Approximately 10,000 programs are engaged in seeking accreditation. Programs seeking accreditation undergo an intensive self-study, collecting information from parents, teachers, administrators, and classroom observations. All of this information is independently reviewed by a team of national experts who grant or defer accreditation.
Accreditation lasts for three years.
The process carefully considers all aspects of program provision - including health and safety, staffing, staff qualifications, administration, and physical environment. But the greatest emphasis is on the children's relationships with the staff and how the program helps each child grow and learn - intellectually, physically, socially, and emotionally. According to Willer, research supports the value of accreditation for children. Temple Sinai ECE stresses growth through hands-on discovery and exploration. The school's developmental curriculum is carried through into the Judaic curriculum, where Shabbat and holidays are celebrated through art, singing, stories, cooking, creative dramatics, and classroom celebration.