District 102 Gets Early Childhood Accreditation

's early childhood program has earned accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

"We are extremely proud to have earned this mark of quality and to be recognized for our commitment to reaching the highest professional standards," Superintendent Theresa Dunkin said in a statement. "Our early childhood program is a blended model with a wonderful combination of students with special needs, paid students, and at risk students, and the majority speaking at least two languages in the home. NAEYC accreditation lets families know that these children are receiving excellent early learning experiences." 

On April 23, the School Board congratulated District 102's early childhood program members who worked hard to earn accreditation from the National Association for the NAEYC. The 10 accreditation standards the program met through documented examples included positive relationships, approved curriculum, effective teaching approaches, ongoing assessment, appropriate nutrition and health, qualified teaching staff, effective communication methods, available community resources, healthy physical environment and high quality experiences.

To earn NAEYC accreditation, District 102 went through an extensive self-study process, measuring the program and its services against the 10 NAEYC early childhood program standards and more than 400 related accreditation criteria. D102's program received accreditation after an on-site visit by NAEYC assessors to ensure that the program meets each of the 10 program standards.

NAEYC accredited programs are also subject to unannounced visits during their accreditation, which lasts for five years. The NAEYC accreditation system, established in 1985, reflects the latest research and best practices in early childhood education and development. NAEYC is committed to utilizing the newest studies and analysis on positive child outcomes to ensure young children continue receiving the highest-quality care and education possible.

— Information provided by School District 102