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Celebrating JACOLA’s Accreditation
JACOLA, a childcare center in Jackson County, has recently earned both Gold Seal and Apple accreditation, a significant achievement that sets them apart as a leader in early childhood education. This accomplishment is the result of nearly two years of meticulous planning and preparation, beginning with the center’s goal of attaining Gold Seal status even before they opened their doors.
From the outset, JACOLA focused on meeting and exceeding both the Department of Children and Families (DCF) and Gold Seal requirements. By aiming for Gold Seal, which mandates more rigorous standards, JACOLA ensured they were providing an exceptional level of care and education.
The process of accreditation was a time-consuming one, with one of the biggest challenges being the development and continual updating of policies and procedures. JACOLA took extra steps to document their practices in detail, such as noting each classroom’s schedule, staff-to-child ratios, and other critical variables. The effort was worth it. The on-site visit from their accreditation firm, Florida Association of Child Care Management (FACCM), helped to solidify their standing as a top-tier center.
For families, these accreditations highlight the exceptional level of care and education JACOLA provides. Not only does it demonstrate their high standards, but it also reassures parents that their children are receiving a high-quality early education from a dedicated, well-trained staff. JACOLA is currently the only childcare center in Jackson County with these prestigious certifications, making them a standout in the community.
The heart of JACOLA’s success lies in its people. The center places a high priority on staff retention, offering competitive benefits, training, and support to ensure a low turnover rate. Both co-founders, Georgeann Adkison and Amanda Mullins-Eagle (pictured above), believe that keeping staff happy and well-trained is essential for providing quality care. Their motto, “We invest in you, you invest in us,” underscores their commitment to professional development, with many staff members receiving their CDA certifications through JACOLA’s support, strengthening the overall local early education community.
In addition to internal development, JACOLA fosters strong ties with the community. Georgeann and Amanda are active in local organizations, and the center hosts events to encourage parental involvement. They also use technology, including cameras and a parent communication app, to build trust and provide transparency. Through this approach, parents can rest assured knowing their children are in safe hands.
Looking ahead, JACOLA plans to expand into Bay County and continue their commitment to improving early childhood education. They advise other childcare providers to research accreditation options thoroughly and to take the process one step at a time. As Amanda says, “It’s like eating an elephant—just one bite at a time.”
JACOLA’s success is a testament to their dedication to excellence, community involvement, and a passion for providing the best possible care for children.