Illinois Quality Program Self-Assessment (IL-QPSA)

The Illinois Quality Program Self-Assessment (IL-QPSA) is an online strengths-based self-assessment tool allowing individual out-of-school time (OST) providers to self-assess their performance based on the Illinois Statewide Afterschool Quality Standards Framework and consensus-building decision-making model.

This self-assessment process is a contractual requirement for some state and federal grantees; however, all Out of School Time (OST) programs are invited to complete the process as well.

The system has many features, including a catalog of Quality Resources like the IL Top Ten Quality Standards and a pre-assessment survey link (created within the system) that can be emailed to parents/families, youth, and other external partners.

How can your program(s) benefit from using the IL-QPSA?

The IL-QPSA can:

  • Help programs identify and understand the factors that support or inhibit top performance
  • Utilize that information to make data-driven decisions,
  • Foster an environment of continuous quality improvement and growth
  • Maximize positive impacts for staff, youth, families, and community peers
  • Provide programs an opportunity to state publicly that they are committed to program quality and continuous improvement with the Pledge to Quality

Important Documents and Links

IL-QPSA System Access: This site is only for organizations/programs with a login assigned by ACT Now staff.  

System Tips and Tricks:

  • Bookmark the page to ensure easy access, as it is inaccessible via search engines
  • Google Chrome works best
  • Disable cookies/cache in your browser’s settings
  • Use this link to access the system
  • If still unable to access, click ‘Forgot Your Password?’
    • When you try to set the password, does it indicate that it is a ‘good’ or ‘strong’ password?
    • If the password is ‘poor,’ it will not save. Try setting another password.
    • Then, follow the necessary prompts between the system and your email account
  • If you still can’t gain access, contact Jackie Tichler (Quality Improvement Manager) at TichlerJ@actnowillinois.org.

FY25 Syllabus: This provides step-by-step guidance to successful IL-QPSA completion.

Are you ready to take the Pledge to Quality? ACT Now is excited to enter its 7th year of the Illinois Quality Program Self-Assessment (IL-QPSA) process! The IL-QPSA is an online strengths-based self-assessment tool that allows individual out-of-school time (OST) providers the opportunity to self-assess their performance based on the Illinois Statewide Afterschool Quality Standards. Quality isn’t merely an action; it’s a practice that yields positive results for our Illinois youth. This annual initiative empowers you to reflect on your accomplishments, pinpoint areas for enhancement, and reaffirm your dedication to continuous improvement by taking the Pledge to Quality through the IL-QPSA process. 

The FY25 IL-QPSA Syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of what is expected during this year’s IL-QPSA Process and Pledge to Quality. This syllabus will guide you through each step outlined in the checklist below, offering detailed insights into the process. Let’s continue to rally together in our shared mission to maintain and strengthen the high standards of quality your programs implement to make positive, meaningful impacts on the lives of young people in Illinois.

IL-QPSA Registration Form: This is how you register for the IL-QPSA process each year. Every participant must register for the IL-QPSA each year to allow ACT Now to maintain accurate data.

ANCAL is an online learning and training platform FREE for all Illinois afterschool and out-of-school time (OST) professionals. If you are already registered for ANCAL, you have access to all of ACT Now’s IL-QPSA Modules. If not, register here.

FY24 IL-QPSA Teen REACH Report

If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Jackie Tichler at TichlerJ@actnowillinois.org.