NEDERLAND - In 2019, TEENS, Inc. took over New Explorers Learner Center (NELC) at 391 West 1st Street, and have since improved operations to such an impressive degree they have been recognized on a state level, and have been awarded a prestigious...
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NEDERLAND - In 2019, TEENS, Inc. took over New Explorers Learner Center (NELC) at 391 West 1st Street, and have since improved operations to such an impressive degree that they have been recognized on a state level, and have been awarded a prestigious rating.
TEENS, Inc. has grown NELC to distinction with unique programs that utilize community resources – such as collaborations with Wild Bear Nature Center, where kids learn to respectfully explore the nature around us – and visits from the Nederland Fire Protection District to teach kids proper fire safety.
In addition to the NELC’s curriculum, the child care center’s staff is also exceptional, as is the support from local families, whose involvement in their children’s early education is greatly encouraged.
On November 27, 2024, it was announced that NELC had achieved a Level 5 rating for early education, known as Colorado Shines. This is the highest accomplishment possible to be earned through the State of Colorado’s “quality rating and improvement system.”
A Colorado Shines rating indicates that a child care program is licensed and “in good standing,” meets health and safety standards, and is regularly reviewed by state officials. Colorado Shines rates these programs based on how well they support health, safety, and overall good business practices; on how well-trained and effective their staff is; on whether they provide a suitable environment for learning; and on how well parents are included.
"I am incredibly proud of the NELC staff,” says Stephen LeFaiver, Executive Director of TEENS, Inc. “Achieving a Level 5 rating is no small feat—it requires dedication, hard work, and resilience in navigating a rigorous evaluation process.”
While a Level 1 rating only ensures that a child care program has met basic standards, a Level 5 rating, which only 3% of Colorado preschools have earned, indicates that the program meets the highest standards of excellence across all areas of operation.
In addition to the “rigorous evaluation” of NELC’s curriculum, environment, health and safety practices, staff, and leadership, in order to reach the milestone of Level 5, the program also underwent a thorough evaluation by state officials.
“This recognition is a testament to the amazing care and education they provide to the children in our community every day,” LeFaiver continued, praising NELC’s dedicated teachers.
A press release from TEENS, Inc. noted that NELC is the only year-round preschool serving families with children two-and-a-half to seven years old in the Peak to Peak region. After investing over $50,000 into property repairs and improvements, the facility is at capacity, serving up to 20 tots, with no option for expanding.
However, after gaining approval from both the community and the Board of Trustees through the Nederland public process, a brand new childcare facility is planned, which will allow TEENS, Inc. and NELC to serve many more families in the region, and expand those very same services that have earned them Level 5 status.
“Early childhood education is essential for our community’s future, and we’re committed to expanding access,” said LeFaiver. “This Level 5 rating is just the beginning.”
For more information about TEENS, Inc., NELC, or about the fundraising campaign currently underway for the new NELC facility, which aims to expand early childhood education in the Nederland area, email info@teensinc.org or visit https://teensinc.org.