Program leaders and child-care supervisors employed by child day centers may possess an approved credential. For purposes of this section: “Approved credential” means a competency-based credential awarded to individuals who work with children ages five and under in either a teaching, supervisory, or administrative capacity and that is specifically awarded or administered by the National Association for the Education of Young Children; the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs; the Association of Christian Schools International; the American Association of Christian Schools; the National Early Childhood Program Accreditation; the National Accreditation Council for Early Childhood Professional Personnel and Programs; the International Academy for Private Education; the American Montessori Society; the International Accreditation and Certification of Childhood Educators, Programs, and Trainers; the National Accreditation Commission; the Virginia Community College System, or another institution of higher education; or its equivalent as determined by the Department. “Program leader” or “child-care supervisor” means an individual designated to be responsible for the direct supervision of children and for the implementation of the activities and services for a group of children in a licensed child day center.