Jackson, WY — On Thursday, Nov. 5, the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole hosted the annual Champions for Children Awards at The Lupine Room in The Cloudveil. The ceremony honored three early‑learning professionals whose work is shaping the future of children across Teton County.
Childhood Champion Award
Oksana Onysko received the top honor, the $5,000 Childhood Champion Award, for her ability to see each child as a unique individual and help them develop confidence. Nicole Morrison, a parent who nominated Onysko, praised her “superpower” of recognizing every child completely and noted that her family will be grateful for her impact for the rest of their lives.
Elite Educator Awards
Adrienne Coca and Wendy Williams each earned a $2,500 Elite Educator Award. Coca was highlighted for creating meaningful learning experiences and building lasting relationships that extend beyond the preschool classroom. Alex Goe, who nominated her, said former students still seek her guidance years after leaving preschool.
Williams was recognized for her consistent dedication to children and families. Mary Beth Mason, her nominator, said Williams has a gift for improving those around her and always keeps children and families at the center of her work.
Community Impact
Colby Mitchell, Backbone Leader of the Expanded Learning Collective, emphasized that early‑childhood educators are among the most important influences in a child’s life, yet their contributions often go unnoticed. “These awards give our community an opportunity to recognize the people who are shaping our children’s futures every single day,” Mitchell said.
The Champions for Children initiative, originally founded by the Children’s Learning Center, Jackson Hole Children’s Museum, and Teton Literacy Center, now operates under the Expanded Learning Collective of the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole. It seeks to elevate early‑learning opportunities by recognizing outstanding educators, providing resources, and advocating for a strong, supported workforce.
Access to quality early education in Teton County depends on a well‑trained, motivated workforce. By highlighting exemplary teachers, the community demonstrates its commitment to the youngest members of the valley and the families that support them.
For more information about the Champions for Children program, its award recipients, and ways to support early‑learning initiatives, visit www.championsforchildrenjh.com or contact Colby Mitchell at [email protected].
Original reporting: Buckrail (Jackson WY) — read the source article.
