Northside Early Learning Center Receives 4-Star Rating

Northside Early Learning Center has received a Quality Rating Improvement Systems (QRIS) 4 Star Rating. This indicates a high level of commitment and professionalism on the part of the staff in providing high-quality care and education to the young children enrolled in the program.

The Silver State Stars QRIS rating process is about continuous quality improvement. Each biennium, NELC staff undergoes an assessment of its early learning childhood environment using the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale (ECERS). Quality indicators include ratings in Space and Furnishings, Personal Care Routines, Language and

Literacy, Learning Activities in Fine Motor, Art, Music and Movement, Nature/Science, Mathematics, Interactions, and Program Structure.

At NELC, students can be seen building in the block center, exploring the Math & Science area, or working with the sand and water tables. NELC uses the Creative Curriculum teaching themes to highlight different learning topics throughout the year. Some examples of topics include clothes, buildings, gardening, insects, light, trees, wheels, and water. Students use these themes in various ways, including reading books, counting objects related to the theme, or creating projects or activities based on theme topics.

“Play-based learning is the natural, child-initiated, and teacher-supported way that learning occurs at NELC,” said Teacher on Special Assignment for Early Childhood, Dr. Mandie Hammer. “Our staff are trained to facilitate student-initiated discovery of new and interesting topics while also encouraging self-help and social-emotional skills while encouraging positive interactions with staff and other students.”

Each year, student growth on the quality indicators is measured from the beginning to the end of the year and must meet the conditions of the Nevada Ready PreK Grant. Program elements include specific teacher qualifications, income eligibility, time requirements, class size/ratio limits, evaluation, family engagement, comprehensive services, inclusion, and equitable access.

Assistant Superintendent Stacey Cooper is proud of the staff and leadership at NELC. “This achievement surpasses many other local early learning centers of this magnitude. We are dedicated to our families here in Fallon and want to provide the best learning environment possible for our students. College and career readiness starts early, and NELC is creating a phenomenal foundation for our future high school graduates,” said Cooper.