Step With Purpose LLC in Blackwood Awarded a 4‑Star Rating from Grow NJ Kids

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Blackwood, NJ — Step With Purpose LLC has received a 4‑star rating from Grow NJ Kids, the state-sponsored initiative to raise the quality of child care and early learning across New Jersey. Grow NJ Kids star ratings help families recognize high-quality programs and are one of several factors to consider when finding the right program for a child’s needs.

“This recognition reflects our team’s unwavering commitment to joyful, high‑quality, and inclusive early learning where every child belongs and thrives,” said Mrs. Shannan Ramsay, Director of Step With Purpose. “We partner with families to build strong foundations for school readiness through purposeful play, nurturing relationships, and a safe, engaging environment.”

Ratings are based on a comprehensive assessment of documentation, including the program’s curriculum and teacher/staff professional development records. In addition, trained raters review the classroom environment with in‑person observations and other factors.

“To create a standard way to look at child care and early learning, Grow NJ Kids provides families with an objective rating system. Based on the findings of a preliminary assessment that the child care and early learning program does on itself, trained professionals work with the program staff to address areas needing improvement. Then, a trained rater, using a comprehensive, research‑based tool, formally assesses the program,” said Andrea Breitwieser, Assistant Director of the NJ Division of Family Development, Office of Child Care, which oversees the Grow NJ Kids program. “It also gives parents and families the tools needed to find programs that will make the most of their kids’ early learning experiences.”

“Step With Purpose should be proud of their rating, as rated programs provide a higher quality of care and are implementing standards significantly above New Jersey’s basic licensing requirements,” Breitwieser said.

The rating advances Step With Purpose’s mission to provide family‑centered, inclusive, and community‑rooted early education that grows confident learners and supports working families. SWP currently utilizes Creative Curriculum and FunShine Express to deliver developmentally appropriate, play‑based learning experiences. The SWP community is actively engaged with local partners to expand enrichment and support services for families.

About Step With Purpose

Founded in Brooklyn and serving families for nearly two decades, Step With Purpose operates a center‑based preschool in Blackwood, New Jersey, alongside a home‑based group family daycare in Brooklyn, New York. SWP is dedicated to providing safe, nurturing care, strong family partnerships, and purposeful learning that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond.

For more information about Step With Purpose, visit www.stepwithpurposellc.com. To find a participating Grow NJ Kids program near you, visit www.GrowNJKids.gov.