150/250 Celebrating Early Childhood Champions

Why We Celebrate

Our Early Childhood Champions are the foundation upon which children learn, grow, and thrive, shaping Colorado's future one young learner at a time. These heroes bring care, creativity, and unwavering dedication to young learners and their families every single day. They are the backbone of our early childhood system. 

Join us in recognizing the extraordinary commitment of all those who make a life-changing difference in the early years.

Who Can Be Nominated?

Anyone who champions early childhood in Colorado deserves recognition! We are looking for inspiring stories from across the state.

Nominate a champion today, including (but not limited to):

• Early Childhood Education & Child Care Staff: Teachers, Assistant Teachers, Child Care Providers (Center/Home-based), Child Development Specialists, Directors, and Administrators.
   

• Family & Community Support Professionals: Home Visitors, Social Workers, Family Navigators, Community Health Workers, and Librarians.
   

• Health & Wellness Professionals: Pediatricians, Nurses, Early Intervention Specialists, and Mental Health/Behavioral Health Specialists.
   

• Dedicated Volunteers & Advocates: Parent Volunteers, Board Members, Nonprofit Leaders, and Policymakers/Elected Officials who champion early childhood issues.
   

• School District/Program Staff: Preschool and Kindergarten Teachers, School Psychologists, Janitors, Bus Drivers, and School Administrators working with birth-to-five populations.
   

• Other Community Supporters: Local Business Owners who offer family-friendly benefits or support child care access.

Nominate today! 

Every day, early childhood professionals create safe, nurturing spaces for children to grow. Their stories deserve to be told—help us celebrate them.

Nominate A Colorado Early Childhood Champion 

Early Childhood Champion Spotlights

• Read Shelley Smith's Story
• Read Anna Jo Hayne's Story
• Read Ken Sander's Story
• Read Matthew Mitchell's Story