Outstanding Early Childhood Educators Contest
Welcome to Growing In Grace!
Do you know a dedicated, compassionate, and inspiring early childhood educator in
Passaic County, New Jersey?
We are honoring the often-overlooked contributions of childcare providers, early childhood teachers, and preschool staff, recognizing not only their educational impact but their trauma-informed care and vital role in resilience-building for children facing ACEs.
Please find the link below and nominate today!
CATEGORIES ARE AS FOLLOWS:
The Little Steps, Big Impact Award
Honors an educator who creates transformative learning experiences that spark curiosity, build confidence, and inspire lasting growth. Celebrates the power of small, intentional moments that lead to meaningful, life-changing outcomes for students.
Criteria:
• Designs engaging, innovative, and inclusive learning experiences
• Demonstrates measurable impact on student growth and achievement
• Inspires a love for learning through creativity and passion
• Fosters a positive, supportive classroom culture
• Encourages and celebrates progress, no matter how small
The Faithful Foundation Award
Honors those whose steady presence, wisdom, and passion have shaped the lives of children, families, and fellow educators for generations.
Criteria:
• Retired with a minimum of 20 years of service in early education
• Demonstrates consistent excellence and commitment to the field
• Serves as a mentor and role model for colleagues and emerging educators
• Positively impacts the lives of children and families over time
• Leaves a lasting legacy through contributions to the school or community
Overall Best Child Care Provider in Passaic County
To be considered for this award, each nominated program must ensure that a minimum of 5 staff members representing their center are registered and attend The Early Childhood Conference on October 11th and the Awards Breakfast on November 1st. This requirement reflects our commitment to celebrating providers who demonstrate strong staff engagement, teamwork and community presence
SCORING SCALE:
Early Childhood Education Awards Nomination Rubric
• 5 – Exceptional
• 4 – Strong
• 3 – Adequate
• 2 – Needs Improvement
• 1 – Limited Evidence
Maximum Total Points: 50
*Nominee must score at least 35 points to qualify for consideration as an award recipient.
1. Application Quality & Presentation (0–10 points)
• Application is complete, professional, and submitted according to guidelines.
• Clear, well-written responses that highlight achievements.
• Includes all required supporting materials (bio, photo, documentation).
2. Application Deadline Compliance (0–5 points)
• Submitted on time → 5 points
• Submitted late with notice → 3 points
• Submitted after deadline/no notice → 0 points
3. Parent & Community Engagement / Voting (0–10 points)
• Actively encourages parent and community participation in voting.
• Evidence of strong support and testimonials from families.
• Demonstrates meaningful parent partnership.
4. Advertisement & Promotion (0–10 points)
• Effectively shares nomination through social media, flyers, or community outlets.
• Promotes the awards process positively and professionally.
• Encourages awareness of early childhood education in the community.
5. Professional Commitment & Impact (0–10 points)
• Demonstrates dedication to children, families, and early learning excellence.
• Evidence of positive contributions in the classroom and community.
• Recognized as a role model or leader in the field.
6. Conference Participation** – October 11 (0–5 points)
• Attended and actively participated → 5 points
• Attended but limited participation → 3 points
• Did not attend → 0 points
✅ Total Score: ____ / 50
**CONFERENCE INFORMATION:
Early Childhood Education Conference
Harvesting Hope: Inspiring Change
October 11 - 9am
JFK High School - Paterson, NJ
Admission is FREE
TOPICS TO INCLUDE:
- TRUMA FORMED IN EARLY
CHILDHOOD CLASSROOM
- UNDERSTANDING & RESPONDING TO
ACEs: BUILDING RESILIENCE AND TRUST IN
URBAN COMMUNITIES
- THE IMPACT OF ACEs IN THE CLASSROOM
AND HOME
REGISTER HERE:
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