CREEHS
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2025 GNJK Standards – Rating Information, Documentation and Training Requirements for Center-based Programs

Welcome to Grow NJ Kids Rating at CREEHS!

Please note: Starting October 1, 2025, all center-based program types may submit for rating using the 2025 Revised Grow NJ Kids Standards. Programs may also submit for rating using the original, 2015 GNJK Standards until January 31, 2026. As of February 1, 2026, all center-based programs must submit for their Grow NJ Kids Rating using the 2025 Revised Standards, and the 2015 GNJK Standards will be retired.

The information included below is for programs that intend to submit for rating using the 2025 Revised GNJK Standards. If your program intends to submit for rating using the 2015 Grow NJ Kids Standards, review the 2015 GNJK Standards – Rating Information for Center-based Programs.

Note: Ratings eligibility and processes vary by program type. Additional information can be found on the Grow NJ Kids Rating Protocol for Center-based Programs.

To initiate an Official GNJK rating with the 2025 Revised Standards:

  1. Complete the Star Rating Readiness Checklist.
  2. Upload the following documentation to the NJCCIS File Cabinet:
    • Evidence for all required and optional GNJK Quality Standards
    • Staff list including each staff member’s:
      • Hire date
      • NJCCIS ID
      • Role
      • Full-time or part-time status
    • List of dates of birth for all children enrolled in each Infant and Toddler classroom  (format: MM/DD/YY)
    • Classroom schedules for all classrooms at the program
  3. Complete the “File for Rating” process via the Grow NJ Kids panel in NJCCIS
  4. Submit the Two-Month Observation Window Request Form to request your preferred two-month observation window
  5. Notify the GNJK Rating Team by emailing GNJKRating@montclair.edu. Include the following in your email:
    • Total number of Infant/Toddler and Preschool/Pre-Kindergarten classrooms in the program building
    • Indicate whether any classrooms are self-contained

Rating Resources and Guidance Documents:

– 2025 Grow NJ Kids Quality Standards for Early Care and Education Programs
– At-a-Glance: Grow NJ Kids Professional Development
– At-a-Glance: Grow NJ Kids Quality Standards for Early Care and Education Programs
– GNJK Standards Alignment Overview – Head Start and NAEYC
– Grow NJ Kids Rating Protocol for Center-based Programs

Coming Soon:
– Grow NJ Kids Standards Resource Guide