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Sarasota Star Providers
Sarasota area child care providers who are participating in Look for the Stars are exceeding the basic requirements for child care and are providing quality early learning environments for the children of Sarasota County.
All parents should visit at least 3 different sites to determine the best fit for their child. This guide is one tool to help with that process and parents should discuss with the provider their respective strengths and areas for improvement noted in their star level report.
Providers who achieve a 4 to 5+ star level are providing and maintaining high levels of quality childcare for the children of Sarasota County. Providers who achieve a 3 Star level are recognized for providing quality above state licensing requirements and have demonstrated that they are actively taking steps to improve quality. Sites rated below 3 Stars are not considered high quality at this time.
The Star Ratings are closely aligned with their CLASS assessment composite scores, as the state is requiring all VPK and School Readiness classrooms to be assessed using this tool. We believe that the CLASS tool reflects overall quality childcare by focusing on classroom interactions. Our scale starts at a 3 Star because that is what we consider sufficient quality and reflects the minimum CLASS score of a 4.0 that is needed to contract with the coalition.
Other criteria used when assigning star levels include, learning environment, classroom interactions, screening, assessment and inclusion, staff qualifications, and professional development.
Note: Gold Seal Certified sites are noted under the provider’s name.
Not every child care provider is listed on the Look for the Stars website. Some reasons a provider may not be listed include:
- Provider chose not to participate
- Provider wanted to participate, but did not have the opportunity to participate this year
- Provider was assessed but chose to opt out of participation
- Provider has a Class 1 licensing violation within the past year and is ineligible for participation this year
- Provider has received a CLASS score below a 4.0 and is ineligible for participation this year.
Parents can contact the Early Learning Coalition’s Look for the Stars line for information on why a provider is not on the list at 941.556.1600 ext. 229 or mail@elcsarasota.org.
Child Care Resource and Referral is a source of information on resources available for parents and can also provide a personalized list of child care options based on parents’ individual needs. including ages served, hours of operation, program enhancements, and other program information. Contact Child Care Resource and Referral at 941.556.1600 ext. 106 or mail@elcsarasota.org.
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) website is another resource, with a feature that allows parents to search for child care provider based on specific criteria.
Explanation of Scores and Ratings:
Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten- Every VPK is required by the state of Florida to be assessed using the CLASS tool. A CLASS score between 1.0-3.99 indicates a low level of quality classroom interactions. A score between 4.0-5.99 indicates a mid-level and a score between 6.0-7.0 indicates a high level. Providers must meet a CLASS score of 4.0 to offer VPK. If there is a NA in this column that provider does not offer VPK.
School Readiness- The state of Florida requires all SR providers to be assessed using the CLASS tool if their enrollment meets or exceeds 20% SR students, or two children for a Family Childcare Home. A CLASS score between 1.0-3.99 indicates a low level of quality classroom interactions. A score between 4.0-5.99 indicates a mid-level and a score between 6.0-7.0 indicates a high level. A provider must meet a CLASS score of 4.0 to hold a contract with the coalition. If there is a NA in this column that provider is exempt from the class assessment due to low enrollment of SR students, or they do not contract with the Early Learning Coalition.
Star Rating- Those sites with a star rating listed are choosing to go above and beyond to show their commitment to high quality care by participating in Look for the Stars. By participating they have demonstrated dedication continuous improvement. Sites receive a star rating based on their CLASS score, with the opportunity to advance to higher levels with points for instructional support, screening, assessment, inclusion, staff qualifications, and professional development. A 3-star site will have a CLASS score of at least 4.0. A 4-star sight will have a CLASS score of at least a 4.5. And 5-star site will have a class score of 5.5 or higher. If you see an NA in this column that provider is choosing not to participate in Look for the Stars.
Click the ▼ icon or Learn More for more information about a provider, where available.
Provider
Address and Phone
VPK CLASS
Composite Score
SR CLASS
Composite Score
Star Rating
A New Beginning Early Learning Center
Hours are 7:30 am to 5:30 pm Monday – Friday. Providing services for children ages six weeks to twelve years old. FREE Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program is available. A New Beginning has an educational program using the Creative Curriculum. All of our staff is pre screened through local, state and federal background screening.
