The Illinois State Board of Education has awarded Mokena School District 159’s Early Start Preschool Program the Gold Circle of Quality through ExceleRate Illinois.
ExceleRate Illinois helps families better understand the quality of early learning options available in their communities by bringing together all of the state’s early childhood education programs under a unified set of standards. The statewide system emphasizes key areas such as early learning and development, instructional quality, family engagement, staff credentials, professional development, and program management.
The Gold Circle of Quality, the highest rating achievable, recognizes programs that demonstrate quality on all standards by meeting or exceeding specific benchmarks as determined by an independent assessor.
Principal Rachel Chorley proudly stated, “Receiving the gold level status signifies the dedication everyone in the district has to providing our youngest learners with the highest quality educational foundation. The staff members are committed to implementing best practices in teaching, curriculum, family engagement, and continuous improvement. For me, personally, it is a moment of pride, as it reflects the staff's hard work and commitment to the Mokena community.”
Mokena’s Early Start Preschool Program serves three-and four-year-old students who reside in the district. The program is play-based and developmentally appropriate while providing foundational skills for a successful transition to Kindergarten.
“The Student Services Department is incredibly proud of the Preschool for All Team for their unwavering commitment to nurturing our youngest learners, creating a truly inclusive environment, and continuously striving for growth and excellence. Earning Gold Level Status from the State of Illinois is a well-deserved recognition of their outstanding efforts and impact,” Director of Student Services, Megan Mundt, shared about the accomplishment.
For more information about Mokena School District’s preschool programming, please visit https://mes.mokena159.org/o/mes/page/twpreschool.