Mahaska County YMCA Webster Preschool/Child Care Earns Level 4 Rating
The Mahaska County YMCA Webster location, 508 South 7th Street, Oskaloosa, has achieved a level 4 Iowa Quality Rating System (QRS) rating from the Iowa Department of Human Services.
This level 4 rating is based on a five level scale of quality measures. Previously, the facility had garnered a level 3 rating.
Iowa’s QRS is a voluntary child care and preschool rating system for child development homes, licensed child care centers and preschools, and child care programs that are operated by school districts. Ratings reflect information provided by the program at their time of rating.
The QRS was developed:
-To raise the quality of child care in Iowa,
-To increase the number of children in high-quality child care settings, and
-to educate parents about quality in child care.
There are five levels in QRS. For program to be rated at:
Level 1: The provider has met Iowa’s registration or licensing standards.
Level 2: The provider has received additional training and made the first steps toward improving quality.
Level 3-5: Providers have made significant steps in meeting key indicators of quality in the areas of: • professional development • health and safety • environment • family and community partnership • leadership and administration.
Child Care Director, Meagan McCartie stated “As a child care and preschool provider, the Mahaska County YMCA puts into practice what research has shown for some time. The quality of care that young children receive in out-of-home settings provides a foundation upon which their future learning is built. Children who attend high quality child care and preschool settings display better cognitive, language, and social competencies. In choosing a child care program, parents should discuss the current licensing status with the program and be aware that child care centers are required to prominently post licenses.”
Mahaska County YMCA CEO Eric Christensen stated, “The Y plays an invaluable role in the growth and development of each and every child in our care. Our participation in QRS demonstrates our commitment to provide ongoing quality care for children. All the Webster staff are to be commended for this achievement.”
For any questions regarding Mahaska County YMCA Child Care or Preschool, contact 641-676-1632 or info@mahaskaymca.org.
