Adrianna Salas, a dedicated infant/toddler educator at the Child and Family Research Center’s Early Head Start Program in the College of Education & Human Development, has been recognized as the 2024 ÁùºÏ±¦µä Early Educator of the Year award winner for the infant/toddler educator category. This distinguished honor highlights the vital role of educators working with children from birth to age five.
“Early childhood educators are integral to both our education system and the community,” said Jhone Ebert, ÁùºÏ±¦µä Superintendent of Public Instruction. “They lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning and growth. This recognition is an effort to elevate the important job they do, and to celebrate their hard work and dedication.”
Salas is one of only two teachers in ÁùºÏ±¦µä to receive this prestigious award from the ÁùºÏ±¦µä Department of Education. The awards program, now in its fourth year, recognizes the valuable contributions of early educators and their impact on the lives of young children and their families.
"We are proud to support one of the most critical needs in our community—young children and their families," Donald Easton-Brooks, Ph.D., dean of the College of Education & Human Development, said. "Having such a dedicated, high-quality early childhood educator making a positive impact on the lives of young children is a great honor for both our University and the community."
On Sept. 27, Salas was honored with a surprise visit at the University’s Early Head Start Sage Street location. Staff from the ÁùºÏ±¦µä Department of Education, alongside faculty from the College of Education & Human Development and her family, celebrated her achievement.
Salas was nominated by Stephen Allen, program coordinator for the Child and Family Research Center. When he received the email from the ÁùºÏ±¦µä Department of Education, Salas was the first person who popped into his head for the Early Educator of the Year award, and he couldn't think of anyone more deserving. "I couldn't be happier for her and this achievement. This is a testament to Adrianna's dedication, drive and passion she puts into everything she does.”
Adrianna Salas celebrated with her sister, who attended the surprise announcement.Reflecting on her role, Salas shared, “As an early childhood educator, I find fulfillment in playing a crucial role in a child's early education. Building meaningful relationships with young children and their families is deeply rewarding. I strive to be a consistent and supportive presence for the children and families in my class and throughout the center.”
“Adrianna attends and participates in Policy Council and is continuously finding ways to learn and grow within the program,” said Gemma Romo, Early Head Start program coordinator. “She is an outstanding lead teacher and educator, always seeking to increase family engagement.”
Salas has worked with infants and toddlers at the Early Head Start Program for over four years and is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science at the University. “Adrianna brings the knowledge learned in the university classroom directly into her work with children and families every day. In turn, other students benefit from her field-based knowledge and expertise. It’s a win-win! We are so proud of Adrianna for this recognition,” Melissa Burnham, Ph.D., department chair of Human Development, Family, Science, and Counseling and executive coordinator of the Child and Family Research Center, said.
The ÁùºÏ±¦µä Department of Education’s Office of Early Learning and Development partnered with The Children's Cabinet, ÁùºÏ±¦µä Association for the Education of Young Children, and Lakeshore Learning to recognize the winners and finalists. Award recipients receive a $500 prize, a framed certificate, and a Lakeshore gift certificate in recognition of their outstanding contributions.
Salas truly embodies The Wolf Pack Way. From her desire to take what she has learned and use it to help others, from her dedication to her education and her use of her unique skills, talents and heartfelt passions to uplift others in significant ways, she is creating exponential impact in the community. Her efforts and successes are making the world a better place.
