There are 412 licensed centers in the area, according to the Omaha Chamber of Commerce. Statewide, fewer than 1 percent of licensed centers are accredited, but Nebraska jumped from 42nd to 28th in the nation in the percentage of early childhood programs gaining national accreditation, according to the Nebraska Department of Education. The center staff underwent a comprehensive self-study, had an external review and additional blind review by a panel of child education experts. The accreditation signals a high-quality program marked by a safe and nurturing environment that promotes the physical, social, emotional and intellectual development of young children. Creighton's center provides large spaces for children and infants to explore.
Infants stay with the same teachers until they are two years old.
In many programs, children adjust to new staff and settings every three to six months. Susanne Schnitzer, assistant center director, expects the accreditation will signal to parents that the staff has high expectations in providing good quality care, and should help in recruiting additional well qualified and educated staff members. The center does face some challenges. Shonka would like to recruit more staff members who have earned bachelor's degrees in early childhood development and to increase communication between teachers and parents about children's development. To maintain the accreditation, center staff will submit annual reports and undergo another complete review in three years.