Every year for the past six years, the Fédération des parents has presented the Award of Excellence in Early Childhood Education in British Columbia during the opening evening of its annual conference.

This prestigious award is intended to highlight the contributions of an educator whose work is particularly appreciated in their community.

Audrey Larouche, from the centre Les petits explorateurs de Mer-et-montagne in Campbell River, won the honour for 2015-2016.

According to the parents of this community, Audrey inspires young children with the stimulating environment that she's created and through the activities she offers; but moreover, she gives children the freedom to explore and discover new things. She also shares her love of nature with the children, going out every day in the woods near the school with them, rain or shine.

Audrey distinguished herself because she is able to teach many things to her little explorers, all while letting the children be children.

In the photo we see Shannie Harvey, coordinator of early childhood at the Fédération des parents, handing over the plaque to Anne-Marie Gosselin from the parents' association of l’école Mer-et-montage in Campbell River on behalf of Audrey, who unfortunately couldn't be at the conference to receive the award.

Congratulations, Audrey!