Prince George child care provider receives award of excellence from province

A child care provider in Prince George has been selected as a recipient of the Child Care Awards of Excellence by the province.

Lynette Mikalishen, director of child care for the YMCA of Northern BC in Prince George, received a regional award for excellence during a virtual ceremony Tuesday (May 25) evening.

The YMCA of Northern BC says Mikalishen was selected for this award of distinction based on her commitment to working collaboratively with others across the north, being a champion of ensuring quality, positive interactions with children and families while showing a commitment to truth and reconciliation and cultural competency in child care.

"This past year, our lives were turned upside down, but early childhood educators and child care providers worked hard to adapt, safely and quickly, providing a sense of routine and comfort for B.C. children and their families," said Mitzi Dean, Minister of Children and Family Development.

"Their achievements deserve our gratitude and recognition on a daily basis, but this year more than ever I'm honoured to celebrate their exceptional achievements with the Child Care Awards of Excellence. Congratulations!"

After an open call for nominations and a review by an external selection committee, 17 Child Care Awards of Excellence were awarded across nine categories.

The awards were given to people and teams who support families in their communities by providing quality and inclusive child care programming.

"I have been so inspired by the way early childhood educators and child care providers across the province have stepped up to the challenges of COVID-19, letting their professionalism and dedication shine through the pandemic," said Katrina Chen, Minister of State for Child Care.

"They've made such an incredible difference in the lives of so many this year, and these awards are one way to recognize their achievements and show our appreciation on behalf of all B.C. families."

Every two years, the Child Care Awards of Excellence recognizes the contributions that early childhood educators, licensed child care providers, non-profit and private organizations, businesses and local governments make throughout B.C.

This year's award recipients were chosen from 88 nominations submitted by peers, parents, child care advocates, local governments and other organizations.

“Huge thanks to Lynette and her team that help support her in achieving this important vision for quality, accessible child care across the north!” says the YMCA of Northern B.C.