Greenfield Elementary School recognized as a Quality Learning and Development Program

In recognition of a commitment to quality and an ongoing dedication to the learning and development of children, Greenfield Preschool has received a Five-Star Step Up To Quality Award from the state of Ohio.

Step Up To Quality is Ohio’s rating system for learning and development programs. Participating programs can earn a one to five star rating.

In addition to meeting all standards of a four-star rating, programs with five stars may also:

• Have lower staff/child ratios.

• Use child assessment results to plan activities that best support learning and development goals for each child.

• Share assessment results and create goals for children.

• Develop plans to support children as they transition to a new classroom or educational setting.

• Work with other organizations or businesses within the community to support children and their families.

• Have an active and organized parent volunteer group.

• Use input from families and community partners’ inform the program’s continuous improvement process.

• Have accreditation by an approved organization.

“Greenfield Preschool is proud to be rated a five-star program,” said Heather Dratwa, Director of Special Programs for Greenfield Schools and administrator for the Greenfield Preschool Program.

She also added that it was hard work obtaining the 5-star rating however, “Even though a parent is the child's first and most influential and important teacher, a quality preschool, such as Greenfield Preschool, allows children to pick up new skills the age-appropriate way — by doing, playing, and exploring which will lay the foundation for a positive school career.”

Bob Schumm, principal of Greenfield Elementary where the program is housed, stated, “We know that children have approximately 1,892 days from birth until school starts, and every day matters. It is important to us that children develop their self-confidence, social and emotional skills, and a love of learning. Our program is designed to support these skills, for our youngest learners, to prepare each child for a successful school career.”

Research confirms that the first five years of a child’s life has a direct impact on how children develop emotional well-being, in addition to, learning and social skills. For these reasons, the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and the Ohio Department of Education are committed to improving early childhood opportunities for all children in the state.

To learn more, visit http://www.earlychildhoodohio.org.