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Welcome to Discovery School!
Discovery School is a NAC
Accredited Program & QRS Star 4 and is Committed to Excellence!
Registration for Summer
Camp 2012 and the 2012-2013 school year begins Feb. 21.
Stop by the school for a tour and for more information!
Discovery
School was established in 1966 by Art Erb, who was, at that time, pastor of
First United Lutheran Church in O'Fallon, IL. Initially, the school was first
called Our World Preschool and was sponsored by the church, but with no
religious affiliation. Later, in 1978, it was incorporated independently as Our
World for Young Children. In 1982, the school was renamed DISCOVERY to avoid
confusion with other Our World programs. The school is incorporated as a
private, not-for-profit organization and is tax-exempt. It has charitable
organization status in the state of Illinois and is eligible to receive donated
funds from the Combined Federal Campaign.
Over the years, the school grew from a handful of children to its present size
of approximately 130 young children. It has expanded to include a Summer Camp,
Pre-School classes, Enrichment classes, Junior Kindergarten, and Project Child
(a program funded by the Illinois State Board of Education). The school also
sponsors special programs periodically, including parenting classes and
professional development workshops for staff.
In August of 2011,
Discovery was awarded accreditation by NAC (the National Accreditation
Commission for Early Care and Education Programs). As a NAC Accredited
center, Discovery School is recognized as an early care and education program
that exemplifies excellence in the care of young children. Discovery
School ensures a high quality program for children that is conducive to their
individual growth and development, provides professional training opportunities
for staff, and demonstrates that the center exceeds minimum state licensing
requirements for child care programs.
In December of 2011, Discovery was certified as a 4 Star
level through QRS. QRS (Quality Rating System) certification means a child
care provider has gone the extra mile to make sure children are receiving an
enhanced learning and care experience. The QRS certification is a detailed
process that takes many hours of preparation. Independent evaluators, using a
set of nationally recognized quality standards, observe the child care
environment. They observe how the practitioners work with the children, room set
up and what learning materials are available to children. They also review
practitioner education and training, and the overall administration of the
program.
The Star 4 level is the highest level achievable. We are
very proud of all that our staff has accomplished. Parents can be sure that
their children are receiving the best of all that Discovery offers.
Discovery School is the only school in Southern Illinois that has 4 stars, and
is among only a few in the state of Illinois.
As a parent of a child at
Discovery, you can rest comfortably knowing you have chosen an outstanding
program for your child! |
