ACCESS has defined Benchmarks for the system as a whole. Collectively these benchmarks and their indicators form the basis for early childcare systems development and the focus for collaborative efforts. While local collaboratives and committees have different structures and operated very differently, the Benchmarks are the common thread.

Accreditation:
Accreditation is a comprehensive approach to improving the quality of a childcare program. Every family will have access to accredited childcare programs. Support will be provided to all programs seeking accreditation.

By 2005, 20% of all programs will be accredited (as defined)
By 2010, 50% of all programs will be accredited (as defined)

Business Involvement:
Business partnerships need to be developed so that there is a commitment to understanding and an embracing the early care and education issues and to generating solutions that will benefit the workplace, employees, and the children in Maine communities.

By 2002, brochures will be available to all childcare providers outlining business support available.
By 2005, the childcare industry in Maine will have made significant strides towards bridging existing cultural differences between the business and childcare communities.
By 2004, 3 State Collaboratives will have developed/created a system for implementing administrative efficiencies (cost saving structures)
By 2005, partnerships with the business community that develop childcare quality and increase the childcare supply in Maine will double.

Capacity:
Because every family and every child is unique, all families in Maine need access to quality childcare choices regardless of income, geography, and special circumstances. Families deserve childcare they choose, not childcare they are forced to accept.

By 2005, 50% of eligible children will be served in the setting of their choice. Every community with an elementary school will have a school age program.
By 2010, we will be able to serve 100% of the eligible children.

Education and Training:
ACCESS promotes education and training as a pathway to the provision of high quality childcare for Maine's children and families. ACCESS will work with other groups to develop an Early Childhood Education professional development system that will be inclusive and honor the existing capacities of all providers and encourage them to develop professionally. ACCESS encourages the implementation of any and all training to be affordable, accessible, and available to all providers.

By 2005, ___% of ECE providers will have a CDA or higher in a related field. 50% of caregivers will be registered.
By 2010, ___% of ECE providers will have a CDA or higher in a related field. 80% of caregivers will be registered.

Parent Involvement:
By 2005, every ACCESS collaborative will have active parent participation.

Salary:
Children benefit most from long term relationships with caring, educated caregivers. Quality childcare is directly linked to staff salaries. Higher salaries attract and retain qualified and educated staff.

By 2005, ___% of staff will earn ____salary with ___benefits. (numbers not currently defined)