The Heart of Gold
Professional of the Month

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Celebrating the early childhood professionals who shape the future of Osceola County’s children.

Every day across Osceola County, early childhood educators nurture curiosity, support families, and help young learners build the foundation for lifelong success. The Heart of Gold initiative recognizes the extraordinary professionals who dedicate their time, training, and heart to the children they serve.

Presented by the Early Learning Coalition of Osceola County
in partnership with Starling Chevrolet

Know someone who deserves recognition?
Nominations accepted year-round.

Eligible Nominees:

  • Must be a Early Learning Educators (Birth–VPK teachers), Family Child Care Providers,  Support Staff employed by the program (bus drivers, custodians, kitchen staff, coaches, etc.), Directors or Administrators of the program, Specialists or Therapists working as part of the program team.
  • Nominees must be current staff members working at an Early Learning Coalition
    contracted program serving children birth through age five.

Learn more about this initiative

The Heart of Gold
Hall of Fame

Each month, one outstanding early childhood professional is selected as the Heart of Gold Professional of the Month. These educators represent the compassion, dedication, and professionalism found in
early learning programs throughout Osceola County.

April 2026

Coming Soon

Nominate Someone Today!

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May 2026

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June 2026

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July 2026

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August 2026

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September 2026

Coming Soon

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Coming Soon

October 2026

Coming Soon

Nominate Someone Today!

Coming Soon

November 2026

Coming Soon

Nominate Someone Today!

Coming Soon

December 2026

Coming Soon

Nominate Someone Today!

Coming Soon

January 2027

Coming Soon

Nominate Someone Today!

Coming Soon

February 2027

Coming Soon

Nominate Someone Today!

Coming Soon

March 2027

Coming Soon

Nominate Someone Today!

Coming Soon

Nominate an Early Childhood Professional

Do you know a professional who:

Cares for children with patience and heart

Creates a safe and welcoming learning environment

Makes learning fun and engaging

Builds strong partnerships with families

Help us recognize the difference they make.

It only takes a few minutes to celebrate someone who gives so much.

If your program is contracted with the Early Learning Coalition of Osceola County, download and post the classroom flyer so families can nominate educators in your program.

Why this Recognition Matters

When people think about education, they often recognize elementary, middle, and high schools. However, the most critical years of learning happen much earlier, from birth through age five. During these vital years, children develop language, confidence, social skills, and the curiosity that shapes lifelong learning.

Early childhood professionals play an essential role in building this foundation. In many programs, these educators wear many hats in a single day. They may serve as teachers, mentors, caregivers, administrators, cooks, drivers, and problem-solvers, all while supporting children and families in meaningful ways.

The Heart of Gold – Professional of the Month Award was created to recognize these extraordinary individuals who dedicate their time, training, and heart to the children and families of Osceola County. Whether working in a family child care home or a center-based program, these professionals make a lasting difference every day.