Quality Rating 4: Accreditation

Instructions

To meet the requirements for Accreditation and Rating Scales: Accreditation: ACR 1.4, you will:

  • Obtain verification from an accrediting organization recognized by MSDE showing that you have begun the accreditation process, are actively pursuing accreditation, and are within the time allowed by the accrediting organization
  • Upload verification documentation (example: email confirmation, scanned copy of confirmation letter)

Verification of Accreditation Process

Programs that choose to pursue accreditation take part in a process of reflecting on their practices, improving their program, and completing in external evaluation.

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) recognizes national accrediting organizations that align with its mission and high standards for early childhood, public prekindergarten, and school-age child care programs. These organizations provide guidance and oversight as programs work toward accreditation.

What does the documentation look like?

You will upload a copy of any documentation from an accrediting organization recognized by MSDE verifying that your program has begun the accreditation process, is actively pursuing accreditation, and is within the time allowed by the accrediting organization.

Documentation may look different depending on the accrediting organization. Programs pursuing Maryland Accreditation can use the Proof of Maryland Accreditation Process resource for guidance on what to provide.

NOTE: Ratings are valid for one year. If your program has not achieved accreditation and met the requirements for ACR 1.5 within this time, you are required to submit updated documentation from the accrediting organization that meet the requirements of this subcategory.

 

Where can you learn more?

  • Maryland Accreditation  Maryland Accreditation is a voluntary process.  A program chooses to pursue self-appraisal, program improvement, and external program review to achieve and publicly confirm that they meet high quality state standards.
  • Accrediting Organizations Recognized by MSDE: The Maryland EXCELS website maintains a list of the national accrediting organizations recognized by the Maryland State Department of Education. These organizations provide guidance and oversight as program’s seek accreditation.