Morrisville State College Children's Center Teacher Wins National Award

A local teacher is among those who received the 2012 Terri Lynne Lokoff/Children's TYLENOL® National Child Care Teacher Award.



Cynthia Wickens, of Sherrill, a preschool teacher at the Children's Center at Morrisville State College, Inc., is among 52 recipients, six from New York state, who received the prestigious award which is based on teachers' commitment and dedication to children they serve.



Child care teachers from throughout the United States and the District of Columbia were invited to apply for the award which acknowledges the critical role of child care teachers in providing quality early care and education.



Each applicant designed an enhancement project that illustrates educational, social and emotional benefits for the children in their care. A committee of early childhood educators and specialists reviewed the applications. Winners received a total of $1,000; $500 for personal use and $500 to implement the proposed project.



Wickens' proposed classroom enhancement project, “Little Einsteins,” will help her implement and expand the science curriculum in The Children's Center Preschool Room.



“It's easy to see how dedicated Cindy is to the children when she is in the classroom interacting with them,” said Jennifer Britton, Children's Center director. “She gives them opportunities for real-life, hands-on experiences which enable them to explore their creativity and build their self-confidence.”



Wickens, who has worked at The Children's Center for six years, has a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential awarded by the Council for Professional Development in Washington D.C.



For more information, contact Jennifer Britton at 315-684-6400 or e-mail her at brittojr@morrisville.edu.



The Children's Center is a not-for-profit, 501c, child care center caring for children six weeks to twelve years located on the Morrisville State College Campus. The Center is open to the campus and local community. Both licensed and nationally accredited, it offers quality programming in a safe, nurturing environment. For more information, call 315-684-6400 or visit www.morrisville.edu/childrens_center.