The Phoebe Family Tree Child Development Center has been awarded a three-star rating through Georgia's Quality Rated system. Family Tree earned the highest rating available which is valid for three years.

Quality Rated is Georgia's quality rating and improvement system for childcare through Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). It recognizes programs that go beyond state minimum requirements to provide strong learning environments, qualified teachers, and meaningful family engagement.

"We are incredibly proud of this achievement. Our team works hard every day to give children a safe, nurturing place to learn and grow. This impressive three-star rating is a reflection of that dedication," said Shakita McKinney, Family Tree Child Development Center Director.

Family Tree offers convenient, high-quality care and early childhood education for infants, toddlers, and pre-school-age children of Phoebe employees, as well as after school programs for school-age students. The facility’s pre-k program is also open to families throughout the community, not just Phoebe employees.

"Reliable, quality childcare matters to our employees and to families across southwest Georgia. Family Tree is a great benefit for our employees, but it also positively impacts our entire community. Research proves that high-quality pre-K programs provide short-term and long-term cognitive, social and economic benefits for children and families and the communities where they live. Family Tree’s three-star rating shows the high standard of care these children receive," said Anthony Lewis, Phoebe Chief Human Resources Officer.

Phoebe is currently planning a Family Tree expansion to serve more children on its main campus in Albany and will build a new Family Tree Child Development Center at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus. No timeline on those projects has been finalized, and Phoebe promises the expansions will further Family Tree's commitment to maintaining a safe, nurturing, and quality learning environment for children.