Receiving accreditation

means that the school's program met or exceeded NSACA's requirements for

accreditation based on its 144 quality standards for school-age care.

These standards describe the best practices in after school programs.

They are focused on six keys to quality: human relationships, indoor environment,

outdoor environment, activities, safety, health and nutrition and administration.

In order to

gain accreditation, Hood Avenue's ASP underwent a self-study process that

involved the program's staff, children, families and community members.

A self-study team was formed to determine how the school's program was

meeting the national standards for quality.

After working

to meet the 144 NSACA standards for quality, the program applied for an

endorsement visit. Two trained school-age professionals observed Hood

Avenue's program for 24 hours and met with families,

program staff

and community leaders. They sent a detailed report to NSACA upon which

it was determined that Hood Avenue's ASP met the criteria for NSACA accreditation.

"We are

very happy with this program and the staff. I never worry if my child

is safe and happy when she is in ASP, and that is the most important thing

to me," said one parent whose student attends the program at Hood.

The school

system's goal is to have all of its programs accredited by NSACA, according

to ASP Director Julie Simpson. Due to the complexity of applying for accreditation,

one program is being selected each year

Organized in

1987, NSACA is a professional membership organization with state affiliates

and over 8,000 members nationwide. NSACA members are leaders in the school-age

field that serves over 3.2 million school-age children and youth. NSACA

developed the national accreditation system to recognize programs that

are offering stimulating, safe and supportive programs for children and

youth aged 5-14.