The Humboldt Quality Counts Consortium is proud to recognize and celebrate the participants in the Quality Counts Humboldt (QCC) programs for 2024-25.
QCC Humboldt supports the innovation and implementation of quality early education in real time and in ways that recognize and reward the dedication and professionalism of early education/child care providers. In addition to high quality coaching, professional development training, and one-on-one support, a total of $221,958 went directly to 92 participating early education programs and providers.
Roxana Hernandez, owner and operator of Hernandez Family Child Care, shared that “Being at QCC was one of the most incredible experiences for me this year: the connections with my teammates, coaches, and trainers. I often thought I wouldn’t be able to complete the hours, but the support from the entire team made all the difference. It was also gratifying to share my experiences and put all the training into practice at my workplace. It was a surprise to me that we were rewarded with a check, which personally helped me a lot during these difficult times. I hope to repeat the QCC experience this year.”
Quality Counts Humboldt (QCC) is part of the initiatives across the country that improve and support the quality of early care and education programs. Research shows that when children receive high quality care and education during their early years of life, they are better prepared for school, better readers, and are more likely to graduate high school. These outcomes benefit every child and family in our community.
“QCC has helped to elevate the quality of my program by creating strong networks of early education professionals supporting each other,” reflected Linda Powell, owner and operator of Powell Family Child Care (PFCC), 2025 Friend of the Young Child Legacy Award Winner from Redwood Coast Chapter of California Association for the Education of Young Children, “Even after 40 years, I feel like there is an opportunity to learn every time we come together”
QCC Humboldt is made possible by the QCC Consortium consisting of a dedicated group of organizations, staff, participants, and coaches with funding from the California Department of Education, California Department of Social Services-Child Care Development Division, First 5 California and First 5 Humboldt.
Be sure to look for the QCC certificate at your local early education provider!
Interested in QCC Humboldt? Want to know more about child care quality? Learn more at https:/changingtidesfs.org/qcc.
The QCC Humboldt Consortium is a long-term collaboration across many partners, including Humboldt County Office of Education, Changing Tides Family Services, First 5 Humboldt, Northcoast Children’s Services, College of the Redwoods, Cal Poly Humboldt, the Yurok Tribe and the Hoopa Valley Tribe.
This article appears in My Humboldt Life January 2026.