Crestview Cougar Cubs Preschool Recognized as a Quality Learning and Development Program
ASHLAND, OHIO~ In recognition of a commitment to quality and an ongoing dedication to the learning and development of children, Crestview Cougar Cubs Preschool has received a Five-Star Step Up To Quality Award from the state of Ohio.
High-quality learning and development programs are important because early experiences last a lifetime. Children have approximately 1,892 days from the time he or she is born until kindergarten. What happens on this journey lays the foundation for success in school and life.
Research confirms that when a program takes steps to increase quality, the children they teach are better prepared for the future. Children display more confidence, a curiosity about the world around them and are eager to learn.
Step Up to Quality is Ohio’s rating system for early learning and development programs. Participating programs can earn a one to five-star rating. A program with five stars:
Uses child assessment results to plan activities that best support learning and development goals for each child.
Share assessment results and create goals for children.
Develops plans to support children as they transition to a new classroom or educational setting.
Works with other organizations and businesses within the community to support children and their families.
Uses input from families and community partners to inform the program’s continuous improvement process.
Continues to participate in professional development opportunities.
Maintains standards that are monitored by the state of Ohio to ensure that the highest level of care and learning is being provided for every child within the program.
Crestview preschool is proud to be a five-star program. It is important that children develop their self-confidence, social and emotional skills and a love for learning. A Step Up To Quality five-star rating means Crestview Preschool is a program that has demonstrated the highest level of quality, which is what we strive for each and every day.
Jim Grubbs, Superintendents stated "In just one year, our exceptional preschool staff has collaboratively created an exceptional learning environment, earning the state's highest 5-star rating. Their dedication, passion, and relentless efforts have not only met but surpassed expectations. Building upon the foundation laid by the previous preschool staff our team has seamlessly elevated the preschool experience, creating a journey of continuous improvement. I am immensely proud of our preschool team for their outstanding contributions and commitment to shaping a future filled with limitless possibilities for our young learners."
This accomplishment would not have been possible without the dedication of the preschool teachers Allison Grau and Carissa Whitmer along with the support of their classroom assistants Ellen Ramsay and Marsha Chronister. Becky Hartsel, the current preschool director, continues to guide and direct the program to maintain their five star rating. A special thank you goes to Toni Zehe, the former director of the program, who throughout the 2022-2023 school year supported the preschool team in working towards this goal.
To learn more about Step Up To Quality, visit www.earlychildhoodohio.org