We have been hearing from programs that the list of documents to be included in the E-Portfolio is long and feels overwhelming. We hear you! Here are a few tips to keep in mind before you begin your Rising Stars for ME application: 

• If your program is rated at Star 2, and you are NOT planning to move up at this time, you DO NOT need to upload any documents to your E-Portfolio. Being licensed is all the documentation you need! 

• If your program is rated at Star 5 (meaning that you are accredited or meet Head Start Performance Standards), your program will receive an abbreviated application. Your accreditation portfolio/documentation is considered a substitute for most Rising Stars for ME documentation. We recommend skipping over the document upload section and answering the Standards questions first to determine which Maine-specific document(s) will be required. 

• If your program is rated at Star 3 or Star 4 and/or you would like to move to a Star 3 or Star 4, you can start by uploading any of the documents on the list that you have on hand (e.g. your Facility Handbook or child observation forms). You can also skip over the documents page and continue into answering the Standards questions. Completing the application this way allows you to upload specific documentation one item at a time. 

Remember that your documentation and answers to the Standards questions are saved for you, so you can go back to the application as often as you need. 

If you still have questions, please reach out to risingstarsforme@maine.edu. If you’re headed to Maine’s Statewide Early Childhood Education Conference in Portland this weekend, check out the Rising Stars for ME Application – Everything You Need to Know session on Saturday morning!