Child Development Center earns reaccreditation

Downs said the NAEYC accreditation criterion included relationships, curriculum, assessment of child progress, health, community relationships, physical environment, and leadership and management.

“We submit annual reports describing how we maintain a high quality program and continue to meet and improve upon each criterion,” Downs said. “Each spring, families and staff complete surveys in which they provide feedback on our program which helps us set our goals for the next year, celebrate our accomplishments, and focus on areas for improvement.”

Downs said as the staff celebrates the accomplishment, she reflects on the families, children, and staff who have been a part of the program.

“The CDC truly is a place of learning for everyone involved, big kids and little kids both. NAEYC not only supports our philosophy of allowing children to learn through play, but also provides us with the resources and support to teach in a safe and nurturing environment,” Downs said.

Kevin Bogus, lead teacher, said working in an accredited classroom shows the CDC cares about child development.

“Having that accreditation shows we are committed to high-quality child care and a learning environment. Being a classroom teacher in an accredited program challenges me to continue learning and exploring child development,” Bogus said. “Having an NAEYC accredited classroom provides college students amazing opportunities to learn about child development in a high quality classroom.”

Riann Mullis, a parent of a CDC student, shared her praise for the CDC.

“As a parent, it is reassuring knowing my child is receiving a high-quality of learning. Due to the educational opportunities the CDC continues to provide, I am confident that my child is more than prepared for the next level of education,” she said.