Accreditation standards are based on two sets of accepted criteria for high quality, the NAEYC standards for programming and the American Public Health Association/American Academy of Pediatrics National Health and Safety Performance Standards. “Providing children with a quality early education is of the utmost importance to Minnieland,” said Chuck Leopold, Minnieland founder. “It is an honor to have our efforts recognized by NECPA and we intend to continue providing this high level of excellence to all of the children in our care every day.” Belinda Thomas, Director of Child Care Operations, commented, “As our schools are awarded NECPA accreditation, they are placed among a select group of early childhood education centers nationwide distinguished by their quality, their commitment to young children, and their dedication to excellence.” The heart of NECPA accreditation focuses on the quality care the children experience. The process carefully considers all aspects of a program. Each Minnieland center was studied and evaluated in the areas of professional training, work environment, outdoor environment, developmental program, parent and community involvement, and administration. The program begins with a self-assessment by the center management, staff and parents. The next step is developing an action plan to address challenges and raise standards, followed by an on-site visit by a trained NECPA verifier. The final component is a review by the NECPA National Accreditation Council. Accreditation is granted for three years with satisfactory annual reviews. The emphasis is on the children’s relationships with the staff and how the program helps each child grow and learn intellectually, physically, socially, and emotionally. Additionally, the health and safety of each child is paramount to evaluating the school. The accreditation is valid for three years, after which the program must complete the process again in order to maintain its accredited status. In awarding accreditation to Minnieland, NECPA president, Harsh Chadha stated, “The NECPA accreditation program has been carefully crafted to create public understanding of the benefits of high quality early childhood care and education. Coupled with this increased understanding is a raised awareness of the professional expertise required to deliver that high quality care and an appreciation of the advantages that children receive from accredited centers and schools.”