OPINION
Voices from the Idaho EdNews Community

Four honored for their dedication to kids

Do you know an amazing provider that excels in early child care, a passionate and innovative children’s advocate, or a remarkable business or non-profit leader with a strong commitment to quality child care? Providing a safe and nurturing early learning experience for our youngest children is one of the most important and challenging jobs we have as parents and community members. Quality early learning experiences provide children with opportunities to develop skills that prepare them for school and life. Every day, Idahoans are sticking their necks out to provide and advocate for quality early care and education for all children in Idaho. To honor these children’s champions, Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children proudly organizes the annual event, “Stick Your Neck Out for Idaho’s Children” Awards.

The “Stick Your Neck Out for Idaho’s Children” Awards are presented to individuals who have demonstrated a strong commitment and contributed a positive impact in quality early care and education throughout Idaho. Through their accomplishments, honorees serve as role models for those throughout our communities who value quality in early care and education. On August 8th at Zoo Boise, Idaho AEYC honored four outstanding individuals who have shown a dedication to Idaho’s children:

  • Diane Kofoed honored for Excellence in Early Childcare
  • Lori Fascilla honored for Visionary and Innovative Leadership
  • Janet Orndorff honored for Community Involvement (In remembrance)
  • Mary Olsen honored for Professional Engagement

Congratulations to this year’s deserving award winners for their continued dedication to early education and improving the lives and futures of Idaho’s children!

The Stick Your Neck Out for Idaho’s Children Event was a wonderful success. Idaho AEYC appreciates the support in our efforts to advance Idaho’s early learning profession and continue to raise the standards of quality for early care and education in Idaho.  Stay tuned for open nominations for next year’s awards and event.

honorees

Beth Oppenheimer

Beth Oppenheimer

Beth Oppenheimer, a 2023 IBR Power List: Most Influential awardee and a 2022 IBR Women of the Year awardee, has been the Executive Director of the Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children (Idaho AEYC) since 2010. She has spent many years advocating for the needs of our children and families and is committed to advancing opportunities for all Idaho families.

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