Rend Lake College Early Childhood Education Program-Mission Statement

The Rend Lake College Early Childhood Education Program provides students with a quality educational experience with experiential learning opportunities. These educational experiences are sound in developmentally appropriate practices for children ages birth through eight years. The program believes early childhood graduates are prepared to provide quality care in positions as family child care providers or as teachers/directors in child care centers, family group homes, and Head Start Programs.

To fulfill its mission and uphold its related principles, Rend Lake College/Early Childhood Education Program will:

• provide background checks for all Early Childhood candidates
• maintain an open admissions policy while establishing standards for selected courses
• provide quality instruction with small class enrollment
• provide an accredited laboratory setting, with bachelor-level teachers, and a developmentally appropriate curriculum
• provide multi-faceted experiential opportunities with infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children
• provide a clear understanding of DCFS and NAEYC accreditation regulations
• provide students with a thorough understanding of developmentally appropriate practices
• provide students with supervisory/director internship