MOSCA-HOOPER – Sangre de Cristo Preschool announced recently that it has been rated by Colorado Shines, the state's quality rating and improvement system for early care and learning programs.  

Sangre de Cristo Preschool received a Level 5 rating, a testament to its commitment to providing a high-quality learning environment that supports the development of Mosca and Hooper's children. This Colorado Shines rating is one way that Sangre de Cristo demonstrates its quality and dedication to continually improving the services it offers.   

Jenene Holcomb is the director, teacher, and UPK coordinator for the Sangre de Cristo School District. She holds two teaching licenses, one in elementary education and a Level VI in early childhood education. She also has a master’s in elementary counseling. Holcomb has taught for 27 years, the last 16 of them in preschool at Sangre de Cristo. 

"I am excited to have received a Level 5 rating with Colorado Shines," says Holcomb. "It took hard work, commitment, and dedication to achieve it! I'd like to thank my coaches from the San Luis Valley Early Childhood council, Monique Bosch and Rita Archuleta. I would also like to thank our administration and staff for their support. Sangre de Cristo was also designated as a school of distinction in our state this fall, so it's wonderful to have our preschool program also recognized with the highest rating from the Colorado Department of Early Education!" 

Holcomb concluded by saying, "It's my joy to teach young children and build connections with my student's families. Since I am often their first introduction to our school system, I take the responsibility seriously. I foster the best relationships I can for all involved. My classroom is a safe, warm, caring environment to learn and grow – for both students and their families!" 

Growing research shows that the early years are essential to child development. In fact, neuroscientists have shown that the first five years – particularly the first three – have the greatest potential for setting a strong foundation for lifelong learning and health. During that time, children's brains developed at rapid rates, with 1 million new neural connections being formed every second. This makes it important for families to connect with quality childcare programs and preschools like Sangre de Cristo that support child development. 

Colorado Shines is a free service offered through the Colorado Department of Human Services Office of Early Childhood. It rates Colorado's early care and learning programs, connects families with quality programs, and helps early care and learning programs improve their quality.   

The program looks at how early learning programs: 

• Support children's health and safety.
• Ensure their early childhood professionals are well-trained and effective.
• Provide a supportive learning environment that teaches children new skills.
• Help parents become partners in their child's learning.
• Demonstrate strong leadership and business practices.

The easy-to-use Colorado Shines website allows families to find quality childcare and preschool programs such as Sangre de Cristo Preschool. Early learning program information available on the site includes location, hours, licensing information and, most importantly, the Colorado Shines quality rating. To learn more, visit ColoradoShines.com or ColoradoShines.com/es (in Spanish). 

There are currently half-day slots available for preschool at Sangre de Cristo. Sangre de Cristo will hold a preschool and kindergarten enrollment day on Thursday, May 1, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Call 719-378-2321, for more information or to enroll your child.