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In each of the six classrooms at Little Scholars Center in Newark, Del., teachers are engaged and caring. The language and interactions between the staff and children are warm, positive, and encouraging. There clearly is a team mindset with everyone focused on the same mission - what's best for the children.
"Our staff is excellent," said Karen Rice, center administrator. "We are all here for the kids. And we trust and believe in one another."
Karen, who's been in the early care and education field for more than 30 years, believes that the root of quality care is building strong relationships with her staff and families. Then, once you are connected, everyone is motivated to do more.
Technical Assistant Valerie Renshaw attests to the power of this approach. "Karen has created a real team with her staff. When a leader works with her staff, day in and day out, they return the loyalty. As a result, the staff is strong in the classroom, have solid relationships with their families and most importantly, strong bonds with their children."
The Little Scholars staff also "trusts and believes" in continuous quality improvement.
"We look to Delaware Stars to help us strive to improve quality everyday," said Jackie Wertman, Little Scholars teacher. "We don't hesitate to reach out to our TA to discuss changes and challenges. We talk through any questions and issues to support each other."
Valerie couldn't agree more. "All the staff celebrates their achievements together, and when they miss the mark (and we have), they work together to do better next time."
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