This inaugural event, happening Thursday, May 23rd at the CityView Center, is designed to recognize individuals who work and volunteer in the early childhood field. From the press release:
“Brain research has shown the foundation for lifelong learning is created during those precious years from birth through age eight. Professionals in early childhood play a crucial role and have a huge responsibility in the development of our children,” said Kimberlie Kranich, director of engagement and educational outreach at Illinois Public Media. “We want to honor those professionals, recognize their volunteers, and raise awareness of the need for more funding to hire and retain early childhood educators.”
Attendees will be treated to dinner, live music from the Banks Bridgewater Lewis Fine Arts Academy, and a keynote address from Bethany Patten, workforce development policy director at the Illinois Governor’s Office of Early Childhood Development.
WILL Education is embarking on a broader endeavor to increase support for and awareness of the work of early childhood education, “to recognize early childhood professionals in central Illinois, raise public awareness of the critical work they do, and highlight what research shows are critical steps needed to move forward.”
Photo by Kimberlie Kranich from WILL Education website