Independence Primary School's early childhood education program was recently awarded the highest, 5-star rating from Ohio's Step Up To Quality initiative. This prestigious designation recognizes that the school's pre-kindergarten program far surpasses basic health and safety requirements and meets the highest standards for nurturing early learning and development.
"Earning the 5-star rating validates the quality of our program, our talented teachers, and our commitment to giving our students the best possible start," said IPS Principal T.J. Ebert. He credited the rating to factors like low student-teacher ratios, an inquiry-based curriculum, professional development for teachers, and partnerships with families.
The Step Up To Quality program was created by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and Ohio Department of Education. Its 5-star tiered rating system helps parents identify excellence in early childhood education. "We couldn't be more proud of this recognition," said Ebert. "It reflects the work our staff does each day to ensure our preschool students develop a lifelong love of learning."