Oberlin's Early Learning Program is Re-accredited.

August 16, 2023 —The State of Ohio has once again awarded Kendal’s preschool program a Five-Star Rating (its highest) for meeting the quality standards established by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and the Ohio Department of Education.

“Step Up To Quality” is a five-star tiered quality rating and improvement system created to recognize and promote early learning and development programs that meet quality standards over and above the health and safety licensing requirements.

Our KELC team works very hard to provide a quality environment, program, and individualized learning experiences for all children enrolled.  We believe that family is a child’s first educator, making the partnership between teachers and families even more important as we partner not only to educate the child, but also to prepare them for K-12 success.

Jeni Hoover, director of the Kendal Early Learning Center

Kendal’s Early Learning Center opened in January 1994, just three months after Kendal at Oberlin opened as a community for older adults and is licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. KELC is a small intimate center serving up to 30 preschool-age children. KELC has been accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) as a quality Early Learning Center since 1997 and follows NAEYC standards.

In January 2008, KELC completed the assessment process and applied to the state of Ohio to become a quality star-rated center. In March 2008, KELC became one of Ohio’s Three-Star Centers. After the state changed to a Five-Star Rating System, KELC was the first in Lorain County to be awarded that rating in March 2014 and has been rated a Five-Star Center ever since. KELC is also an International Program of Distinction from Generations United, recognizing the importance of intergenerational programming.

To learn more or to schedule a tour, email Director Jeni Hoover at jehoover@kao.kendal.org or call 440-775-9815.