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2026 Triangle Child Care Awards Winners Announced!
Introducing the 2026 Triangle Child Care Award winners!
We’re proud to announce our 2026 Triangle Child Care Award winners, who exemplify excellence across every aspect of early childhood education.
On Friday, March 27, Early Years hosted the 2026 Triangle Child Care Awards. We had a great turnout of educators, advocates and community members gathered to celebrate those who make it possible for every child to get the strongest start in life.
The recipients honored are listed below.
🏆Early Childhood Champion Award: Henrietta Zalkind
🏆The Early Years Public Service Award: Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt
🏆The Dorothy B. Graham Early Childhood Leadership Award: Anna Mercer-McLean
The Mary Y. Bridgers Early Childhood Educator Award
🥇 Winner: Kayla Riley from the Goddard School Raleigh Ridge
🥈 Finalist: Francena Wallace from Christian Prep Academy in Durham
🥉 Semi-Finalist: Kristi Royster from the Community School for People Under 6 in Carrboro
🥉 Semi-Finalist: Darlene Mitchell from Just Growin Up CLC in Durham
Listen to the speeches of our winners!
Anna Mercer-McLean
Dorothy B. Graham Early Childhood Leadership Award
“It’s time to work to find some federal and state funding that will fairly compensate the workforce and to maintain that quality system we’ve built in North Carolina and that North Carolina has been known for years.”
Francena Wallace
Finalist for the Mary Y. Bridgers Early Educator Award
“Ms. Wallace has an unmatched passion and heart for teaching young children. She selflessly gives her time and talents to grow as an educator, and as a result, the children and families she serves receive the greatest benefit.
-Pamela Powell, Director
Darlene Mitchell
Semi-Finalist for the Mary Y. Bridgers Early Educator Award
“She is so caring. Always went above and beyond to ensure that ALL her kids not only learned, but felt safe while in her care. Never felt like a day care, more of a home away from home.”
-Nikki T. Smith, Parent
Kayla Riley
Winner of the Mary Y. Bridgers Early Educator Award
“When Kayla became a lead teacher at Goddard Raleigh Ridge, she possessed the passion to build a creative and positive learning environment where children can learn freely and lovingly. That passion continues to burn brighter each school year, touching families and teachers who have the opportunity to interact with her.”
-Deondrea McDowell, Pre-K Teacher
Photos coming soon!
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