2025 Legacy Award Recipient

Heather Bailey’s journey through early childhood education spans nearly four decades—but her true impact goes far beyond the years. With unwavering passion, tireless dedication, and a heart rooted deeply in service, Heather has spent her life shaping the futures of Alaska’s youngest learners and the educators who guide them.

Born in Soldotna and raised in Eagle River, the recipient graduated from Chugiak High School in 1986. She went on to pursue her education at UAA, Virginia Western, and Antioch University of New England, focusing on Early Childhood Education and Human Services. When she’s not championing change for young children, you’ll find her four-wheeling, enjoying time with her family and pets, and soaking in the natural beauty of her Alaskan home.

Her career began humbly in the classroom with Campfire’s Before-and-After-School program in 1988, where she quickly became known for the warmth, connection, and curiosity she brought to every child’s day. Today, as the Operations Manager at Knik Tribe’s Benteh Early Learning Academy, Heather continues to lead with vision and compassion—creating inclusive, culturally respectful environments where children are not only seen, but celebrated.

Guided by the belief that every child is capable, curious, and full of potential, Heather’s work is inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, developmentally appropriate practices, and a profound respect for family partnerships and cultural identity. Her environments are alive with purpose—rooted in nature, built on relationships, and rich in wonder.

Over the years, Heather has worn many hats: teacher, director, mentor, advocate, and policy shaper. She’s worked directly with children in licensed programs, uplifted staff through mentorship and training, and influenced early childhood education across Alaska by promoting quality standards, professional development, and systemic change.

Heather holds a National Administrator Credential through NECPA (National Early Childhood Program Accreditation) and is a proud, active member of national organizations including NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) and NAREA (North American Reggio Emilia Alliance). She has worked in conjunction with the Early Childhood Partnership of MatSu regarding grants and a job fair.  Her voice has echoed through boardrooms, classrooms, and community gatherings alike, always championing the power and importance of early learning.

For more than 30 years, she has been a fierce advocate for bringing the Reggio Emilia approach to Alaskan children—honoring their voices, respecting their rhythms, and elevating the role of relationships in the learning process. Through her leadership, countless educators have found their calling. One even became her son’s first grade teacher—living proof of the legacy Heather has built, one child, one classroom, and one inspired educator at a time.

Those who know Heather speak of her warmth, her wisdom, and her unwavering commitment to equity and excellence. She has guided generations of early childhood professionals toward reflective, heart-led practice—leaving fingerprints not just on classrooms, but on entire communities.

Heather Bailey’s legacy is one of heart, hope, and a steadfast belief in the power of early learning to transform lives. Her influence will echo for generations, carried forward by the children she nurtured, the families she supported, and the educators she inspired.