RVC Early Childhood Program Earns NAEYC Accreditation

RVC Early Childhood Program Earns NAEYC Accreditation

• Students
• 09/01/2026

Rock Valley College's Early Childhood Education program has earned first-time accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), recognizing the program's commitment to preparing highly qualified early childhood educators.

The accreditation was granted by NAEYC's Commission on the Accreditation of Early Childhood Higher Education Programs during its summer 2026 meeting. RVC was among six institutions receiving first-time accreditation. Seven additional institutions received renewed accreditation.

There are currently 185 NAEYC-accredited early childhood higher education programs across 36 states, with 75 additional programs participating in the self-study process.

"Earning this accreditation validates our commitment to developing Early Childhood Education professionals prepared to support our community's youngest learners," said Isabel Cano, RVC Early Childhood Education coordinator. "This recognition motivates us to continue advancing our program and expanding opportunities for our graduates to make a meaningful difference in children's lives."

NAEYC accreditation provides a framework for ensuring early childhood professional preparation programs maintain a consistent and high level of quality while aligning with the Professional Standards and Competencies for Early Childhood Educators. The accreditation process also recognizes the unique mission, context and community needs of each program.

Early childhood professional preparation programs serve a diverse range of students and prepare educators to work in a variety of early learning settings. At RVC, students gain the knowledge and skills needed to support young children and families while preparing for careers in the early childhood field.

To earn and maintain accreditation, programs must demonstrate that they meet NAEYC's Higher Education Accreditation Standards, respond to the needs of degree candidates and their communities, and provide intentional learning experiences aligned with professional standards.

Programs must also continuously assess and reflect on student performance to ensure candidates are developing the knowledge and skills needed to become effective early childhood educators.

The accreditation represents an important milestone for RVC's Early Childhood Education program and reinforces the college's commitment to preparing professionals who play a critical role in the development and education of the region's youngest learners.

"The instructors and staff are always so enthusiastic and supportive as well as encouraging. The feedback and support I received from my instructors gave me the confidence I needed to continue learning and be the best I can be," said RVC Early Childhood Education student Kenyatta Henderson. "I wanted to enhance and improve the quality of care for the little ones I care for. RVC has helped me accomplish that goal."

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