• All Critchlow Adkins Sites Earn Highest State Rating—and Are Still Reaching Higher

All Critchlow Adkins Sites Earn Highest State Rating—and Are Still Reaching Higher
At Critchlow Adkins Children’s Centers, a commitment to excellence is evident every day—in the care children receive and in the dedication of the staff who support local families.
With five sites across Talbot County, Critchlow Adkins provides preschool, before- and after-school care, and summer programs for children ages 2 through 12. All five locations are Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) Accredited and have earned EXCELS (Excellence Counts in Early Learning and School Age Care) Check Level 5 ratings. The highest recognition available for childcare providers in Maryland.
These accomplishments are especially meaningful because they are voluntary. To earn them, providers must exceed state licensing requirements and demonstrate a sustained commitment to program improvement and high-quality practices.
Even with these top distinctions, Critchlow Adkins continues to raise the bar.
Across all five sites, staff are focused on improving care for children and families in thoughtful and meaningful ways. This dedication is reflected in their pursuit of additional EXCELS badges, which recognize excellence in areas such as Health and Wellness, Family Engagement, Eco-Friendly Practices, partnerships with Judy Center Early Learning Hubs, Quality Business Practices, and support for Military Families.
“We are so proud of our staff for taking this on,” says Executive Director Cristy Morrell. “Maintaining a Level 5 rating is a significant achievement, and reflects the care, energy, and intention our teachers bring each day to the children and families we serve.”
At Critchlow Adkins, this commitment means children aren’t just cared for, they are supported, challenged, and given the foundation they need to succeed.