A Step Up To Quality One Star rated program means that your child is in a program with:

 

 

 

Lower staff:child ratios in the classroom

This means the teachers have more time to support your children’s development and learning.  This is important because 85% of brain development occurs by the age of 3!

The administrator and at least one lead teacher have a credential and or degree in early childhood education

This means that the administrator and teacher(s) have the specialized knowledge to support your child’s developmental learning.  This is important because just like a doctor needs formal education, so do those working with young children.  It is no less important than any other profession!

Actually, all the lead teachers at our school have a degree or credential!

The administrator and all lead teachers and assistant teachers complete 5 hours of specialized training annually.

This means that the administrator and the leading staff are committed to expanding their education and skills to better support children’s development and learning.  This is important because every year there is new information being discovered and everyone working with young children needs to know about it!

Provides administrative supports and at least one benefit (such as insurance, paid leave, discount on child care etc…)

This means that the program is a place where employees are supported and treated professionally.  This is important because good programs retain good teachers.

Teachers who are familiar with Ohio’s Early Learning Content Standards

This means that this children’s program is aware that there are guidelines and standards.  This is important because this information assists teachers in supporting children’s development and learning!