The South Whidbey Children’s Center has received recognition for its high rating in Early Achievers, Washington State’s Quality Rating and Improvement System, according to a recent news release.

The center received a score of four out of a possible five points.

Kris Barker, executive director, said that Early Achievers will not release the exact numbers, but said that only a “handful” of schools in the state attained a score of four or above.

According to the release, South Whidbey Children’s Center staff completed several months of preparation prior to the evaluation, including online and in-person training sessions for teachers as well as on-site consultations in quality child care and early learning practices.

The review was conducted by an independent committee from the University of Washington.

Barker noted that the distinction validates the center’s educational philosophy and beliefs supporting social, emotional and cognitive development in children, according to the release.

More than 25 states have a Quality Rating Improvement System for early childcare, the release states. Washington State began implementing the system in July of 2012.

South Whidbey Children’s Center also received recognition for their quality “interactions and environment” and professionalism.

The achievement affords center staff access to additional training and resources.