Ms. Maxine Booker - Simon became a T.E.A.C.H. D.C. Scholar in 2012. Since then, she has continued to make her mark in early childhood education. Ms. Simon's commitment to her education and her student's education is inspiring. Through the T.E.A.C.H. D.C. Early Childhood® Scholarship Program, Ms. Simon has had the opportunity to “return to school, not once but twice, to achieve higher education.” She earned her associate degree in Early Childhood Education and is a few months away from earning her bachelor’s degree.

Ms. Simon became an early childhood educator after realizing the impact that teachers had on their students. Her goal is to “ensure that my students get off to a good start in their lives and their learning”, and to be an added part of a child's memory when reflecting on their first teachers. Her favorite memory in the classroom is, “teaching my students about my Caribbean culture. I remember teaching them about Soca [Soul Calypso] music and showing them how to dance to the drums and congas. They loved it!” Ms. Simon states that being an early childhood educator has given her a sense of "reward and personal satisfaction."

Ms. Simon is a tremendous supporter and advocate for the T.E.A.C.H. D.C. program. “Being a recipient of the T.E.A.C.H scholarship has allowed me to excel in the field of Early Childhood Education. It gives me job security and the opportunity for advancement." Her favorite aspect of the T.E.A.C.H. D.C. program is the reassurance of obtaining a pay increase in their salary after receiving their degree. Ms. Simon continues to pave the way for future generations. Her advice to T.E.A.C.H. D.C. scholars is, “Trust the T.E.A.C.H Program. If you are working full time, remember to not over exhaust yourself. It is important to pace yourself and remember that your degree-seeking is a process." Educators like Ms. Simon, with their dedication and passion for early childhood education, are great contributors to the field.

National Museum of African American History & Culture presents:

For more information and to download the Joyful ABC Activity Booklets visit:

NBCDI and Too Small to Fail Virtual Read Aloud of HAIR LOVE with Mathew Cherry

This month, T.E.A.C.H. D.C. and City Blossoms partnered to host a training event centered around introducing a garden-based curriculum and resources to early child care centers.

For more information and upcoming events visit:

"Be the one who encourages them to wonder why. Create a space where they have what they need to be successful. Schedule time to allow them to experience that moment when they figure out for themselves how it all works."

-Anonymous