At thread, we recognize that early childhood educators are essential to building strong families, thriving communities, and a resilient Alaska. Each year, thread Awards provides an opportunity to honor the individuals and programs who are advancing early learning through their commitment, leadership, and care.
All bios and nominee histories are provided directly by the nominees and their nominators. thread is sharing direct quotes from recipients and nominators.
Cindy Harrington Heart & Mind Award Recipient
Nestor Martinez | Nome
The Cindy Harrington Heart & Mind Award honors an individual currently working in early childhood education in Alaska who exemplifies passion, strength, and professionalism.
This award is inspired by Cindy Harrington, one of the founding mothers of early childhood work in Alaska and a longtime member of the thread Board of Directors until her passing in 2014. Cindy’s legacy continues through this recognition, celebrating educators who demonstrate resilience, compassion, and a deep commitment to children, families, and their colleagues.
This year’s recipient, Nestor Martinez of Nome, embodies those values in every aspect of his work.
Nestor’s journey into early childhood education reflects growth, purpose, and dedication. Originally from California, he has called Alaska home for the past nine years. As a husband and father of three, with a second set of twins soon joining his family, he brings both personal and professional experience to his work with young children.
He began his education career in Utqiaġvik as a one-on-one special education aide, quickly discovering a passion for teaching and student support. That early experience led him into substitute teaching and eventually long-term classroom leadership across multiple subjects. Through these experiences, he found his calling in education.
Determined to grow in the field, Nestor became the first in his family to graduate from college, earning a degree in Liberal Arts from Iḷisaġvik College. While working as a recruiter, he was mentored by Dr. Hal Haynes, whose “Student First” philosophy continues to guide his practice today.
Now working in Nome at Kawerak as a child care educator, Nestor creates a dynamic and engaging learning environment that integrates wellness, math, movement, and language. He incorporates both Spanish and Iñupiaq into daily activities, strengthening cultural connection and creating meaningful learning experiences for children.
His nominator shared, “He has taken advantage of every opportunity for professional growth with enthusiasm and dedication.” Nestor not only participates in training and professional development, he brings what he learns directly back to his classroom and colleagues, strengthening practice across his program.
He approaches feedback with humility and openness. As noted by his nominator, “He not only took feedback with grace and positivity, he made immediate corrections and continues to grow.” This commitment to continuous learning has become one of his greatest strengths.
Nestor also builds strong relationships with families, ensuring learning extends beyond the classroom and into the home. He uplifts his colleagues, shares knowledge generously, and remains a steady, positive presence for both children and adults.
Above all, he remains committed to students. His journey reflects resilience, humility, and a deep belief in children’s success.
Congratulations, Nestor Martinez, 2026 Cindy Harrington Heart & Mind Award recipient!
Legacy Award Recipient
Waughnita James-Elton | Juneau
The Legacy Award recognizes an individual who has made significant and lasting contributions to early childhood education in Alaska.
Launched in 2025, this award honors leaders whose work has strengthened the quality, accessibility, and impact of early learning programs across the state.
This year’s recipient, Waughnita James-Elton, has dedicated her life to children, families, culture, and community.
Waughnita’s journey into early childhood education began through personal experience and a deep commitment to her own family. After starting college in Kansas studying graphic arts, she shifted her path following the birth of her first child, discovering her true calling in supporting young children.
Her early work began in Hoonah at the community’s first childcare program. After relocating to Juneau for her daughter’s medical care, she continued her career in early childhood education, often working alongside her own children and gaining a firsthand understanding of the importance of accessible, high-quality care for families.
Over the years, she has served in a wide range of roles, including Head Start substitute teacher, cultural camp leader, and family child care educator. She now serves as Administrator at Tlingit and Haida’s Little Eagles and Ravens Nest Child Care (LEARN), where she leads with both strength and humility.
Her leadership is grounded in support and collaboration. As her nominator shared, “She consistently helps and encourages families, staff, and colleagues through her supportive and hands-on leadership.” Even in an administrative role, she remains actively engaged in classrooms and daily program operations.
Waughnita is also deeply committed to professional growth for her team. She encourages staff to pursue credentials and education, helping build confidence and strengthen the early childhood workforce. Her leadership ensures professional development feels both accessible and supported.
Her impact extends beyond her program. With 25 years in early childhood education, she continues to strengthen program quality while remaining actively present in classrooms and community events.
Cultural connection is central to her work. As a proud Tlingit woman, she incorporates language, dance, and tradition into her program, ensuring children experience identity, belonging, and cultural pride from an early age.
At the heart of her story is family. A mother of ten children, biological, adopted, and those she has welcomed into her care, she leads with love, resilience, and commitment. As her nominator shared, “Her commitment to children goes far beyond her professional role, it is who she is.”
Her legacy is one of service, culture, leadership, and unwavering dedication to Alaska’s children.
Quality Improvement Program of the Year – Child Care Center
Crystal Child Development Center – Lake Otis Site
This award recognizes an early childhood program that demonstrates exceptional progress and commitment to continuous quality improvement through Learn & Grow, Alaska’s Quality Recognition and Improvement System.
At Crystal Child Development Center, Lake Otis Site, Associate Administrator Lavelie Ferguson exemplifies leadership, perseverance, and a deep commitment to children and families.
Lavelie began her early childhood career after immigrating to the United States, working full-time while completing her degree in early childhood education. After her first program closed, she continued her journey with resilience and determination, eventually joining Crystal Child Development Center, where she has served for more than a decade.
What brings her the greatest joy is seeing children’s smiles each day and knowing she is part of their growth and development.
As her Professional Development Specialist shared, “Even on the most difficult days in child care, she consistently offers a smile, her infectious laugh, and unwavering support to staff and families alike.”
Lavelie credits thread’s training and support as a key part of her program’s continued improvement and success.
Quality Improvement Program of the Year – Family Child Care Home
Amber Bilingual Child Care
Amber Bilingual Child Care, led by owner and administrator Yvelisse Celda, is recognized for its commitment to culturally responsive, family-centered care.
Yvelisse’s journey began in the Dominican Republic and evolved through motherhood, community experience, and a lifelong love of children. Inspired by her sister and her own family experiences, she opened her child care program in 2017 with a clear mission: to create a safe, loving, and educational environment where children feel at home.
Her program reflects this philosophy every day. She ensures children feel safe, supported, and valued while also learning essential life skills, values, and cultural understanding.
Families describe her care as deeply personal and consistent, built on trust, safety, and love.
Yvelisse also encourages other aspiring providers to pursue their goals with confidence and courage, offering her own journey as an example of what is possible.
A Celebration of Impact
The 2026 thread Awards highlight what we see across Alaska every day: early childhood educators and program leaders are shaping the future of our state through their work with young children.
Their impact is lasting. Their leadership is essential. And their dedication strengthens families and communities across Alaska.
We are honored to celebrate this year’s recipients and grateful for the many educators who continue to make a difference every day.