The Nest Schools, Highlands Ranch
405 DAD CLARK DRIVE, HIGHLANDS RANCH, CO 80126Childery Rating: 3/5
Data last updated ·
Quality Indicators
See Methodology →- Overall QualityCombines daily care quality (interactions, learning, environment) with structural features like staff-to-child ratios and teacher qualifications.3 / 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.3 / 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.4 / 5
Why this rating
This daycare earned 3 out of 5 stars overall. Process quality reflects a Colorado Shines rating of Level 2 (out of 5). 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 2 (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
- Child Care Center
- Age groups served
- Infants, Toddlers
- Licensed capacity
- 252
- Teacher-child ratios & group sizesState Minimum Displayed
Age Max ratio Max group Infants 1:5 10 Toddlers 1:5 10
Teacher Credentials
- Lead teacher credentialState Minimum Displayed
- High School Diploma
Inspection History
Across 6 inspections since 2024, the issues cited most often were Building & Premises Safety (1), Hazardous Materials Handling (1), and Food Safety & Allergic Reactions (1). None of the 6 findings were critical.
See All 6 Inspection Visits
May 19, 20261 Finding1 Important
- Indoor and Outdoor Equipment, Materials, and Furnishings Must Be Sturdy, Safe, and Free of Hazards.2.230.B
At the time of inspection, it was observed that there is standing water in the sink of the Cardinals C classroom due to a known clogged drain causing a potential hazard to children.
✓ Corrected at visit
Oct 16, 20251 Finding1 Important
- Items Labeled “Keep Out of Reach of Children” Must Be Inaccessible to Children.2.229.C
In the Cardinals A classroom, wipes behind an unlocked diaper changing table accessible to children. In the Cardinals B classroom observed sunscreen on a low shelf accessible to children.
✓ Corrected at visit
Sep 19, 20251 Finding1 Important
- All Staff at the Center Must Demonstrate Knowledgeable Decision-making, Judgment, and Concern for the Proper Care and Well-being of Children.2.212.A
Identifed through staff statement CH1 was given food that are known to cause an allergic reaction or a health hazard.
✓ Corrected at visit
Jun 25, 20251 Finding1 Important
- All Staff Must Have at Least One (1) Hour of Child Development Training Within Ninety (90) Days of Employment. This Training Must Include the Major Domains (Cognitive, Social,…2.213.L
Reviewed 24 staff files and observed Karina to be missing a current child development training.
Jun 3, 20251 Finding1 Important
- All Staff at the Center Must Demonstrate Knowledgeable Decision-making, Judgment, and Concern for the Proper Care and Well-being of Children.2.212.A
Identified through 4 staff statements, SM1 did poke holes in bottle nipples to easy the flow of bottle.
Jul 26, 20241 Finding1 Important
- Prior to the Original License Being Issued, Following the Renovation of the Facility That Would Affect the Licensing of the Facility and at Least Every Two (2) Years Thereafter,…2.122.A
The facility missing documentation of a current approving health inspection completed following building renovations.
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