The University of Central Arkansas College of Education’s Child Study Center has earned re-accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), extending its certification through January 2030.
This prestigious recognition makes the UCA Child Study Center the only NAEYC-accredited preschool in Faulkner County, as well as one of only 15 accredited preschools across Arkansas and reaffirms the Child Study Center’s commitment to providing high-quality early childhood education.
“NAEYC accreditation is a prestigious accomplishment. It represents the highest standard of excellence in early childhood education. It is a mark of distinction that shows a dedication to fostering the growth and development of children in a nurturing, well-prepared environment,” said Victoria Groves-Scott. “I’m extremely proud of the Child Study Center teachers and director for their continued commitment to educational excellence.”
The Child Study Center received accreditation in 2005 and has been in operation since at least 1980. The center serves approximately 60 three- and four-year-old children each year. The curriculum is individualized based on specific learning needs of enrolled children. The Child Study Center is a community-based program and offers no enrollment preference to children of UCA employees or students.
The center’s goals are to:
- Provide community service to area families and a distinguishing characteristic for UCA.
- Serve as a model of developmentally appropriate activities with best practices demonstrated to benefit students in the program and college students involved in the teacher education program.
- Serve as a site for research and study of young children. Many departments from all over the UCA campus visit the Child Study Center for field opportunities throughout the semester.
- Provide an inclusive preschool program where children who have disabilities and who speak English as a Second Language are included in a regular classroom setting.
NAEYC accreditation is the gold standard for early childhood programs, ensuring adherence to rigorous classroom and program standards. During the re-accreditation process, an evaluator conducted a full-day observation of the Child Study Center’s teachers and facilities while also reviewing the program portfolio containing detailed evidence of compliance with NAEYC’s requirements.
For more information about the Child Study Center, visit uca.edu/childstudy. To learn more about NAEYC, visit naeyc.org.
