“The Early Care and Education Excellence Awards are a way for us to recognize the dedicated professionals who play a crucial role in shaping the future of our youngest residents,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “These educators work tirelessly to provide high-quality early care and education, ensuring our children have the best possible start in life. I encourage everyone to participate in this opportunity to celebrate their hard work by submitting nominations. It is important to highlight these professionals' incredible impact on our community.”
The County established the Early Care and Education Excellence Awards in partnership with early care and education associations to recognize and honor dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to ensure that the community’s youngest children (birth to age 5) receive the highest quality early care and education. A panel of child care organization representatives will make award selections. Awardees will be honored at the Montgomery County Early Care and Education Fall Conference on Oct. 18.
There are five nomination categories:
- Infant and Toddler Educator Award. Honors a center-based or family child care teacher or assistant teacher who cares for children from birth to age 3.
- Preschool Educator Award. Honors a center-based or family child care preschool teacher or assistant teacher who cares for children ages 3-5.
- Before and After School Educator Award. Honors a center-based or family child care teacher or assistant teacher who cares for children before and after the school day.
- Educator Support Professional Award. Honors a center-based or family child care teacher’s aide or supportive professional who cares for children birth to age 5.
- Innovative Leadership Award. Honors an innovative leader or organization in the early care and education system. This leader/organization works to champion inclusive, equitable and quality policies and practices in early care and education and considers the needs of the child, family and provider in their scope of leadership.
In October 2023, the County’s CCSS presented the first Early Care and Education Excellence Awards to eight selected individuals from more than 250 nominations.
Visit the DHHS CCSS website for more information. The Montgomery County Early Care and Education Initiative Action Plan for Fiscal Years 2024 and 2025 is available here.
