A photo from the 2015 opening of 'Little Raiders University' in Derby.
DERBY — The following press release was sent by Derby Public Schools:
Little Raiders University is proud to announce that it has received a new 5‑year accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). This prestigious national accreditation demonstrates our commitment to providing high quality early childhood education to the children and families we serve.
NAEYC is the leading organization in the United States dedicated to improving the quality of early childhood education. Accreditation by NAEYC is a rigorous process that involves an extensive review of our program and practices by a team of early childhood education professionals. The accreditation criteria include standards related to curriculum, teaching, assessment, health and safety, professional development, family engagement, and community partnerships.
Superintendent, Dr. Conway shared, “Receiving this accreditation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff and families in the Little Raiders University family. We are thrilled to receive this recognition, and we will continue to uphold the high standards set by NAEYC as we strive to provide the best possible fun-filled learning experience for our youngest scholars.”
At Little Raiders University, we are committed to creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment that supports the growth and development of young children. We offer a play-based curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and social development. Our amazing faculty and staff are highly trained and experienced in early childhood education, and they work closely with our families to ensure that each child receives individualized attention
and support.
LRU Director, Alison Conway said, “The Little Raiders University team is very dignified to have accomplished NAEYC re-accreditation. We all feel very gratified to be recognized for our commitment to reaching the highest professional standards and providing the highest quality of care and education which will prepare our students for their future success.”
Jim Gildea, Board of Education Chairman said, “The Derby school system is very excited to have received our NAEYC Accreditation for Little Raiders University. Early childhood education is such a key component of our overall educational strategy. Having such a wellknown and respected early childhood program is the cornerstone of the growth in the improvement that we have been seeing in academic achievement and success. We’re very grateful and proud for all those who have a hand in ensuring the success of the Little Raiders University program. They impact the lives of so many children year after year.”
LRU Parent, Amanda Carpenter stated, “We have had three children attend LRU and we are so very proud and grateful for the high-quality education that has been provided to them through the curriculum and educators at LRU. We have complete confidence that their early-childhood education has not only equipped them with readiness for kindergarten but also a foundation for all their future learning.”
