Merit Academy
Data last updated · May 2026
Quality Indicators
See Methodology →- Overall QualityCombines daily care quality (interactions, learning, environment) with structural features like staff-to-child ratios and teacher qualifications.2 / 5
- Process QualityThe quality of daily care — caregiver-child interactions, learning activities, and the emotional climate. Drawn from the state QRIS rating, accreditations, and Head Start CLASS observations.2 / 5
- Structural QualityMeasurable features like staff-to-child ratios, group sizes, license status, and teacher qualifications. Provider-level data when available; otherwise the state regulatory baseline.3 / 5
Why this rating
This daycare earned 2 out of 5 stars overall. Process quality reflects a Colorado Shines rating of Level 1. Structural quality reflects Colorado's licensing baseline. Colorado caps infant ratios at 1:5, toddler ratios at 1:5, and preschool ratios at 1:12. Lead teachers must hold a High School Diploma. Teachers must complete 15 hours of annual training.
Quality Recognitions & Accreditations
- State Quality Rating
- Colorado Shines Level 1 (Max 5) Learn more →
- Accreditations
- National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)Not Accredited
- National Accreditation Commission (NAC)Not Accredited
- National Early Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA)Not Accredited
- National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC)Not Accredited
Facility Info
- Facility type
- Preschool
- Age groups served
- Preschool
- Licensed capacity
- 30
- Teacher-child ratios & group sizesState Minimum Displayed
Age Max ratio Max group Preschool 1:12 24
Teacher Credentials
- Lead teacher credentialState Minimum Displayed
- High School Diploma
Inspection History
Across 2 inspections since 2024, the issues cited most often were Emergency Preparedness & Drills (1) and Staff Qualifications & Background Checks (1). Of 2 total findings, 1 was critical.
See All 2 Inspection Visits
May 5, 20251 Finding1 Important
- Emergency Drills, Lockdown and Active Shooter on Premises Drills Must Be Held at Least Quarterly but Often Enough So That All Occupants Are Familiar with the Drill Procedure And…2.138.A
The program did not have a record of drills that have been completed for licensing to review.
✓ Corrected at visit
Aug 19, 20241 Finding1 Critical
- Criminal Background Check Requests Must Be Successfully Completed Prior to an Individual Caring for Children or Allowing the Individual Unsupervised Access to Children in Child…2.121.D.4.a
A CBI and FBI clearance letter are missing for Laina C., Additionally, Kristi R., Emma L., and Bella C., are all missing CBI clearance letters.