CDC, SAP earn DOD certification

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Julius Delos Reyes
  • 50th Space Wing Public Affairs
SCHRIEVER AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. --  The Schriever Child Development Center and School Age Program recently earned a Department of Defense certification.

"Children are our most precious resource," said Lt. Col. Jason Nahrgang, 50th Force Support Squadron commander. "We would be remiss in our duties if we did not constantly strive to secure the best possible environment, staff and curriculum to further the development of and provide enriching experiences for our charges. Receiving our DOD certification further validates our substantial efforts, lends credibility to the program and should give parents peace of mind when entrusting their children to us on a daily basis."

An annual requirement, the certification process looked at various areas of the center and the programs, including safety, health, curriculum, positive guidance and more. Inspectors also observed classrooms and reviewed all training records and procedures. This is consistent with the National Association for Education of Young Children, which provides accreditation to CDC.

"The certification represents a stamp of quality care for the child development center and school age program," said Mary Barkley, Airman and Family Services Flight chief.

In preparation for the certification, staff members went through different required annual training such as child abuse prevention training, positive guidance, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, first aid and more. They have to meet all health and safety requirements within the classrooms and facility. They also have to conduct record checks and administrative preparations, including children's records and staff files.

"The staff work really hard to prepare for our DOD inspection every year," Barkley said. "They put in extra hours. Sometimes, we have to do weekend training for staff to make sure they are in compliance with AF standards. It's a huge task for everybody and trainer and director, specifically, have the brunt. However, the responsibility in ensuring that the staff met the inspection criteria."

The DOD certification was just one of the numerous inspections the CDC and SAP endured. Prior to the certification, public health, safety, fire safety and multidisciplinary inspections were also conducted.

"Parents can be assured when they are looking for child care for their children that a program that is certified by the Department of Defense is going to offer quality care," Barkley said. "DOD certified programs are highly respected."

For more information, call the CDC at 567-4742.