We are proud to announce that the Center has achieved a STAR 4 Rating once again! The WCADCC participates in the state-wide Keystone STARS initiative, a program targeted toward improving the quality of childcare centers throughout the Commonwealth.
Keystone STARS is Pennsylvania’s Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS). A QRIS is a continuous quality improvement systemic approach to assess, improve, and communicate the level of quality in early and school-age care and education programs. Keystone STARS is a program of Pennsylvania’s Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL).
Our Guiding Principles
Keystone STARS is a responsive system to improve, support, and recognize the continuous quality improvement efforts of early learning programs in Pennsylvania. Our system is guided by three core principles:
- A whole-child approach to education is essential to meeting the holistic and individual needs of each and every child and family.
- Knowledgeable and responsive early care and education professionals are essential to the development of children and the support of families.
- Building and sustaining ongoing positive relationships among children, families, early care and education professionals and community stakeholders is essential for the growth and development of every child.
We believe inclusion, diversity, equity and respect are foundational values embedded in these principles.
You all are so wonderful and the work you do to educate and serve our children is much appreciated. We couldn’t do it without you!
– WCADCC Parent Survey Response
Keystone STARS – Improving the quality through:
Standards
Training/Professional Development
Assistance
Resources
Support
NEW! 2022 Keystone STARS Performance Standards Recorded Webinar Available Now
Early learning programs participating in Keystone STARS can earn a quality rating score from a STAR 1 to a STAR 4. At each level, programs must meet certain quality standards in four key areas: staff education, learning environment, leadership/management, and family/community partnerships. The higher the STAR level, the higher the quality standards.
We are the highest level at STAR 4!
Keystone STARS has four primary goals:
OCDEL’s Keystone STARS Program supports all early care and education programs to improve program quality.
What does the Keystone STARS program mean for your child?
High-quality early learning programs offer your child a stimulating, nurturing environment that helps prepare them for school and to reach his or her full potential. Quality environments provide a stimulating, loving atmosphere for children to thrive within. The Performance Standards for Keystone STARS quality-rated providers ensure quality early learning programs are the foundation for children's success, and investment in the early care and education of Pennsylvania's children is an investment in the future.
The WCADCC is 100% committed to exacting quality standards for teachers, classrooms, and program management. Through Keystone STARS, we support teachers to achieve higher education and college degrees, providing a better early childhood education for the children.
As they say at Keystone STARS, "every child is Pennsylvania's future!"
Join Our Supportive Community
For 61 years, we have been a leader in providing children with a safe, nurturing childcare environment combined with a top-quality early education program, but we would be nothing without our community.
