August 20, 2026

The Carol L. Danforth Early Childhood Lab School, part of the Early Childhood Education program at Forsyth Tech, has been awarded a 5-Star Rated License under North Carolina’s new Pathways to the Stars Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS). To earn this prestigious rating, the program successfully met rigorous quality standards across several areas, including the education and qualifications of staff, continuous quality improvement, family and community engagement, use of an approved curriculum, child observation and assessment, and coaching and professional training for staff.

Forsyth Tech’s Early Childhood Lab School

The program also exceeded several additional quality indicators, including maintaining low staff turnover and employing educators who are certified trainers through the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). These accomplishments reflect the dedication, professionalism and passion of the lab school’s outstanding team and its continued commitment to providing exceptional early childhood education and care.

This achievement is a testament to the hard work of faculty and staff, the support of Forsyth Technical Community College, and the strong partnerships with families and community. The lab school is grateful for the trust and collaboration of families and the community as it continues its mission of providing a high-quality, developmentally appropriate learning environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive.

Thank you for celebrating this exciting milestone. Interested in the Early Childhood Lab School? Learn more here!