Lake County Recognizes 2014 Early Childhood Educator of the Year Award Recipients

The Lake County Child Care Planning Council held its annual Early Childhood Educator of the Year Award Dinner Friday, May 09, at Pine Crest Farms Event Center on Cobb Mountain, offering recognition and award packages to 13 exceptional early childhood educators and team members.  Over 200 people attended and many Lake County organizations, businesses and individuals offered significant support to make this event possible.  Lake County Department of Social Services;  North Coast Opportunities, Rural Communities Child Care; Lake County Office of Education, Child Development Division; Mendo Lake Credit Union; First 5 Lake, Yuba College and Lakeshore Learning were significant supporters, along with The Beat Zumba Studio.  The Kelseyville Rotary Club provided bar services as well.  "It is encouraging to see our community's organizations and leaders unite in recognition of the valuable contribution early childhood educators make throughout Lake County," says Shelly Mascari, Director of the Lake County Child Care Planning Council.

Approximately 95 nominations were received for Lake County providers in recognition of commitment to excellence by their peers, community members and the families they serve.  Winners were selected based on a detailed interview and evaluation process that took into consideration education, commitment to their profession, answers to specific interview questions, and effectiveness in their role as educators.

Early childhood educators contribute significantly to our communities.  Quality early childhood education dramatically impacts high school graduation rates, keeps our communities working, and helps Lake County develop productive, effective, happy citizens of the future.  According to Shelly Mascari, "Many of these educators have dedicated decades to their profession, in the face of dramatic budget cuts and statewide funding priorities that work in opposition to consistent, quality care.  Their education, in many cases, equals that of the K-12 educator, and this program provides a forum to recognize that commitment and the important work they do."

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• SB 837 - The LPC voted to formally oppose SB 837.  
• We called a special meeting specifically to vote on approving our opposition letter and statement.

• See our SB 837 Opposition Letter and Analysis Statement here