ABOUT THE GALA
What is the Early Excellence Gala?
The Early Excellence Gala 2025 celebrates the outstanding contributions of early childhood professionals. This elegant evening features inspiring speeches, prestigious awards, entertainment, and networking opportunities, honoring those who shape the future of our youngest learners. The Early Excellence Gala recognizes the dedication and hard work of early childhood educators while supporting the continued growth and advocacy of this essential field. It’s a night to celebrate, connect, and reflect on the profound impact of early childhood education. Hosted by Taylor Dee Kids TV Media and supported by local community organizations, this event brings together partners from various communities to celebrate and uplift early childhood education.
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Bring the Early Excellence Gala to You!
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THE FACTS
Early childhood educators earn significantly less than K-12 teachers, with assistant teachers making $12.01–$15/hr, teachers starting at $14–$17/hr, and administrators earning $21.63/hr (NCES, 2020). This low pay, coupled with a lack of appreciation, contributes to high turnover rates, which can reach 30–40% (NAEYC). Despite the critical role early childhood education plays, it is often undervalued, with many still seeing preschool as less important than K-12 education (NIEER). Additionally, many educators lack access to professional development opportunities, limiting their ability to improve their skills (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2019).
THE PURPOSE
The Early Excellence Gala is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the remarkable contributions of early childhood professionals. It aims to raise awareness about the critical importance of early education and the vital services provided by supporting early childhood organizations. The Gala also seeks to generate support for local nonprofits committed to the growth, advocacy, and continued advancement of the early childhood sector. This event offers a special opportunity to recognize the dedication, innovation, and collaborative efforts that are strengthening the global network of individuals and organizations working to nurture early childhood development.
THE FACTS
Early childhood professionals play a critical role in shaping the minds and futures of our youngest learners — yet their work is often overlooked and undervalued. Despite their profound impact, many earn just $12 to $17 an hour, with administrators averaging around $21.63. These low wages, combined with a lack of recognition, contribute to high turnover rates of 30–40% across the field. Many educators also lack access to the professional development opportunities they need to grow, and early learning itself is still too often seen as less important than K–12 education. Honoring these professionals is not just an act of gratitude — it’s a call to action. It’s a chance to spotlight their dedication, advocate for better support, and affirm that the work they do is essential, worthy, and deserving of lasting recognition.
Key Event Details
DATE
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On a special date in your community, we can come together to celebrate early childhood education and honor the individuals making a difference. Let's us know you're interested in the celebration coming to your community.
TIME
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The event will unfold in the evening, featuring a dynamic schedule of inspiring speeches, engaging activities, and ample networking opportunities for all attendees.​
VENUE
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Hosted at a local venue in your community, bringing together educators, supporters, and community leaders.
TICKET
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Tickets will be available soon. Stay tuned for more information on how to secure your spot at this impactful event in your community. Reach out to us if you are interested in bringing the Early Excellence Gala to your community!
GUESTS
A vibrant mix of local community leaders, early childhood professionals and their special guests, and other early childhood supporters.