Hoya Kids Learning Center is one of the first early childhood programs to earn re-accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children's (NAEYC) rigorous new set of standards.

NAEYC is the nation's leading organization of early childhood professionals. Hoya Kids first received accreditation in 2004.

"We're proud to have earned the mark of quality from NAEYC, and to be recognized for our commitment to reaching the highest professional standards," said Jane Banister, the center's director. "NAEYC accreditation lets families in our community know that children in our program are getting the best care and early learning experiences possible."

Hoya Kids offers child development and preschool programs for children of students, faculty and staff. The center, established in 1997, fulfills a key component of Georgetown's educational mission to weave family needs into the fabric of the university community.

To earn NAEYC accreditation in the new system, Hoya Kids went through an extensive self-study process, measuring the program and its services against the ten new NAEYC early childhood program standards and more than 400 related accreditation criteria.

Hoya Kids received accreditation after an on-site visit by NAEYC assessors to ensure that the center meets each of the association's ten program standards.  NAEYC-accredited programs are also subject to unannounced visits during their accreditation, which lasts for five years.

"The new NAEYC accreditation system raises the bar for preschools, child care centers and other early childhood programs," said Mark Ginsberg, executive director of NAEYC.  "Hoya Kids Learning Center’s NAEYC accreditation is a sign that they are a leader in a national effort to invest in high-quality early childhood education, and to help give all children a better start."

-- Blue & Gray Staff Reports

(September 10, 2007)