> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://title5.caqualityearlylearning.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://title5.caqualityearlylearning.org/program-quality/environment-rating-scales-program-quality.md).

# Environment Rating Scales - Program Quality

18281

(a) Center-based programs and family child care home networks shall complete an environment rating scale as defined in subsection 18270.5(f) of this Chapter, that is appropriate for the type of setting and age of children served, to measure program quality: 

              (1) Every three (3) years as part of the program compliance review; and 

              (2) Annually as part of the self-evaluation process. 

(b) For each environment rating scale completed, the contractor shall achieve a minimum average score of “Good” on each subscale.

> NOTE: Authority cited: Section 8261, Education Code. Reference: Section 8203, Education Code.


---

# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.

## Querying This Documentation
If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the following URL with the `ask` and `goal` query parameters:

```
GET https://title5.caqualityearlylearning.org/program-quality/environment-rating-scales-program-quality.md?ask=<question>&goal=<user_goal>
```

`ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
`goal` is what the user is ultimately trying to achieve, the reason they need the answer. Sharing it helps GitBook give you a better, more relevant answer. A goal is most helpful when it describes the outcome the user wants rather than restating the question. For example, with `ask=how do I create an API token`, a goal like `automate deployments from our CI pipeline` lets GitBook tailor the answer to that use case.

The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.