The UNH Child Study and Development Center was honored recently when kindergarten teacher Sara West received one of only three NH Excellence in Child Care Awards for 2007 from Governor John Lynch in a ceremony in Concord across from the State House. The Excellence in Child Care Awards are organized each year by Early Learning NH, a state-wide advocacy network, to recognize outstanding commitment to the children and families of the state.

In her acceptance speech in Concord in front of the State Commissioners for Education, Health and Human Services, and Employment Security, Sara noted the importance of a more complex image of early childhood educators: “The image should be one of observer, provocateur, active listener, documenter, nurturer, and reflective practitioner – we are dynamic and intelligent professionals.”

The center closed early so that the entire CSDC staff could travel to Concord to celebrate the accomplishment. CSDC Executive Director, Dr. John Nimmo noted that “Sara is known for her deep commitment to and respect for young children and families. She is a caring soul who constantly amazes me when I observe her problem-solving with children. Not only do children flock to Sara, but she is also praised by UNH students who have been mentored with such thoughtful care and challenge.”

West, who has been a part of the CSDC professional community for over a decade, graduated from UNH in 1993 with a B.S. in Family Studies (Young Child) and then again in 2003 with a M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education/Special Needs with teacher certification. She recently received her Highly Qualified Teaching Status in 2007 and is credentialed in NH as a Trainer/Mentor/Faculty.