Timmons Elementary School was recently notified that they were again recognized with the 5 Star Rating for the preschool program from the Ohio Department of Education Step Up to Quality Program. The program was first awarded the 5 Star standard of excellence in 2019.
Step Up To Quality is a five star quality rating and improvement system administered by the Ohio Department of Education and the Department of Job and Family Services. This rating system recognizes and promotes learning and development programs meeting quality program standards that exceed preschool learning expectations and licensing regulations. The measures are based on national research identifying standards that lead to improved outcomes for children.
Four years ago, Kenston decided to accept all supervisory and fiscal responsibility for the preschool services located in Timmons Elementary School. Previously, preschool services for students with disabilities were operated within the district by the Geauga County Educational Service Center now the Educational Service Center of the Western Reserve. With the increase in preschool-eligible students, a consortium with the county and shared services with other school districts were no longer necessary.
The decision allowed Kenston to provide services for all Kenston students within the Kenston District and community, and transportation to programs available across the county was no longer necessary. It made sense for Kenston to begin full oversight of the program. This decision also had financial implications. By operating the program as a part of Timmons School, administrative support and related service personnel efficiencies resulted in a decrease in the cost of preschool programming.