Wednesday, June 29, 2016

It's Official! The ELC is a 5-STAR SUTQ Program!

Woo-Hoo!  Hooray!  Yippee!  

Way to go, ELC Teachers!

In case you haven't heard the good news, Westerville City Schools
Early Learning Center Preschool has been awarded a 

Five-Star Step Up To Quality Rating!  

Earning this award is a lengthy and involved process.  It includes gathering and submitting evidence of our practices as well as hosting an unannounced site-visit by representatives from the Ohio Department of Education.  The evaluation team spent multiple days with us.  During the visit, they observed our classrooms and interviewed our teachers.  They also looked at all sorts of things, like our records, our professional development plans, our curriculum, and more!  I think they even read my Polar Bear Blog!!

I have always known that our center is of 5-Star quality, but it sure is nice to see it in writing!  In fact, while my preschool friends are on break for the summer, I have been chill'n in the center with Mrs. Kile (our director) and admiring our banner.  
Isn't it beautiful?!?!



In case you'd like a little back ground on the significance of this honor, A Step Up To Quality Five-Star rating means our program that has demonstrated the highest level of quality! Below are some of the considerations at the five star level.

·              There are more staff members per child.
Teachers have more time to support your child’s individual development and learning.  This is important because 90 percent of brain development occurs by the time your child is 6 years old.

·               The administrator and teachers have higher educational qualifications.
The administrator and most teachers have a bachelor’s or master’s degree and many years’ experience working with young children.  These qualifications benefit your child’s development and learning.

·               The administrator and teachers complete more than 20 hours of specialized training every two years.
The administrator and teaching staff are committed to expanding their education and skills to better support your child’s development and learning. 

·               Teachers develop lesson plans that support each child’s growth. 
Teachers plan intentional and purposeful activities and experiences that meet the needs, interests and abilities of children.  These activities and experiences support them and their development. 

·               Program staff completes assessments to evaluate and improve the learning experience.
Assessments with your child help keep track of his or her growth over time.  This lets teachers adjust how they offer experiences to your child daily.

·               Families and the community are valued.

Programs work with families and neighborhood organizations to provide more opportunities for children.


If you would like more information regarding early learning and development programs in your area and statewide, visit www.earlychildhoodohio.org.  


I hope all of my Preschool Friends are enjoying the summer!  


                                                                                               Sincerely,
                                                                                               The Polar Bear