A Step Up To Quality One Star rated program means that your child is in a program with:
- Lower staff:child ratios in the infant room
This means the teachers have more time to support your baby’s individual development and
learning. This is important because 85% of brain development occurs by the time your child is
3 years old.
- The administrator and at least one teacher have a credential and/or a degree in early
childhood education.
This means that the administrator and teacher(s) have the specialized knowledge to support
your child’s development and learning. This is important because just like a doctor needs
formal education, so do those working with young children. It’s no less important than for any
other profession.
- The administrator all lead teachers and assistant teachers complete 5 hours of
specialized training annually.
This means that the administrator and teaching staff are committed to expanding their
education and skills to better support your child’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, tuition reimbursement 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 Infant Toddler Guidelines and Early Learning
Content Standards.
This means that your child’s program is aware that there are guidelines and standards. This is
important because this information assists teachers in supporting your child’s development
and learning.
Step Up To Quality Programs are only eligible for a Star Rating if they have not had any
serious risk licensing non-compliances within the past 12 months. If this program were to
have a serious risk non-compliance, their rating would be either suspended or removed based
on the non-compliance.
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