Mount Vernon Preschool Earns National Accreditation

The Preschool arm of Sandy Springs-based Mount Vernon Presbyterian School has earned accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children, the nation’s leading organization of early childhood professionals.

“Earning NAEYC accreditation is a testament to our faculty, staff, and families,” said Head of School Dr. Brett Jacobsen. “It also goes a long way in reaffirming our principles and practices. We believe curiosity and passion drive learning, relationships are foundational for learning, and learners apply knowledge to make an impact.”

To earn NAEYC Accreditation, Mount Vernon’s Preschool went through an extensive self-study process, measuring the program and its services against the 10 NAEYC Early Childhood Program Standards and more than 400 related accreditation criteria. The program received NAEYC Accreditation after an on-site visit by NAEYC Assessors to ensure that the program meets each of the ten program standards.

“More than anything, we’re excited to share this exciting news with our School community,” said Head of Preschool Kelly Kelly. “It validates the work of our teachers and it confirms our commitment to the highest standards of early childhood education.”

In the 25 years since NAEYC accreditation was established, it has become a widely recognized sign of high-quality early childhood education. Nearly 7,000 programs are currently accredited by NAEYC — about 8 percent of all preschools and other early childhood programs in the United States.

“It’s a lengthy and rigorous process to achieve NAEYC Accreditation, and Mount Vernon is commended for seeking high standards,” said Rhian Evans Allvin, executive director of NAEYC. “Caring for children is not ‘rocket science’ – it’s brain science. Studies prove that the brain connections made in the first few years of life set a child’s path for success in school and in life. That’s why quality educators are so crucial. For parents and caregivers of young children who are searching for a high-quality early learning experience, Mount Vernon’s NAEYC Accreditation is a sign that it offers a high-quality education in a nurturing and stimulating environment.”

The NAEYC Accreditation system has set voluntary professional standards for programs for young children since 1985. In September 2006, the Association revised program standards and criteria to introduce a new level of quality, accountability, and service for parents and children in child care programs.

The system was created to set professional standards for early childhood education, and to help families identify high-quality preschools, child care centers, and other early education programs. To earn NAEYC Accreditation, a program must meet each of the 10 NAEYC Early Childhood Program Standards. Programs are accredited by NAEYC for a five-year period.

For more information about NAEYC Accreditation, visit www.naeyc.org/academy.

Photo: Back row (L-R): Jennifer Brinkley, Anne Riley, Shawn Hodges, Ashlee Mirabella, Nicole Wright, Kelly Kelly (Head of Preschool), Lisa Cumming, Mindy Hickein, Laurie Rummel, Stacey Whalen; Middle row (L-R): Lisa Brady, Tricia Carnes, Liz Aull, Molly Collier, Lauren Hill, Betsy Armstrong, Elizabeth Jones, Kathy McLean; Front row (L-R): Beatrice Kirkland, Kelly Moras; Not pictured: Christine Cooper, Michelle Erling. Credit: Mount Vernon Presbyterian School