Inaugural awards for excellence in early childhood education

Sixteen early childhood professionals in anglophone sector being recognized

Release

Department of Education and Early Childhood Development

May 22, 2026

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Sixteen early childhood educators in the anglophone sector are being recognized with the inaugural Minister’s Excellence in Early Learning and Child Care Awards.

The awards, given out in four categories, honour early childhood educators, administrators, operators and inclusion support workers who have demonstrated a strong commitment to high-quality early learning and child care. Recipients are recognized for excellence in leadership, inclusion and reflective practice, and for creating responsive learning environments that support the learning, development and well-being of young children.

“Congratulations to all the recipients of the Excellence in Early Learning and Child Care Awards,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Claire Johnson. “You are part of a critical stage in children’s development – where identity, relationships and a love of learning first take shape, and we recognize that this profession deserves recognition in its own. Today, we celebrate your impact, your commitment and the difference you make every day in the lives of children and families across our communities.”

The award recipients are:

Excellence in inclusion, equity and belonging

  • Kari Carrier (Nackawic Childcare)
  • Shannon Nevers (Pitter Patter Daycare, Riverview)
  • Christina Walton (Wonderland Cub Club After School, Valley Waters)
  • Tanisha Furlotte (Happy Little Faces Daycare, Bathurst)

Excellence in relationship-based and responsive environments

  • Kris Foreman (Seeds & Sprouts Childcare, Fredericton)
  • Rhonda McPhee (Wee College Trites, Riverview)
  • Rachel McLaughlin (YMCA Quispamsis)
  • Shari Dawn Walsh (Chatham Day Care Center, Miramichi)

Excellence in innovation and leadership

  • Amanda Nicholson (Amanda’s House, Fredericton)
  • Janice Sutherland (Home With A Heart Daycare, Moncton)
  • Avril Wood-Toner (YMCA North Hub, Saint John)
  • Grace Dick (Kindertots Children’s Centre, Miramichi)

Excellence in reflective practice and professional learning

  • Kristiana Myers (Evergreen Acres Childcare, Fredericton)
  • Amritpal Kaur (Building Futures, Moncton)
  • Shealyn Jackson (Wonderland Child Care, Valley Waters)
  • Julia Gail Langford (Club des Amis, Bathurst)

22-05-26

 

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Media Contact(s)

MEDIA CONTACT:

Alison Taylor, communications, Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, [email protected].