Fort McCoy School Age Services after-school program receives re-accreditation

By Rob Schuette, Fort McCoy Public AffairsMarch 25, 2010

Fort McCoy SAS
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT McCOY, Wis. -- The Fort McCoy Child, Youth & School Services School Age Services program has received re-accreditation for its after-school program.

Members of the National AfterSchool Association (NAA) conducted an on-site inspection visit in late 2009, said Cori Yahnke, acting SAS director.

The accreditation recognizes the program for quality afterschool programming, application of NAA standards for quality school-age care to daily practice, and a long-term commitment to the children and Families in the Fort McCoy community.

Program strengths observed by the NAA endorsers included Families and children recognized through the Star Program. Parents created collages of Family members engaged in various activities, and these photos were posted in the front lobby for all to see.

Children were recognized as star students for their initiatives in eight categories: most helpful, respectful, good listener, responsible, scholarly, best bus rider, trustworthy and best attitude.

"We were recognized for having the 4-H Adventure Club lead weekly meetings and its members addressing the concerns and questions of older youth," Yahnke said. "The group also addressed what the youth wanted in terms of upcoming activities and future projects."

The staff appeared to like working with each other, according to the site inspection team report.

This led to them displaying respect for each other, the children and the parents.

Finally, the facility was clean, bright, and presented a homelike environment where children could rest, relax, play and have fun interacting with each other in a safe environment, the site inspection team report said.

"The accreditation award you have earned took solid leadership, teamwork, Family support and perseverance," said Christine Schmidt, NAA accreditation manager. "All of these qualities also will help ensure that your program continues to maintain the high level of quality that you have attained."

Yahnke said Fort McCoy sought the accreditation because it is required by the Army and also indicates a quality, top-notch program.

"The Army has set a goal to have 100 percent of its after-school programs accredited," Yahnke said. "This provides consistency throughout the programs and also helps ensure military Families receive high-quality care throughout the system no matter where they are stationed."

The Fort McCoy accreditation will be valid through November 2013.

For more information about the NAA, visit the Web site http://naaweb.site-ym.com/.

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