Caverna Independent Schools is proud to announce that Caverna Preschool has earned a 5-Star rating through Kentucky All STARS, the highest level of recognition awarded through the Commonwealth's quality rating and improvement system for early childhood education programs.

The Kentucky All STARS program recognizes child care and preschool programs that demonstrate excellence in teaching and learning, family engagement, staff qualifications, and leadership practices. Programs earning a 5-Star rating have met the state's most rigorous standards and are recognized as providing the highest level of quality in early childhood education.

Kentucky All STARS evaluates programs across four key areas:

• Family and Community Engagement

• Classroom and Instructional Quality

• Staff Qualifications and Professional Development

• Administrative and Leadership Practices

To achieve a 5-Star rating, programs must also receive the highest possible score on a nationally recognized environmental observation tool while demonstrating exceptional quality across all required standards.  

Superintendent Amanda Abell shared her pride in the accomplishment: "We are incredibly proud of our preschool program. Earning a five-star rating reflects the dedication, hard work, and passion our preschool staff bring to supporting our students and their families every day."  

The achievement is the result of months of preparation, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment from the preschool team to provide the best possible learning environment for Caverna's youngest learners.  

Preschool teacher Ashley Gann reflected on the work behind the recognition:  "Behind the scenes of our Five-Star rating were countless hours of lesson planning, lots of teamwork, unwavering dedication to our students, and teachers who pour their hearts into every school day. I'm so proud of what we've accomplished together, and even more proud that it reflects the loving, high-quality environment our children deserve."

Kenetha Scott also emphasized that the process represented much more than completing a checklist: "The preschool TPOT and STARS process was much more than a checklist, it was a journey of planning, collaboration, reflection, and continuous improvement. Every member of our preschool team poured their hearts into creating a high-quality learning environment where every child can thrive. Receiving our 5-Star recognition is an incredible honor and a testament to our dedication, teamwork, and commitment to the children and families we serve in the Caverna District."

Preschool teacher Heather Gentry shared how the team's dedication has impacted students: "Our team truly earned the five-star rating we received. We built positive classroom environments and helped prepare students for future success. Through our dedication, patience, and commitment, we have provided students with the foundational skills that will prepare them to be great members of our school and community."

The Kentucky All STARS 5-Star designation reinforces Caverna Independent Schools' commitment to Inspire, Nurture, and Empower every student from their very first classroom experience. By earning the highest possible rating, Caverna Preschool has demonstrated its dedication to providing exceptional early childhood education that prepares children for success in school and beyond.