Wednesday, August 27, 2003
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Wednesday, August 27, 2003 |
Hood Avenue joins N. Fayette in after-school accreditationHood Avenue Primary's after-school program is the second school-based program in the state to receive accreditation from the National School-Age Care Alliance. Hood follows North Fayette Elementary, which became the first school to have its ASP nationally accredited by the same organization last year. NSACA accreditation symbolizes a commitment to quality school-age care. Receiving accreditation means that the school's program met or exceeded NSACA's requirements for accreditation based on its 144 quality standards for school-age care. These standards describe the best practices in after school programs. They are focused on six keys to quality: human relationships, indoor environment, outdoor environment, activities, safety, health and nutrition and administration. In order to gain accreditation, Hood Avenue's ASP underwent a self-study process that involved the program's staff, children, families and community members. A self-study team was formed to determine how the school's program was meeting the national standards for quality. After working to meet the 144 NSACA standards for quality, the program applied for an endorsement visit. Two trained school-age professionals observed Hood Avenue's program for 24 hours and met with families, program staff and community leaders. They sent a detailed report to NSACA upon which it was determined that Hood Avenue's ASP met the criteria for NSACA accreditation. "We are very happy with this program and the staff. I never worry if my child is safe and happy when she is in ASP, and that is the most important thing to me," said one parent whose student attends the program at Hood. The school system's goal is to have all of its programs accredited by NSACA, according to ASP Director Julie Simpson. Due to the complexity of applying for accreditation, one program is being selected each year Organized in 1987, NSACA is a professional membership organization with state affiliates and over 8,000 members nationwide. NSACA members are leaders in the school-age field that serves over 3.2 million school-age children and youth. NSACA developed the national accreditation system to recognize programs that are offering stimulating, safe and supportive programs for children and youth aged 5-14.
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