Childcare Resources Celebrates Early Childhood Educators with New Award

Marilyn Brock (L) accepts Early Childhood Educator of the Year award from Shannon McGuire Bowman (R). Brock has dedicated over 30 years of service to young children and families.

Childcare Resources of Indian River proudly presented the inaugural Early Childhood Educator of the Year Award to Marilyn Brock in recognition of her more than 30 years of service to young children and families. The award was created to honor the professionalism of early educators and to highlight the essential role they play in shaping children’s lives. The presentation took place during Childcare Resources’ Conscious Discipline professional learning workshop at the Vero Beach Museum of Art.

Tara Beard, Childcare Resources School Director, praises Brock’s impact. “The kindness and patience she shows to her students and their families is remarkable,” says Beard. “Marilyn is everything Childcare Resources represents, and we are blessed to have her.”

Finalist Terrie Sears (L) alongside Head Start St. Helen’s School Director Camilla Andersen.

All finalists were nominated by their school directors, a testament to the deep respect and admiration they have earned within their own communities.

“There’s nothing more rewarding than knowing that I’ve made an impact,” says Brock. “I get to celebrate accomplishments throughout the day and watch my students grow. No matter how many days I do this, it never gets old.”

Finalist Nicole Patton (R) alongside Kidtastic Large Family Daycare Director Kathryn Muth.

“Marilyn’s dedication as an educator goes beyond teaching,” says Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “She has created a nurturing environment where children feel valued and families feel supported. Her lifelong commitment to this work is a gift to our community.”

In addition to honoring Brock, Childcare Resources recognized the outstanding success of other finalists: Terrie Sears at Head Start St. Helen’s, Nicole Patton at Kidtastic Large Family Daycare, Genesis Sosa at Global Learning of Vero, Rose Marie Heaton at Trinity Episcopal School, and Mauricia Flynn at Bridges ELC. Together, these educators exemplify the passion and dedication that strengthen early childhood education.