Celebrating Illinois Blue Ribbon Affiliates
We are delighted to recognize the Illinois Parents as Teachers affiliates who achieved Blue Ribbon status this year. This honor represents the highest level of quality awarded by the Parents as Teachers National Center and reflects the remarkable dedication these programs bring to families across our state.
Earning Blue Ribbon recognition is no small accomplishment. It reflects years of commitment to excellence, strong implementation of the PAT model, and a deep belief in the power of early childhood support. Our 2025 recipients exemplify what it means to serve families with care, integrity, and intention.
Illinois 2024/2025 Blue Ribbon Recipients
We proudly congratulate the following affiliates for earning this distinguished recognition:
- Springfield Public Schools #186/Parents as Teachers
- Dupage County Regl. Office of Educ./Parents As Teachers
- Metropolitan Family Services/Parents as Partners
- Naperville Community Unit School District #203/Ann Reid Early Childhood Center
- Flora Community Unit Schools Dist. #35/Flora Elementary School/PAT
- The Children’s Center of Cicero/Berwyn
- Madison County Unit School District #12/ Parents as Teachers
- Marillac Social Center PAT/Marillac Social Center
- Schaumburg School District 54
- Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago/Partnering with Parents
- Family Focus Belmont-Cragin Nuestra Familia
- Round Lake Area Schools Community Unit District 116
Pending appeals may result in minor updates to this list.
These programs set a high standard for home visiting in Illinois. Their leadership strengthens local communities and elevates the statewide Parents as Teachers network.
A Message from the PAT Illinois State Leader
The Illinois PAT State Office proudly congratulates the programs listed for successfully completing Parents as Teachers National’s rigorous Quality Endorsement and Improvement Process (QEIP) and earning Blue Ribbon status. The QEIP is a comprehensive, four-step review cycle completed every five years, requiring affiliates to demonstrate adherence to Essential Requirements and Quality Standards through data submission, an in-depth self-study, and corroborating interviews and file reviews.
Achieving this designation is a significant accomplishment and reflects each program’s commitment to delivering high-quality home visiting services that support families and children in their communities. Congratulations to all honorees on this outstanding achievement!
— Ariel Chaidez, PAT Illinois State Leader
What This Achievement Represents
Blue Ribbon designation signifies the highest level of program quality within the PAT model. Affiliates who receive this honor demonstrate:
- Strong fidelity to the core components of the evidence-based model
- High-quality and family-centered home visiting practices
- Skilled and reflective staff supported by effective supervision
- A commitment to using data to guide decision-making
- Meaningful outcomes for young children and their caregivers
Illinois’ honorees have shown exceptional dedication in each of these areas, ensuring families receive the best possible support.
Why This Matters for Illinois
Each Blue Ribbon program contributes to a stronger statewide home visiting system. Their work enhances family well-being, builds community partnerships, and reinforces Illinois’ reputation as a leader in early childhood services. Their achievements inspire other affiliates and bring visibility to the power of high-quality, evidence-based home visiting.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate this year’s Blue Ribbon honorees, we also acknowledge the Illinois affiliates recognized in previous cycles, whose ongoing commitment continues to strengthen the statewide network. Their sustained efforts help create the strong foundation from which this year’s honorees shine.
Together, Blue Ribbon affiliates—past and present—model excellence in action and contribute to a statewide culture of learning, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
The PAT Illinois State Office remains committed to supporting all programs as they continue building strong partnerships, elevating quality practices, and making a lasting impact in their communities.
Congratulations again to our Blue Ribbon honorees!
