COLUMBUS COUNTY PARTNERSHIP FOR CHILDREN REWARDS EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS FOR HIGHER EDUCATION SUCCESS

Whiteville — The Columbus County Partnership for Children (CCPC) has awarded a total of $1,200 in educational incentives to local early childhood educators who are continuing their higher education, the organization announced.

The funding aims to support and empower preschool teachers as they pursue advanced professional development and academic degrees within the early childhood education field.

To qualify for the Professional Development Incentive Award, applicants must meet several rigorous standards. Candidates are required to be actively enrolled in a higher education program and participate in technical assistance and coaching with Mary Williams, a CCPC quality childcare specialist. Additionally, educators must submit official transcripts demonstrating semester credit hours earned from an education (EDU) class, maintaining a grade of “C” or better.

The spring 2026 incentive recipients include:

• Joy Jacobs-Rector from Opening Doors Preschool II

• Candy Green from Kid Kare Academy

• Maytee Zaragoza from Grow Early Learning

• Norberta Lopez Guzman from Grow Early Learning

• Jessica Wade from Bri’s Caring Heart Childcare, who recently graduated with an associate degree in early childhood education.

Organizers and recipients alike noted the profound impact these investments have on both the educators and the classrooms they manage.

“Receiving this award will help me continue my education and grow as an early childhood educator,” Maytee Zaragoza said. “It will reduce some of the financial burden of college, allowing me to focus on my studies while continuing to support young children and their families.”

Joy Jacobs-Rector added that receiving the professional recognition makes her “feel valued” as a teacher in the community.

CCPC Executive Director Dr. Selena Rowell emphasized the critical connection between continuing teacher education and local classroom quality.

“We proudly support teachers who have received educational incentives from CCPC as they pursue higher education and professional development,” Dr. Rowell said. “Their commitment to advancing their knowledge and skills strengthens the quality of education for preschoolers in our community. We are honored to invest in their continued success and leadership in the classroom.”

Quality childcare specialist Mary Williams praised the determination of the recipients, noting that their passion elevates the entire community.

“Great educators never stop learning,” Williams said. “Your passion for professional growth inspires others and helps create brighter beginnings for every child you serve.”