Submitted article
In recognition of a commitment to quality and an ongoing dedication to the learning and development of children, the Bucyrus City Schools Preschool Program has received a Four-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 for a three star rating, programs with four stars may:
• Have lower staff/child ratios.
• Use child assessment results to plan activities that best support learning and development goals for each child.
• 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 to inform continuous improvement process.
• Have accreditation by an approved organization.
“The Bucyrus City Schools Preschool Program is proud to be a four-star program,” Program Director Paul Hiszem said. “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.”
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.
“This is a tremendous accomplishment for our Preschool Program and our teachers and staff,” Superintendent Kevin Kimmel said. “A great deal of work and time goes in to ensuring the Bucyrus City Schools Preschool Program provides the best learning atmosphere in the county for our students, and I am very proud of our staff for their dedication and work in making this happen.”
The award-winning Bucyrus City Schools Preschool Program is still accepting new students for the 2014-2015 school year. An electronic version of the registration packet is available in the “District Forms” section of the school’s website, www.bucyrusschools.org. However, interested parents are strongly encouraged to obtain a hard copy of the registration packet from the Elementary School by visiting the building office from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, or by calling the office at 419-562-6089.
To learn more about the Step Up to Quality Program, visit www.earlychildhoodohio.org. Please contact Paul Hiszem at phiszem@bucyrusschools.org for more information about the Bucyrus City Schools Preschool Program.