The Crete-Monee Early Learning Center has earned the Gold Circle of Quality, the highest rating from ExceleRate Illinois for excellence in early childhood education programs.

ExceleRate Illinois awards the Gold Circle to programs that meet all 17 state standards in areas such as instructional excellence, family engagement, staff qualifications, and program administration. The Early Learning Center’s Preschool for All/Preschool for All Expansion (PFA/PFAE) program earned the honor following its most recent evaluation.

“This is a tremendous honor, and we are extremely proud of our entire staff,” said Kelly Chesta, Director of the Early Learning Center. “Their hard work, dedication, and commitment to maintaining a high-quality learning environment for our students made this achievement possible.”

Programs are evaluated through monitoring visits that include the Early Childhood Environmental Rating Scale–Third Edition (ECERS-3) and the ISBE Compliance Checklist. Results from these evaluations determine each program’s Circle of Quality designation.

A certificate acknowledging this achievement will be issued by the Illinois Network of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies (INCCRRA).

“This recognition speaks to the outstanding work happening every day at the Early Learning Center,” said Superintendent Dr. Kara Coglianese. “Providing our youngest learners with a strong foundation is at the heart of our mission, and earning the Gold Circle of Quality demonstrates the district’s commitment to excellence in early education.”

To learn more about ExceleRate Illinois and the standards for each Circle of Quality, visit www.excelerateillinoisproviders.com