BENNINGTON, Vt. — The Learning Tree Childcare Center at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC), a member of Dartmouth Health, has earned 5 stars from Vermont's Step Ahead Recognition System (STARS). 

 

STARS is Vermont's Quality Recognition and Improvement System (QRIS) for child care, preschool, and afterschool programs.

 

"The health and development of every child we serve at The Learning Tree is the top priority of our educators," said Nancy Noel, the center's director. "This STARS achievement is a reflection of that commitment to our kids and their families."

 

According to the Child Development Division of Vermont, participation in STARS means that a program is striving beyond licensing regulations to meet higher quality standards, uphold professional practices, and commit to continuous quality improvement.

 

Currently, The Learning Tree has 59 enrolled students who range in age from six weeks to 5 years old. The center's 19 staff utilize the Northern Lights Career Ladder at the Community College of Vermont, which offers six different levels of learning and professional development. Staff are mentored by Learning Tree leadership through their educational journey, which can range from recent high school grads to college students and those who have already earned degrees.  Recently, one of the Learning Tree's teachers, Haley Harrington, was named 2024 Vermont Early Childhood Education Student of the Year from the Vermont Association for the Education of Young Children (VTAEYC).

 

"While it is no surprise to me that the Learning Tree staff has achieved another 5-five star designation, this is no small feat," said Ronald Zimmerman, Vice President of Support Services, who oversees The Learning Tree. "This process takes a lot of time and effort and we're beyond fortunate to have a team that goes the extra mile for local children and families."

 

The Learning Tree Childcare Center has been participating in the program since 2010 and has held 5 stars for the past several years.