Maryland Accreditation Is Now Awarded for 5 Years!

What is Maryland Accreditation?

Show your commitment to providing the best education every day.

Maryland Accreditation is a way for licensed child care centers and public prekindergarten programs to demonstrate their commitment to providing high-quality learning. (Please note: Family Child Care programs are not currently eligible to pursue Maryland Accreditation.) 

Programs pursue Maryland Accreditation using the following tools: 

  • Maryland Accreditation Standards for early childhood and school-age programs
  • Self-Appraisal, including input from your staff and enrolled families
  • Program Improvement Plan based on areas of need for improvement
  • Review of program improvements through a Final Self-Appraisal
  • Optional support through virtual or onsite Technical Assistance
  • Observation and feedback through a Validation Visit

What are the benefits of Maryland Accreditation?

Benefits of Maryland Accreditation include the following:

  • Eligibility for Maryland EXCELS Quality Rating 5
  • Higher Maryland EXCELS Payments
  • Access to Accreditation Support Funds for purchasing instructional materials
  • Eligibility to participate in Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood PLUS
  • Opportunity to increase staff and family engagement
  • Demonstrates your dedication to excellence in services for families and your community