Excellence in Early Education Award
In addition to the inspiring presentations, we will proudly announce the winners of our 2024 Early Childhood Educator Awards including the “Childhood Champion” Award which will be awarded to a grand prize winner ($5000) and two “Elite Educator” Awards ($2500 each). These awards honor educators who have demonstrated outstanding dedication, creativity, and leadership in their classrooms and communities.
Nominations are open to parents, community members, fellow educators, and employers who wish to recognize the extraordinary efforts of early childhood educators in Teton County. We encourage everyone to participate and highlight the remarkable work these individuals are doing to build a brighter future for our children. Nominations were submitted from September 16th to 29th, 2024
2024 EMpowerED Winners
Childhood Champion
$5,000 prize
Paige Fisher
Director of Early Childhood,
Mountain Academy Preschool
Paige has been with Mountain Academy for over 10 years. She empowers children to grow into their own best selves while keeping the parents engaged and excited. She’s created a program that fosters children's curiosity and independence through place based learning (even at the age of 18 months). She is committed to advancing early childhood education locally through offering exceptional professional learning programs for educators.
Elite Educator
$2,500 prize
Charlotte Souter
Teton County School District Grizzlies
Charlotte employs a variety of engaging activities that cater to different learning styles, ensuring that every child feels seen and valued. She creates an environment where friendships thrive, and teaches children valuable social skills through cooperative games and group activities. She also places a strong emphasis on including families in the educational process, and maintaining open lines of communication.
Elite Educator
$2,500 prize
Diane McGee
Tiny Explorers Preschool
Diane opened her early childhood program known as "Tiny Explorers" in 2020 based on her passion for outdoor education and experiential based learning. She has a deep knowledge of the outdoors and empowers children to be stewards of the environment. Diane encourages problem-solving in her young students whether interpersonal or when facing new challenges, and she is a wonderful communicator with both the parents and students.