The Springfield Urban League is proud to announce that its Head Start program has officially been awarded the Silver Circle of Quality by ExceleRate Illinois—a prestigious recognition that highlights our steadfast commitment to excellence in early childhood education.

This achievement reflects more than just a certification; it is a clear affirmation of the program’s dedication to fostering a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The Silver Circle status is reserved for programs that meet or exceed quality benchmarks established by the state, with a strong focus on staff qualifications, learning environments, and continuous quality improvement.

At the heart of this recognition is the exceptional work of our Head Start team—educators and caregivers who consistently invest in their professional development and bring passion, care, and expertise to every child they serve. Their dedication ensures that each child is given the foundation they need to thrive both in the classroom and beyond.

“For families, this designation is more than just a title—it’s a promise,” said Head Start Site Manager Dottie Duffy. “Providing quality in early learning and development will help our children in Springfield be better prepared for success in school and in life.”

The Silver Circle of Quality designation signifies that Springfield Urban League’s Head Start program is not only meeting state standards—it is raising the bar for what early childhood education can be. It demonstrates to parents and caregivers that their children are receiving top-tier care and instruction tailored to support school readiness, emotional well-being, and lifelong success.

At the Springfield Urban League, we stand by our belief that “Every Child Deserves a Head Start”—and we are honored to be that starting point for so many families in our community.

To learn more about the Silver Circle of Quality and what it represents for early childhood programs, visit www.excelerateillinois.com.

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