91·çÁ÷’s nationally accredited Early Childhood Education program expands opportunities for educators

OGDEN, Utah — For the seventh year in a row, Weber State University’s Early Childhood Education program received accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children’s Higher Education Commission. 

91·çÁ÷ was among the first institutions in the nation to pilot NAEYC’s accreditation program — which involves meeting rigorous benchmarks and standards — in 2018. Last year, 91·çÁ÷ led the way by piloting NAEYC’s updated 2021 national accreditation standards and remains the only higher education program in Utah to achieve this honor. 

“Achieving and maintaining this accreditation reflects our deep commitment to excellent early childhood education for children from birth through third grade,” said Carrie Ota, child and family studies professor. She notes the vital role of the program’s Melba S. Lehner Children’s School, which provides hands-on mentorship opportunities for 91·çÁ÷ students and prepares them to positively impact each child. The program also provides care and education for young children of 91·çÁ÷ students, faculty, staff, and the surrounding community. 

The Early Childhood Education program also supports aspiring educators through stackable credential pathways tailored for those currently working in the field, including military personnel and Spanish-speaking educators. This initiative integrates online coursework, field experiences, apprenticeships, and bilingual learning options.

“High-quality early childhood education starts with well-prepared educators,” said Wei Qiu, early childhood education professor. “By creating flexible and accessible pathways, we directly address Utah’s workforce needs.”

Graduates of the program enter their careers prepared to make a difference in their community and shape the next generation. Sadie Oppong, who graduates this year, said the program helped her discover unique strengths that shaped her into the best teacher she can be. She credits faculty support, hands-on training, and more than 500 hours of real-world teaching experience. 

“We provide flexible pathways, scholarships, and apprenticeships that allow our students to gain valuable field experience and graduate ready to make a difference without financial strain,” said Sheila Anderson, early childhood associate professor. “We are grateful for the longstanding Melba S. Lehner endowment that continues to support scholarships and our lab school.”

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Visit the Child & Family Studies website or contact Dr. Sheila Anderson (sanderson@weber.edu) for information about the Early Childhood and Early Childhood Education programs.