The purpose of this evaluation was to collect and analyze data regarding the BrightStars framework for child care centers and preschools to help Rhode Island leaders continue to refine and strengthen its QRIS. This evaluation provides important data for determining whether the framework produces rating levels that meaningfully differentiate higher quality programs from lower quality programs. As required in the Early Learning Challenge Grant, this evaluation also examines the extent to which there are relationships between measures of children's growth and BrightStars ratings and standards. We also studied the extent to which the relationship between ratings and children's development differed by family income and gathered information about directors' and teachers' impressions of BrightStars. (author abstract)