YouthPower365’s Magic Bus mobile preschool achieves level 4 Colorado Shines rating
Free preschool on wheels among the highest-rated early childhood education providers in the Eagle River Valley
YouthPower365/Courtesy photo
The Vail Valley Foundation’s YouthPower365 Magic Bus mobile preschool program has achieved a Level 4 rating from Colorado Shines, the state’s official quality rating system for early care and learning programs. This score — rated on a scale of one to five — places the innovative, free mobile preschool program on wheels among the highest-rated early childhood education providers in the Eagle River Valley.
The Magic Bus mobile preschool program provides free early childhood education to three- to five-year-olds throughout the Eagle River Valley, from Dotsero to Avon. Operating four days per week, the program offers eight hours of weekly instruction in a bilingual classroom setting, focusing on social-emotional development, language acquisition, literacy and mathematical skills. The curriculum emphasizes play-based learning and discovery while preparing children for successful school entry.
“This achievement showcases the dedication and exceptional quality of the Magic Bus educators, staff, and supporters,” said Amy Chato, director of family and early learning for YouthPower365. “To earn this top-tier rating without a traditional physical facility or playground is a true testament to the program’s relationship-based approach and innovative thinking to deliver the highest-caliber early childhood experiences to our community’s families.”
The Colorado Shines rating system, administered by the Colorado Department of Human Services Office of Early Childhood, evaluates programs across crucial areas including children’s health and safety, staff training and effectiveness, learning environment quality, parent partnership and organizational leadership. This achievement is particularly noteworthy for Magic Bus, as it earned this rating without a permanent physical location or playground facilities, demonstrating the program’s exceptional quality in all other evaluated areas.
“Our ability to bring free high-quality preschool education directly to neighborhoods removes barriers and makes early education accessible to all families, preparing children for a lifetime of learning,” said Mike Imhof, president of the Vail Valley Foundation.
Support Local Journalism
For more information visit YouthPower365.org.
