MARINE CORPS COMMUNITY SERVICES, QUANTICO, Va. -- For the first time, the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs has accredited 100% of the eligible childcare centers in the Marine Corps.
The National Academy of Early Childhood Programs is an independent accrediting system sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). NAEYC is the nation's largest organization of early childhood professionals. NAEYC has provided distinguished leadership in the field of childcare and early education for more than 70 years.
"One-hundred percent accreditation in the Corps was achieved as a result of a great deal of effort and dedication by child development center staffs and their leadership," said Michael Berger, Deputy Head, Marine Crops Family Team Building, Personal and Family Readiness Division, Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Headquarters, Marine Corps.
"Now our challenge is to stay accredited and to ensure new centers go through the process," he added.
According to Berger, the accredited childcare centers demonstrated a commitment to providing a high-quality program for young children and their families. While the accreditation process examines the total program, emphasis is placed on the quality of interactions among teachers, caregivers, and children and the developmental appropriateness of the curriculum. Health and safety, staffing, staff qualifications, physical environment, and administration were also reviewed during accreditation, but primary consideration is given to the nature of the child's experience.
For additional information, visit www.usmc-mccs.org.