East Bay Community Action Preschools Earn BrightStars Rating

The five pre-school centers run by East Bay Community Action have received high marks after an assessment by the BrightStars quality ranking system.

The Head Start program received quality ratings for the schools operating in Newport, Tiverton, Warren and East Providence and it sends a message to parents that the schools don't just meet, but exceed state standards. 

"EBCAP is now recognized for its ongoing efforts to provide high standards of quality education and care," the nonprofit said in a release. "A BrightStars rating recognizes programs that demonstrate quality above and beyond state licensing standards.  EBCAP has taken in important step and is making a big difference in the lives of children." 

“We are passionate about providing high quality education and care for children and the families we serve and are proud to be recognized for that commitment.  Our caring and dedicated team makes it possible to provide high quality educational services for our infants, toddlers and preschoolers” said Linda Laliberte, Director of Education.  

In order to achieve a BrightStars rating, the program was assessed across many quality standards and criteria. Schools that obtain the ratings are meant to offer reassurance to parents that the schools are high quality and rigorous. 

“BrightStars raises the bar for early childhood and school-aged programs in Rhode Island”, said Lisa Hildebrand, Acting Director of BrightStars.  “EBCAP’s BrightStars participation means that they are a key player in a statewide effort to ensure high-quality early childhood care and education for Rhode Island families. 

EBCAP is currently accepting applications for its school year preschool and RI Department of Education pre-kindergarten classrooms. 

School is scheduled to begin on September 1, 2014.  EBCAP also has openings in its extended day Early Head Start (infant-toddler) and Head Start preschool (3 and  4 year olds) classrooms and the EHS home based program.   To be eligible for the RIDE pre-kindergarten classrooms, children must be 4 years of age by September 1 and must be a Newport resident.  Applications for the RIDE classroom must be received by August 6, 2014 to be eligible to participate in the lottery for placement.    

For more information about EBCAP Head Start and enrollment, visit www.ebcap.org or call toll free 877 367 2008.

For more information about EBCAP or other BrightStars programs, visit www.BrightStars.org or call 401-739-6100.