Kidzone Preschool & Childcare Center, located in the Main Building on Lake Michigan College’s Benton Harbor Campus, received top recognition from the state of Michigan’s Office of Great Start to Quality.
Funded by the Michigan Department of Education, Great Start to Quality sets standards and evaluates early care and education programs. During its latest assessment, Kidzone was awarded the “Demonstrating Quality” certificate, which is Great Start’s highest quality level.
“We work so hard, so to have someone come in and say, ‘Hey, you’re doing good,’ is just the most satisfying thing,” said Karla Pepple, Owner and Director of Kidzone Preschool & Childcare Center. “I was so excited when we received notification of this achievement. This recognition is truly a reflection of our committed staff and their ongoing efforts to achieve excellence in their classrooms.”
Great Start to Quality rates standards in five categories – Inclusive Practices, Professional Development, Staff Qualifications, Family and Community Partnerships, and Curriculum, Instruction, and Learning Environment. The current assessment is valid through Nov. 26, 2025.
“They go through everything in your classroom and materials to make sure everything is meeting quality standards,” Pepple said. “We are always trying to meet the highest standard. Since 2016, we have received 4-star ratings, but this is the first time that we have received a 5-star rating. I don’t think anyone else in the area has this rating.”
Founded in 2000, Kidzone offers preschool and childcare services for children ages six weeks through 10 years old, with programs for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children. While the center is open to the public, it primarily serves LMC students who need childcare to attend classes.
“Students are our priority,” Pepple said. “It can be crucial for students who are parents. We have had students tell us that they could not go to college if we were not here. We hear a lot of those stories.”
Kidzone, which also has a branch on the South Haven Campus, is used by LMC faculty, staff, and community members.
“There are quite a few faculty and staff members who bring their kids here, too, but many people in the community don’t know we are here,” Pepple said. “Many daycares closed during COVID, so I know it is really hard to find care right now. We want to let people know we are here.”
Kidzone will hold a Back-to-School Open House from 5-7 p.m. Thursday at Benton Harbor and South Haven Campuses. Interested parties can meet teachers, tour classrooms, and win door prizes.
“We have a blast here,” Pepple said. “We don’t have kids screaming at the door here. If we do, it is because they don’t want to leave.”
To learn more about Kidzone, visit kidzoneonline.com or call the Benton Harbor center at 269-927-6293 or the South Haven center at 269-637-7501. To learn more about Great Start to Quality, visit greatstarttoquality.org.
