Teacher Receives Excellence In Child Care Award
By Beth Potier, Media Relations
November 21, 2007
UNH Child Study and Development Center (CSDC) kindergarten teacher Sara West
received a 2007 Early Learning NH Excellence in Child Care Award from Governor
John Lynch in a ceremony in Concord last week. West was one of only three recipients
of the award, 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 before the State Commissioners for Education, Health
and Human Services, and Employment Security, West 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,” she
said.
“Sara is known for her deep commitment to and respect for young children
and families,” said John Nimmo, CSDC executive director and associate
professor of family studies. “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 more than
a decade, graduated from UNH in 1993 with a B.S. in family studies (with a
concentration in young child) and then again in 2003 with a M.Ed. in early
childhood education/special needs with teacher certification. She received
her “highly qualified teaching” status from the state Department
of Education in 2007 and is credentialed in New Hampshire as a trainer/mentor/faculty.
West is a resident of Dover.
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