TACEI 2009 Classroom Teacher Excellence Award
Infant –Toddler Teachers   

Beverly Mullins

Beverly Mullins has taught young children at the First Baptist Child Development Center in Jackson, Tennessee for more than 30 years. Over that time we have been truly blessed with her presence. She expresses every quality that could be asked of a professional childcare provider. She has more patience than we have come in contact with over the years. She has the ability to sooth even the most rambunctious children with her calm touch. Her passive authority demands the respect of elders and children alike.

Beverly’s talents are diverse, ranging from singing a multitude of song to acting, and her all popular puppets are pleasure during story time. Beverly practices her faith in every move she makes, from discipline to playtime. It is evident that a relationship with Christ is what drives her each and everyday.

Malinda Williams

Malinda Williams teachers infants and toddlers at  the Early Childhood Learning Center, Washington Elementary School  in Kingsport, TN.  She has been teaching in early care and education for 20 years.  She has taught in infant classrooms, toddler classrooms, and infant/toddler classrooms combined, as well as in preschool.  Malinda has strong love for children and their families.  She has a Child Development Associate Credential coupled with numerous years of on-going professional development obtained locally, and at state and national levels as she participates yearly in early childhood conferences and training sessions.  Her strong knowledge base of infant/toddler child development and early childhood education is evident in her classroom environment and practice. 

When you enter her classroom her enthusiasm, innovativeness, and her genuine concern for quality infant/toddler experiences are evident.  I have had the privilege of working with Malinda for the first 12 years of her career and have always considered her as an Outstanding Infant/Toddler teacher.  She not only plans for the environment and quality experiences, she knows how to connect with families and most importantly children.  She encourages the shy child, challenges the curious and ready, and calms the upset, always showing the utmost respect.