WAYNESBORO – “Noah’s Ark (Christian Child Care Center) has always been at the forefront of providing quality child care, and I’m so proud to continue the legacy of excellence,” said the director of the Waynesboro center.
Lindsay Cook was touting the recent designation of the Waynesboro center as STAR 4 through Keystone STARS. “Four years ago, Noah’s Ark obtained a STAR 4 designation and this was a big deal because it is quite difficult to obtain. I just received notice that after a grueling redesignation process (which happens every three to four years), the Ark and I have once again received a STAR 4 credentialing.,” added Cook, director since 2022.
Keystone STARS is a responsive system to improve, support and recognize the continuous quality improvement efforts of early learning programs in Pennsylvania.
“STARS is a quality rating system, from 1 to 4, and during my research I learned that just 30 percent of Pennsylvania daycares earn the four star rating. That’s such an incredible feat for Noah’s Ark,” added Cook.
The director and center employee for many years was quick to credit founder and former director Jamie Pearson for her 31-year effort. “We wouldn’t be who we are without her, and it’s an honor to continue that tradition in this community.”
Cook also lauded the dedication of Noah’s Ark staff. “And also with their support we have been able to continue to provide continuous quality child care to our community. We value that. That’s who we are.
“The Ark is so proud of this achievement … not only because it continues our outstanding reputation of providing quality care, but because this is a new team. We went through this process together and achieved it together,” according to Cook. She added that the majority of staff was added over the last three years.
STARS has a rebuilding requirement, that 50 percent or more of employees are enrolled in or have achieved higher education, she added. “We value having employees here who are well educated so that we can provide exceptional care for the children in our community. So with this team of well educated and well experienced men and women, we achieved this goal together. I could not have done it without them.”
Noah’s Ark, which opened in 1990, is an extension of the Christ United Methodist Church. There are programs for young infants through fifth grade.
