An exemplary instructor, an outstanding role model and a true leader in the field of early learning and care - these are just some of ways current and former colleagues describe Toni Hoyland.

An instructor and program leader for the Early Learning and Care Diploma program at Camosun College, Hoyland was honoured with a lifetime achievement award from Minister of Children and Family Development Stephanie Cadieux today as part of the 2014 Child Care Awards of Excellence.

Nominated by colleagues and former students at Camosun College, Hoyland has been an educator, administrator and caregiver in the early childhood field for 40 years. From her role as director for a child-care centre in Nelson, to an instructor at Selkirk and Camosun colleges, Hoyland has dedicated much of her life to enriching the lives of children and families.

During her time in Nelson, she helped many families who had children with special needs by developing and leading parent-education sessions advocating for inclusion, particularly in helping children to transition to the school system.

The Awards of Excellence are being presented to 15 individuals and representatives throughout the province who, like Hoyland, have demonstrated outstanding service to children and families. The awards recognize the exceptional contributions made by early childhood educators, licensed family child-care providers, organizations and local governments throughout B.C.

(flickr.com)

Quotes:

Stephanie Cadieux, Minister of Children and Family Development -

“Toni epitomizes what the lifetime achievement award is all about, and she deserves our thanks and this special recognition. The compassion and commitment she brings to her job is a big part of what makes Toni one of this year’s outstanding child-care providers - and her commitment to quality child care in B.C. has been making a difference in the lives of children and families, students and faculty for decades.”

Toni Hoyland, program leader, Early Learning and Care Diploma program, Camosun College -

“I am delighted to be selected for the Award of Excellence for Lifetime Achievement after 40 years in the ECE Field. I think about all of the wonderful, passionate and creative early childhood educators that I have worked with over the years and recognize that whatever I have accomplished, I have done so in collaboration with many others.”

“I am passionate about the value of the work of early childhood educators and how essential it is in supporting children to reach their potential and supporting families and communities to thrive. I believe that the work of ECEs is important to everyone’s future!”

Joan Astren, a/chair, Department of Community, Family & Child Studies, Camosun College -

“Toni embodies the values and beliefs of our profession. Respectful engagement with every child, in addition to acknowledging the importance of family, is paramount in this field. Toni has always been a strong advocate for children, families and educators.”

Quick Facts:

• There are approximately 5,000 licensed child-care facilities in communities in B.C.
• Throughout the province, there are close to 15,000 early childhood educators and more than 5,000 early childhood educator assistants.
• The Ministry of Children and Family Development will invest $292 million on child care in 2014-15, a 38% increase since 2000-01.
• Approximately 104,000 licensed child-care spaces are funded in communities around the province.
• Through the B.C. Early Years Strategy, the ministry is investing $32 million over the next two years to create up to 2,000 new licensed child-care spaces throughout the province, with the goal of opening up to 13,000 new spaces over the next eight years.
• To make child care more affordable for families, government is introducing the BC Early Childhood Tax Benefit starting in 2015. The benefit will provide $146 million annually to approximately 180,000 families with children under the age of six years (up to $660 a year per child).

Learn More:

For more information about the 2014 B.C. Child Care Awards of Excellence, visit: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/childcare/awards/index.htm

Media Contacts:

Sheldon Johnson
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639