State gives Mini U at Wright State Five Star Step Up to Quality Award

A view from inside the the geo-dome at Mini University at Wright State. The learning space opened in September 2013.

In recognition of a commitment to quality and an ongoing dedication to the learning and development of children, Mini University at Wright State University has received a Five Star Step Up To Quality Award from the state of Ohio.

Step Up To Quality is Ohio’s rating system for early learning and development programs. Participating programs can earn a one-to five-star rating.

“We are proud to be the first five-star program in Greene County,” said Monica Patrie, director of Mini University at Wright State. “We know that children have 1,892 days from birth until school starts and every day matters. It is important to us that children develop their self-confidence, social and emotional skills and a love of learning.”

Mini University at Wright State University

Research confirms the first five years of a child’s life have a direct impact on how children develop emotional well-being, in addition to learning and social skills. For these reasons, the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and the Ohio Department of Education are committed to improving early childhood opportunities for all children in the state.

In addition to meeting all standards of a four-star rating, programs may receive a five-star rating if they:

• Have lower staff/child ratios
• Use child assessment results to plan activities that best support learning and development goals for each child
• Share assessment results and create goals for children
• Develop plans to support children as they transition to a new classroom or educational setting
• Work with other organizations or businesses in the community to support children and their families
• Have an active and organized parent volunteer group and advisory board
• Use input from families and community partners to inform the program’s continuous improvement process
• Are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children

To learn more about Mini U at Wright State, visit miniuniversity.net/wright-state-university.asp