Samaritan Early Learning Center (SELC) announced today that it successfully achieved the Oregon Program of Quality (OPQ) Designation. The OPQ process enhances and recognizes the quality of child care programs, resulting in a special designation.

“As an educator, I believe in building the best possible program to ensure that all children are able to reach their full potential both educationally and developmentally,” said Annette Delehanty, MS Ed., director of SELC.

SELC participated in the first OPQ statewide-cohort. To achieve the designation, SELC had to meet research-based standards for program quality, including collaborative family partnerships, child development and learning, highly qualified personnel, health and safety practices, developmental environments, and effective administration and business practices.

“Each OPQ standard is an indication of a quality program, and SELC is honored to have been chosen to participate in the first cohort,” said Delehanty.

The Oregon Program of Quality is an initiative of EQUIP, the state's innovative public-private partnership aimed at improving the quality of child care, strengthening the early care and education workforce and preparing Oregon's youngest children for success in school.

Samaritan Early Learning Center is dedicated to creating learning experiences for children six weeks to eight years of age in a caring environment. A new SELC building was constructed in 2011, in partnership with the City of Lincoln City, the North Lincoln Health District, Samaritan Health Services and the North Lincoln Hospital Foundation. The new building can serve up to 91 children, providing enriching experiences to local families.