2025 Early Childhood Educator Awards

Thank you for attending this year's Early Childhood Educator Awards!

Your support honors the adults who make the biggest impact on children’s lives.

You can still be a part of the event by joining the Cheer Chain!

For just $10, you can give a shoutout to an incredible early childhood educator or parent. Each donation creates a colorful paper figure that becomes part of a beautiful chain display — a visual reminder that we’re all connected in supporting early education.

Your $10 donation:

  • Honors an educator or parent who makes a difference
  • Supports Action for Children’s vital work
  • Creates a lasting tribute in our ceremony display
  • Shows we’re stronger when we stand together for kids
Donate to Action for Children

Get to know This Year's ECE Award Winners!

Sherri Congrove, Hero Award Winner
Lyssa Guy, Future Leader Award Winner
Karah Deible, Rosa Hightower Excellence in Teaching Award Winner
Mikalah Day, Family Child Care of the Year Award Winner
Meriem Bensmail, Outstanding Parent Advocate Award Winner
D'Audrey Holloway, Legacy Award Winner

Thank you to the sponsors of Action for Children’s 2025 Early Childhood Educator Awards!

Respect, Recognition, and Reward for Child Care Professionals

Action for Children believes that elevating educators encompasses respect, recognition, and reward. Winners of our Early Childhood Educator Awards will receive $1,000 for the individual educator, plus $1,500 for their child care program.

Hero Award

The Hero Award recognizes child care providers and staff members of all types who go above and beyond in their service of children and families, despite the many challenges they face.
Future Leader Award

Our Future Leader Award recognizes early learning professionals who are new to the field, are excelling at their profession, and are committed to creating a bright, successful future for children.
Rosa Hightower Excellence in Teaching Award

The Rosa Hightower Excellence in Teaching Award is presented to educators who have consistently demonstrated excellence in providing innovative, responsive, child-driven care and education.
Family Child Care of the Year Award

The Family Child Care of the Year Award honors these critical yet often unseen educators who support children, families, and the child care workforce every day.
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