The Mancos Early Learning Center announced this weekend that it has achieved NAEYC Accreditation+, a distinguished recognition from the National Association for the Education of Young Children, which the center says highlights its commitment to high-quality, early child education.
The NAEYC Accreditation, which is regarded as the gold standard in early learning, evaluates programs on teaching strategies, family engagement, health and safety, leadership and continuous improvement. The Accreditation+ designation goes further, requiring a guaranteed site visit and additional quality assurance measures to ensure transparency and accountability.
“In September, I came across a social media post from NAEYC announcing a new pilot research study. They were seeking early learning programs to help test and refine a revised, tiered accreditation system,” Mancos Early Learning director Tyra Hughes told The Journal. “The goal of the study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of this updated process across diverse communities and program types.”
Only 39 programs nationwide were selected.
Fewer than 10% of early learning programs nationwide earn NAEYC Accreditation, with even fewer pursuing the enhanced Accreditation+ status.
“I want families to know that this accreditation is a reflection of our deep commitment to their children,” Hughes said. “Pursuing NAEYC Accreditation+ is a voluntary process that allows us to examine our program through a high-quality lens, to celebrate our strengths and identify areas for continued growth.”
Mancos Early Learning Center’s accreditation will allow the center to continue emphasizing intentional teaching, nurturing relationships and child-centered learning.
Hughes also noted the milestone’s significance for staff, families and the Mancos community as a whole, pointing to the program’s alignment with rigorous national standards.
“Earning Accreditation+ shows that what happens every day at MELC, intentional teaching, nurturing relationships and child-centered learning, is backed by national standards and verified through in-person observation,” Hughes said. “This is a meaningful milestone for our staff, families and the Mancos community.”
The NAEYC, which was established in 1985, promotes research-based practices in early childhood education. Mancos Early Learning Center’s accreditation is valid for five years, with annual reporting required to maintain compliance and ensure ongoing improvement.
“This accreditation reflects Mancos’ commitment to educational excellence from the very beginning of a child’s journey. At MELC, we lay the foundation for future learning by focusing on the whole child, supporting growth in language, literacy, math, social-emotional skills and physical development through play-based, hands-on experiences,” Hughes said. “NAEYC Accreditation+ confirms that the youngest learners in Mancos are receiving an education grounded in research, guided by best practices and designed to help every child thrive.”