Summary – Hours are 7:30 am to 5:30 pm Monday – Friday. Providing services for children ages six weeks to twelve years old. FREE Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program is available. A New Beginning has an educational program using the Creative Curriculum. All of our staff is pre screened through local, state and federal background screening.
6.69
VPK CLASS Composite Score – 6.69
5.95
SR CLASS Composite Score – 5.95
Star Rating –
Abacus Preschool
Provider – Abacus Preschool
5.31
VPK CLASS Composite Score – 5.31
5.27
SR CLASS Composite Score – 5.27
NA
Star Rating – NA
Achievement of Global Excellence Academy
Provider – Achievement of Global Excellence Academy
None
SR CLASS Composite Score – None
NA
Star Rating – NA
All About Children Christian Child Care and Learning Center
Provider – All About Children Christian Child Care and Learning Center
NA
VPK CLASS Composite Score – NA
6.08
SR CLASS Composite Score – 6.08
Angels Child Development Center
Provider – Angels Child Development Center
We emphasize having the children involved in many areas including music, art, physical activities, reading, writing, and play time, in order for the child to learn and grow physically, emotionally and intellectually. We are a multicultural school and welcome new children to learn and make friends in a loving environment. Staff is always looking forward to see new faces.
Summary – We emphasize having the children involved in many areas including music, art, physical activities, reading, writing, and play time, in order for the child to learn and grow physically, emotionally and intellectually. We are a multicultural school and welcome new children to learn and make friends in a loving environment. Staff is always looking forward to see new faces.
5.44
VPK CLASS Composite Score – 5.44
5.12
SR CLASS Composite Score – 5.12
NA
Star Rating – NA
Angel’s Friends Children Development
Provider – Angel’s Friends Children Development
We believe our kids learn through play and by having fun, we have daily activities like art, music, reading, science, physical activities, writing and many more. We offer Free VPK, our staff is bilingual. We offer a loving and safe environment for your child.
Summary – We believe our kids learn through play and by having fun, we have daily activities like art, music, reading, science, physical activities, writing and many more. We offer Free VPK, our staff is bilingual. We offer a loving and safe environment for your child.
6.58
VPK CLASS Composite Score – 6.58
6.38
SR CLASS Composite Score – 6.38
Provider – Ascension Lutheran Preschool
Here at Ascension Lutheran Preschool our students receive an education of excellence through hands-on learning experiences. Teachers know that if they provide activities that encourage students to imagine, explore, ask questions and be creative, they will remember what they’ve learned and have fun doing it!
Summary – Here at Ascension Lutheran Preschool our students receive an education of excellence through hands-on learning experiences. Teachers know that if they provide activities that encourage students to imagine, explore, ask questions and be creative, they will remember what they’ve learned and have fun doing it!
6.49
VPK CLASS Composite Score – 6.49
NA
SR CLASS Composite Score – NA
Asprea Family Child Care Home
Provider – Asprea Family Child Care Home
24 hour care. Eleven years experience. All ages before and after school available. Large classroom and outdoor area with lots of indoor and outdoor equipment for both fun and educational learning experiences. Bilingual (English and Spanish) program. All meals and snacks provided. Member of local and state Family Child Care Association.
Summary – 24 hour care. Eleven years experience. All ages before and after school available. Large classroom and outdoor area with lots of indoor and outdoor equipment for both fun and educational learning experiences. Bilingual (English and Spanish) program. All meals and snacks provided. Member of local and state Family Child Care Association.
34241
Call the provider for the address and more information.
(941) 378-1920
Address – 34241
Call the provider for the address and more information.
Phone – (941) 378-1920
NA
VPK CLASS Composite Score – NA
5.75
SR CLASS Composite Score – 5.75
Baby Fox
Provider – Baby Fox
Our high quality early learning program provides children opportunities to develop and explore all domains of developmentally-appropriate practice. Children in our program ARE creating, moving, singing, discussing, observing, reading and playing. At BFA children are NOT expected to sit still and be quiet. They won’t be doing worksheets, workbooks or drill & kill flashcards. Children here will be seen gathered around books, loose parts, engaging materials, tinker tubs and sensory bins. Children can get lost in curiosity and will spend their days surrounded by discovery and wonder as they will be engaged in playful learning. We ARE preparing children for school, but we are NOT a boot camp for Kindergarten.
