"The recipients are everyday heroes to the children they care for and the parents who trust them with their children. They exemplify the high-quality child care we have in Alberta," said Janis Tarchuk, Minister of Children and Youth Services. “Their commitment is why this awards program is so important. It draws attention to the tremendous contributions each of them makes in their communities and it gives Albertans an opportunity to say thank you for a job well done.”

The nine Child Care Professional Awards of Excellence recipients were selected based on specific examples of how they incorporated innovation and creativity in their work in a variety of areas, including how they support children’s development and well-being, celebrate diversity and nurture the individuality of each child. They were also assessed on how they involve parents, families and communities and help raise the profile of the child care profession.

The Child Care Professional Awards of Excellence recognize highly-skilled professionals who work in Alberta’s licensed day cares, pre-schools, out-of-school care or approved family day homes. Now in its fourth year, the awards attracted 145 nominations this year, submitted by parents and child care operators from across the province.

The awards are presented by Children and Youth Services with support from ACCESS Television; CTV; Kedros Furniture - A Division of the Excel Society; Wintergreen Learning Materials; and CORUS Entertainment (92.5 Joe FM, 630 CHED, CISN Country 103.9 FM, AM 770 CHQR, Country 105 FM and Q107 Classic Rock).