The Vermont Association for the Education of Young Children has named Ami English of Coventry as winner of its eighth annual Early Childhood Educator of the Year Award. English, who has 25 years' experience working with young children, was recognized for her work as teacher and director at Coventry Village School Preschool, where she emphasized imaginative outdoor play.
The award, sponsored by Let's Grow Kids, carries a $2,500 cash prize and all expenses paid to a National Association for the Education of Young Children conference as well as the state conference.
“Ami English understands that building caring and supportive relationships — with children, with families, with colleagues — is key to quality early-childhood education” said VTAEYC Executive Director Janet McLaughlin. “But what really stands out is her passion for play-based learning and her ability to create inviting opportunities for children to lead themselves in discovery. Ami demonstrates this developmentally appropriate practice at the highest level.”
English was presented her award during Vermont’s annual Early Childhood Education Conference Oct 13 at a ceremony sponsored by Mascoma Bank. Also at the ceremony, VTAEYC honored the recipients of five new major awards established to recognize excellence and advocacy among individuals at all career stages who are working both within and in support of early-childhood education:
- US Sen Patrick Leahy, Children's Champion Award.
- Jackie Sprague, Distinguished Service Award.
- Ella Smith McCarthy, University of Vermont, Early Childhood Education Student of the Year Award.
- Tammie Hazlett, Emerging Leader Award.
- Stephanie Carvey, Alyson Grzyb and Laurie Metcalfe, Outstanding Members Award.