National Accreditation

What is it? - The National Early Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA) is an independent, voluntary accreditation program which has several components. The first is a thorough self-assessment of the program by management, staff, and parents to determine how closely the NECPA standards are being met. The second component is an action plan to address weaknesses. The third component is an on-site visit by a trained NECPA Verifier. And the fourth component is a review by the NECPA National Accreditation Council. The process is self-paced.

The NECPA accreditation process examines program areas such as professional development, work environment, outdoor environment, developmental program, parent and community involvement, and administration. It begins with a self-assessment and improvement plan which the center implements. A volunteer peer verifier then follows up with an on-site visit. The National Accreditations Council studies the results of the assessment, reviews the verification and grants accreditation.

As a prerequisite to accreditation, all centers must have a license in good standing from their respective states for at least one year. Full accreditation is granted for three years with satisfactory annual reviews. There are restrictions regarding changes in location and management for accredited centers.

Consistent Quality of Care 

As an early childhood care and education professionals we strive on a daily basis to provide a place where children can learn, play, and grow--a place that will be safe, an environment that is both caring and stimulating. That’s why over 14 years ago we understood the value and made accreditation a priority. We have one degreed staff person whose job is to monitor licensing and accreditation. Our employees complete an additional 20 hours in first aid and CPR as well as Continuing Education Units (CEUs)

State Licensing is required but not all you need. 

We advise parents to look for a daycare that has established and well-practiced procedures in place, especially those for safety children and continuing education of the staff. Yes, you’re paying for a top-notch facility and expertise that comes with it. Make note of the qualifications of the teachers and the center director.  Ask how the training is done and who pays for it. Is it voluntary or a condition of employment?  How is the staff evaluated?  [Click Here for Our Answers]

Early Childhood Development expertise is vital at HoneyTree—each of our locations has a staff person with a degree in education or early childhood development. That’s also why we have stepped up to the more strenuous requirements of national accreditation.  We comply and are audited against the standards of the National Early Childhood Program Accreditation. (NECPA).  We proudly display this logo on our vans and on our materials not because we’re “members” but because it takes nearly two (2) years and thousands of dollars on improvements, upgrades and self-evaluation and monitoring to earn the right to display this accomplishment.  Not every Center will put themselves up to this scrutiny.    

Of the 70-some church-sponsored and full-time centers for child care in the Valley, only 26 are licensed and audited by the state once a year.  Only ONE, open-enrollment center is accredited by the NECPA and serves USDA approved menus; HoneyTree Early Learning Centers. 

The State requires 10 hours of continuing education (CEUs) right now.  In 2006, the CEU requirement will increase to 12 hours per employee.  Through NECPA accreditation, HoneyTree employees complete 25-30 CEUs, in addition to their first aid/CPR certifications—twice the requirement by the Commonwealth. Ninety percent (90%) of our staff is trained in first aid and 50% in child CPR

Area Daycare Exceeds Standards for Fourteen Consecutive Years
Roanoke, Virginia, August 25, 2005 Read News Release >>>