LCCC Early Learning Center Receives Four-Star Rating

Lehigh Carbon Community College’s (LCCC) Early Learning Center has been awarded the highest four-star rating through the Keystone STARS initiative through the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning. The STARS program is designed to improve, support and recognize the continuous quality improvement of early learning programs in Pennsylvania.

The performance standards are grouped into four levels and address staff qualifications and professional development, the early learning program, partnerships with family and community, and leadership and management. Each level utilizes research-based best practices to promote quality early learning environments and positive child outcomes.

Keystone STARS is managed through a partnership of the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) and the Pennsylvania and Regional Keys.

In a Star 4 program, at least half of the lead teachers have a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and all have at least an associate degree; teachers and families work together to create an enriching environment for children; curriculum and assessments are developed based on Pennsylvania standards; teachers help children and their families transition to kindergarten; and classrooms and learning activities are evaluated based on a standardized tool, to name just a few of the ways the program sets standards.

The LCCC Early Learning Center (ELC) accepts children ages three to five and is located on the college’s main Schnecksville campus, serving the children of students, staff and the community. Established in 1972, the center encompasses a fine arts studio, culinary cove, open-air classroom and performing arts room. Children also have access to the college’s library and gymnasium and participate in several campus events.

For more information, contact Mary Salinger, Director of LCCC’s ELC, at 610-799-1165 or go the web site at www.lccc.edu/elc.