Summary – Our high quality early learning program provides children opportunities to develop and explore all domains of developmentally-appropriate practice. Children in our program ARE creating, moving, singing, discussing, observing, reading and playing. At BFA children are NOT expected to sit still and be quiet. They won’t be doing worksheets, workbooks or drill & kill flashcards. Children here will be seen gathered around books, loose parts, engaging materials, tinker tubs and sensory bins. Children can get lost in curiosity and will spend their days surrounded by discovery and wonder as they will be engaged in playful learning. We ARE preparing children for school, but we are NOT a boot camp for Kindergarten.
6.28
VPK CLASS Composite Score – 6.28
5.44
SR CLASS Composite Score – 5.44
Baby Fox Academy-Lakewood Ranch
Provider – Baby Fox Academy-Lakewood Ranch
5.99
VPK CLASS Composite Score – 5.99
NA
SR CLASS Composite Score – NA
Provider – Beautiful Blessings ELC
NA
VPK CLASS Composite Score – NA
5.24
SR CLASS Composite Score – 5.24
TBD
Star Rating – TBD
Bess Family Child Care Home
Provider – Bess Family Child Care Home
34234
Call the provider for the address and more information.
(941) 312-5619 / (941) 536-3066
Address – 34234
Call the provider for the address and more information.
Phone – (941) 312-5619 / (941) 536-3066
NA
NA
6.39
SR CLASS Composite Score – 6.39
TBD
Star Rating – TBD
Bizzy Bee 2
Provider – Bizzy Bee 2
Bizzy B2 is a high quality, established, nature inspired, hands-on learning program with both indoor and outdoor activity areas. Classrooms support developmentally appropriate play-based activities not only via the Beyond Centers and Circle Time curriculum, but also following the children’s own interests. We believe children learn best through hands-on exploration. We spend our days learning in a variety of ways – tinkering, planning, creating, building, digging, planting, singing, laughing, dancing, swinging, cycling, running, talking, reading, listening, drawing, painting, writing, meditating, observing, and discovering. We believe social and emotional learning is a priority therefore you will find SEL skills and activities embedded throughout the day. Our daily activities fully encompass the Florida Standards. We are proud to say Bizzy B2 builds long lasting relationships with children and their families. Please call or email for any further information.
Summary – Bizzy B2 is a high quality, established, nature inspired, hands-on learning program with both indoor and outdoor activity areas. Classrooms support developmentally appropriate play-based activities not only via the Beyond Centers and Circle Time curriculum, but also following the children’s own interests. We believe children learn best through hands-on exploration. We spend our days learning in a variety of ways – tinkering, planning, creating, building, digging, planting, singing, laughing, dancing, swinging, cycling, running, talking, reading, listening, drawing, painting, writing, meditating, observing, and discovering. We believe social and emotional learning is a priority therefore you will find SEL skills and activities embedded throughout the day. Our daily activities fully encompass the Florida Standards. We are proud to say Bizzy B2 builds long lasting relationships with children and their families. Please call or email for any further information.
5.94
VPK CLASS Composite Score – 5.94
5.94
SR CLASS Composite Score – 5.94
Bizzy Bee Early Care and Education
Provider – Bizzy Bee Early Care and Education
6.83
VPK CLASS Composite Score – 6.83
6.83
SR CLASS Composite Score – 6.83
Bright Beginnings Preschool
Provider – Bright Beginnings Preschool
Bright Beginnings Preschool brings you a program of exploration and discovery. We offer a loving environment in which your child will take part in many creative and educational experiences on his or her own developmental level. We believe in providing young children emotional security, physical development, intellectual and social stimulation, and proper nutrition in a safe, healthy and happy environment.
