Quality Rating 5: Accreditation

Accreditation Certificate

Quality child care and early education are delivered in quality environments. Accreditation demonstrates that a program meets quality standards set by a local 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 1.5. To meet these requirements, you will upload verification that your program is accredited by an organization recognized by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE).

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