Maryland EXCELS is sending a special shout-out to Jodi Russell, who recently used her Maryland EXCELS bonus to upgrade her furniture and learning materials. Looking good, Jodi! How has your program used its Maryland EXCELS bonus? Let us know in the comments!

Did you know programs with Quality Ratings 3, 4, or 5 receive monthly EXCELS Payments for accepting Child Care Scholarships? Payment amounts increase for each quality rating. To learn more, visit marylandexcels.org/resource/tiere…

Are you interested in pursuing Maryland Accreditation? With our self-paced online orientation, accreditation is easier than ever. For more information, visit ow.ly/8Utg50SNnhR

Did you know the Maryland Accreditation Support Fund can help you purchase learning materials for your classroom? Learn more about Maryland Accreditation at marylandexcels.org/maryland-accre…

Early childhood professionals can offer support and guidance to help families feel secure during transitions and help the children's experience. marylandexcelstoolkit.org/tips/making-tr… How do you support children during transitions? Please share below or tag us. #marylandexcels

Individualizing activities is an important part of a high-quality early education program. One way to ensure you’re meeting the needs of all children is through observation. Check out these observation tips: marylandexcels.org/post_tips/util…

Do you need help creating a Program Improvement Plan (PIP)? The Maryland EXCELS Toolkit now includes an interactive guide to assist you in writing a PIP. Access the Creating a Program Improvement Plan resource today! marylandexcelstoolkit.org/wp-content/upl…

QAS Petrea Hicks would like to recognize Brook Hill Weekday Preschool for their hard work in achieving a Maryland EXCELS Quality Rating 4. Brook Hill believes that being a part of Maryland EXCELS helps them provide the best early education. Congratulations, Brook Hill!

Did you know that research shows suspensions and expulsions happen more in early childhood settings than at the K-12 level? These resources provide tips and strategies to help prevent suspension and expulsion of young children. ow.ly/voZY50STTBu ow.ly/KHbw50STTBr

Child care providers can help reduce the stress around transitions. Transition plans can help children and parents adjust successfully. marylandexcels.org/post_tips/maki… How do you support children during transitions? Share in the comments or tag us. #marylandexcels

Did you know the Maryland EXCELS Toolkit has prompts and tips to help you write a Selection and Use of Materials Statement? If you need guidance selecting developmentally appropriate learning materials and increasing rich interactions, use this resource: ow.ly/irWV50SWaFz

Did you know the Maryland EXCELS Toolkit now includes information and resources to support public prekindergarten programs? You can find guidance for requirements and resources in one convenient place. No login required! Check it out! marylandexcelstoolkit.org

A newsletter is a great way to share achievements and highlight your high-quality services. Visit the "Newsletter Content" resource for templates and tips: ow.ly/wunb50SZoet Are you promoting your program on social media? Don’t forget to tag us! #marylandexcels

Check out our "Introduction to Maryland EXCELS Additional Achievements" video to learn more about the benefits of earning Additional Achievements and how they demonstrate your commitment to providing the best possible care for children. ow.ly/AvOm50T2Xsy

Is your program taking steps to keep our planet healthy? Programs that become community partners to protect the environment may be eligible for the Eco-Friendly Program Additional Achievement. Learn more about this achievement: ow.ly/bHZm50T2XMg

Using positive guidance is an important part of providing high-quality care and education. Check out prompts from the Maryland EXCELS Toolkit to develop a Positive Behavioral Practices Policy. ow.ly/rhHZ50T2Y3n

If you’re looking for low-cost, MSDE-approved training, check out these online courses. thinkport.org/msde-clock-hou…

Congratulations to Keri Shaner on becoming NAFCC accredited and reaching a Maryland EXCELS Quality Rating 5! Quality Assurance Specialist Ashley Hensley says she's been amazed by her motivation and dedication to the accreditation process. You did it!

Did you know the Maryland State Department of Education introduced a Fast-Track Child Care Scholarship Application? The new process cuts the wait time for approval to three business days. Learn more: marylandchild.org/child-care-sch…

Display your commitment to quality by showcasing the Maryland EXCELS Quality Rating badges on your program’s website. Discover more about quality rating badges section and other ideas for promoting your program: marylandexcels.org/commitment-to-…