Summary – Bright Beginnings Preschool brings you a program of exploration and discovery. We offer a loving environment in which your child will take part in many creative and educational experiences on his or her own developmental level. We believe in providing young children emotional security, physical development, intellectual and social stimulation, and proper nutrition in a safe, healthy and happy environment.
6.69
VPK CLASS Composite Score – 6.69
4.98
SR CLASS Composite Score – 4.98
Bright Start Child Development Center
Provider – Bright Start Child Development Center
Committed to providing a caring and nurturing experience for all children, we see each child as an individual with varying needs, interests and abilities. Teachers offer kindness, guidance, and support. Our philosophy is to provide an UNHURRIED atmosphere that encourages social, emotional, spiritual, physical and intellectual growth and development.
Summary – Committed to providing a caring and nurturing experience for all children, we see each child as an individual with varying needs, interests and abilities. Teachers offer kindness, guidance, and support. Our philosophy is to provide an UNHURRIED atmosphere that encourages social, emotional, spiritual, physical and intellectual growth and development.
6.19
VPK CLASS Composite Score – 6.19
5.03
SR CLASS Composite Score – 5.03
Provider – Capoeira Volta Ao Mundo Inc Capokids
6.33
VPK CLASS Composite Score – 6.33
NA
SR CLASS Composite Score – NA
NA
Star Rating – NA
5.83
VPK CLASS Composite Score – 5.83
NA
SR CLASS Composite Score – NA
NA
Star Rating – NA
Carter Family Child Care Home
Provider – Carter Family Child Care Home
34234
Call the provider for the address and more information.
(941) 365-1789
Address – 34234
Call the provider for the address and more information.
Phone – (941) 365-1789
N/A
VPK CLASS Composite Score – N/A
6.11
SR CLASS Composite Score – 6.11
TBD
Star Rating – TBD
Chabad Preschool
Provider – Chabad Preschool
Serving children ages 2.5 -5 in a multi-age classroom, using a modified Montessori approach, we aim to nurture each child’s learning priorities as we develop cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills. In our creative and learn-through-play environment, there is a focus on kindness, healthy eating, and Jewish themes.
Summary – Serving children ages 2.5 -5 in a multi-age classroom, using a modified Montessori approach, we aim to nurture each child’s learning priorities as we develop cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills. In our creative and learn-through-play environment, there is a focus on kindness, healthy eating, and Jewish themes.
7700 Beneva Road, Sarasota, FL 34238
(941) 925-0770
Sara Steinmetz, Preschool Director
sara@chabadofsarasota.com
sarasotachabad.com/preschool
Address – 7700 Beneva Road, Sarasota, FL 34238
Phone – (941) 925-0770
Sara Steinmetz, Preschool Director
Email – sara@chabadofsarasota.com
Website – sarasotachabad.com/preschool
NA
VPK CLASS Composite Score – NA
6.61
SR CLASS Composite Score – 6.61
TBD
Star Rating – TBD
NA
Star Rating – NA
Provider – Children First at Helen Payne Annex MLK
Children First @ Helen R. Payne Center, a Head Start Program of Excellence serves children age pre-natal through five years and their families in comprehensive, high quality, inclusive, full day, Head Start, Early Head Start and fee-based early education programs with degreed teachers and low ratios.
Summary – Children First @ Helen R. Payne Center, a Head Start Program of Excellence serves children age pre-natal through five years and their families in comprehensive, high quality, inclusive, full day, Head Start, Early Head Start and fee-based early education programs with degreed teachers and low ratios.
NA
VPK CLASS Composite Score – NA
NA
SR CLASS Composite Score – NA
NA
VPK CLASS Composite Score – NA
NA
SR CLASS Composite Score – NA
Provider – Children First, Inc.
The mission of Children First is to strengthen children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health and well-being. Children First is proud to offer a wide range of programs designed to meet the individual needs of each child and family.
Summary – The mission of Children First is to strengthen children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health and well-being. Children First is proud to offer a wide range of programs designed to meet the individual needs of each child and family.
NA
VPK CLASS Composite Score – NA
NA
SR CLASS Composite Score – NA