Southern Local Elementary School’s preschool program achieved a gold rating through the Step Up to Quality initiative for providing top-notch opportunities for its young pupils. Pictured are, seated front from left, classroom aide Kimmy Crawford, lead teacher Kimmi Blatch, intervention specialist Kimberly Louk and paraeducator Rylee Mellott; back, District Preschool Coordinator Kristy Sampson, lead teacher Tracey Richards, paraeducator Kya McCulley and classroom aide Phyllis Maskaluk. (Submitted photo)

SALINEVILLE — Southern Local Elementary School’s preschool program has gained high marks after achieving a gold rating through the Ohio Department of Children and Youth’s Step Up to Quality initiative.

Step Up to Quality is a quality rating and improvement system that recognizes and promotes learning and development in programs meeting quality standards that exceed preschool licensing health and safety regulations. Standards are based on national research identifying standards which lead to improved outcomes for children.

District Preschool Coordinator Kristy Sampson said the preschool has 45 students and the staff is dedicated to giving them the best start for kindergarten.

“The Ohio Department of Children and Youth changed from a number rating to gold, silver and bronze. We were always obtaining the highest tier of points and are elated about achieving gold,” she said. “We take pride in offering a positive, high-quality program.”

Officials applied for program status and learned the good news earlier this fall. Sampson said standards include learning and development, administration and leadership practices, staff quality and professional development and family and community partnerships. Southern Local’s preschool program has taken pride in being rated in the state’s highest level since its enrollment in the Step Up to Quality system.

“Every childcare or preschool program has to apply for a Step Up to Quality status and it levels the playing field and makes sure all preschool programs are offering high-quality care to students,” Sampson added. “I’m very proud of our staff. They work hard to create a safe, kind and student-centered learning environment for our children. We are excited about our rating and look forward to continuing a high-quality program for our children and community.”