assistance?

For any questions or concerns you may have regarding GSQ, please consult the guide and FAQ's first. If you are still unable to find an answer to your question, you can reach out to the following organizations/individuals:

• BCDHSC Professional Development Specialist
• Email: NHGSQ@dhhs.nh.gov
• Phone: 603-271-9304
• BCDHSC Credentialing Specialist
• Email: CredentialMe@dhhs.nh.gov
• Phone: 603-271-4684
• Child Care Aware of NH
• Email: ccrrta@snhs.org
• Phone: 603-578-1386 ext. 2532
• ACROSS NH
• Email: acrossnh@seresc.net
• Phone: 603-206-6848
• Pyramid Model:
• Email: joan.izen@gmail.com
• Preschool Technical Assistance Network (PTAN)
• Email: PTANCoordinator@gmail.com
• Phone: 603-865-7145

Staff Qualifications