GLASGOW, Ky. — Every public preschool program serving Glasgow and Barren County schools has earned Kentucky’s highest quality designation for early childhood education.

Barren County Schools announced this week that all district preschool sites received a 5-Star rating through the Kentucky Department of Education’s Kentucky All STARS program.

Glasgow Independent Schools also announced that Glasgow Preschool Academy earned a 5-Star rating, the highest distinction available through the state’s quality rating and improvement system.

Kentucky All STARS evaluates state-funded preschool programs on classroom instruction, staff qualifications and professional development, leadership, learning environments, family engagement and continuous quality improvement.

A 5-Star rating signifies that a preschool program has met the highest standards established by the Kentucky Department of Education.

“This accomplishment is a testament to the incredible dedication of our preschool staff,” said Christa Middleton, director of special programs for Barren County Schools. “Our teachers, instructional assistants, therapists, administrators, and support staff work tirelessly each day to provide engaging, high-quality learning experiences for our youngest students. We are incredibly proud of their commitment to excellence.”

Barren County Schools said each of its preschool sites underwent a comprehensive evaluation during the 2025-26 school year as part of the Kentucky All STARS process.

Glasgow Preschool Academy also earned the 5-Star designation after demonstrating excellence in areas including teaching and learning, family engagement, leadership, health and safety, and continuous quality improvement.

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication, passion, and professionalism of our preschool staff,” said Chad Muhlenkamp, superintendent of Glasgow Independent Schools. “Our educators work tirelessly to create nurturing, engaging, and high-quality learning experiences that prepare every child for success in preschool and beyond. We are incredibly proud of their efforts and this well-deserved accomplishment.”

Belinda West, director of special education for Glasgow Independent Schools, said the recognition reflects the district's commitment to providing young children with a strong educational foundation.

“Our preschool team believes that every child deserves the very best start to their educational journey,” West said. “This recognition reflects the collaborative work of our teachers, support staff, families, and district leadership, all of whom share a commitment to helping our youngest Scotties learn, grow, and thrive.”

Both districts said the recognition reflects their continued investment in high-quality early childhood education and their efforts to prepare children for success before they enter kindergarten.