HomeNational Christian Director Award

2026 National Christian Director of the Year Award

The Association of Christian Early Educators established the National Christian Director of the Year Award to honor Directors who cultivate exceptional early education environments rooted in safety, excellence, and Christ‑centered leadership. Directors shape the daily experiences of children and families, and—as John Maxwell reminds us—“everything rises and falls on leadership.”

This award reflects ACEE’s renewed commitment to celebrating the often‑unseen leaders who faithfully guide child care centers with integrity, vision, and compassion. The selected Director will be honored at our 2026 Annual Conference on September 26, 2026.

The ACEE National Christian Director of the Year will receive:

1. $500 cash award
2. A weekend getaway at the Inner Banks Inn in Edenton, NC
3. Award Presentation at the Annual Conference
4. Recognition on ACEE’s website and social media platforms
5. A seat on the 2027 Award Selection Committee
6. Complimentary ACEE membership for one year

We invite you to nominate an exceptional Director whose leadership has strengthened their center, church, and community—and whose legacy reflects the heart of Christian early education.

Eligibility

Nominations are open to all Christian Child Care Directors (ACEE membership is not required)

• Must be an active Director

• Have at least three years experience in Director’s role

• Demonstrate outstanding leadership skills through staff professionalism, morale, and family involvement

• Be nominated by a person (who is not a relative) affiliated with the Early Education program (e.g., colleague, administrator, supervisor, parent of a child, etc.)

Nomination Process

1. Let the Director know they are being nominated.

2. Submit the Nominee’s personal resume, bio, and accomplishments.

3. Tell us why you believe this person should be chosen for this honor and any noteworthy accomplishments.

4. Submit three letters from enrolled parents supporting the nomination.

5. Include a picture of the nominee for publication.

Selection Process

Nominees will be judged on the following criteria:

Educational Achievement (Highest level of academic achievement)
Number of Years in Early Childhood Education
Center Leadership, Credibility, and Integrity
Classroom Experience (Creating exceptional environments for children to thrive)
Staff Development (Developing, Promoting and Enabling the growth of staff)
Center Operations (Operating a Center Successfully)
Financial Management (Operating the Center with sound fiscal efficiency)
Personal & Professional Achievements
Community Involvement
Membership in Professional Organization

Applications will be screened and scored by a panel of non-partial Early Education experts.

1. Applications must be received by September 1, 2026.

2. An presentation will be made at the Annual Conference on September 26, 2026.

3. Email all nominations to Nichole Kobia
Write “NOMINATION” in your subject line
Or mail to: Nichole Kobia, ACEE, PO Box 6068, Christiansburg, VA 24068

For questions please call 904-573-8831, ext. 102.