What should an annual program evaluation assess?

• A. Staff salaries.
• B. Customer satisfaction surveys only.
• C. Financial audits only.
• D. Outcomes, compliance, program strengths and weaknesses, and planned improvements.

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is to use an annual program evaluation to take a complete, action-oriented look at how the program is performing. It should assess outcomes to show whether the services are producing the intended benefits for children and families, and to what extent those results are achieved. It should also review compliance with licensing rules, regulations, and internal policies to confirm safe, ethical, and consistent operation. In addition, it should identify program strengths and weaknesses so you can understand what is working well and where changes are needed. Finally, it should outline planned improvements, providing a concrete path for how the program will enhance effectiveness, address gaps, and use resources wisely.

Focusing only on staff salaries misses the impact on clients and the program’s regulatory status. Limiting the evaluation to customer satisfaction surveys captures perceptions but not whether outcomes are achieved or compliance is met. Looking only at financial audits covers finances but not whether services are effective or what needs to change for better results. The four areas together create a meaningful, actionable picture of program quality and guide ongoing quality improvement.