Quality Rating 4: Accreditation

Accreditation Self-Study and Visit Request

Quality child care and early education are delivered in quality environments. Accreditation demonstrates that a program meets quality standards set by a state or national organization. The accreditation process serves as a guide for programs to evaluate their policies and practices and develop plans for improvement. It also validates that a program uses quality processes and procedures in delivering care and educating children.

Maryland EXCELS supports programs as they progress through the accreditation process and work to achieve significant milestones.

This section explains the requirements for Accreditation and Rating Scales: Accreditation: ACR 1.4. To meet these requirements, you will upload 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.

NOTE: If your program is accredited, no further action or documentation is required for ACR 1.4.

Select the Requirements tab to learn about the documentation needed for your program type.