Anita Shelton, a seasoned parent educator at the Caring for Kids Parents as Teachers program in Cape May County, was recently bestowed the prestigious Parent Educator of the Year Award during the 2024 Parents as Teachers International Conference held in San Diego. This honor highlights her unwavering commitment to uplifting vulnerable families and promoting early childhood development.
The four-day conference, centered around the theme “Born to Learn—Power of the Past—Building for the Future,” served as a vital forum for discussing parent engagement and the latest trends in early childhood education.
Receiving this award was more than just recognition; Shelton was also awarded complimentary registration, round-trip travel, and lodging for the conference. She expressed her heartfelt gratitude, stating that nothing drives her passion more than seeing parents grow in confidence and skill.
“I am truly honored by this recognition, “she said. Being a parent educator transcends a job; it’s about fostering meaningful change in our communities. I want to thank Parents as Teachers and my team of devoted caretakers for honoring me with this award.”
Caring for Kids, an affiliate of Parents as Teachers, has been celebrated for pioneering efforts to address New Jersey communities’ food insecurities. Their innovative “Operation of a Choice Food Pantry” has significantly reduced food insecurity in their neighborhood.
Parents as Teachers is an impactful international program that brings together parents and skilled, trained professionals known as Parent Educators. These educators provide essential support through regular home visits during a child’s formative years, laying a solid foundation for early childhood education and parenting skills.
Constance Gully, president and CEO of Parents as Teachers, commended Shelton’s relentless dedication: “Anita’s tireless efforts empower children to realize their full potential. Her passion for helping families establish strong foundations is inspiring, and we are delighted to honor her with this award.”
With 15 years of committed service as a parent educator at Caring for Kids and 30 years working with families, Shelton is renowned for her outstanding commitment and expertise. Her compassionate, culturally sensitive approach fosters trusting relationships, allowing her to provide crucial guidance and support to families. Shelton is active in community initiatives, workshops, and outreach programs highlighting her unwavering advocacy for family empowerment. She currently resides in Whitesboro, New Jersey, with her family.
About Parents as Teachers:
Parents as Teachers transforms communities by nurturing thriving families and ensuring children are healthy, safe, and engaged in learning. This program matches parents and caregivers with trained professionals who conduct regular home visits during a child’s critical early years, from pregnancy through kindergarten. Backed by 40 years of research and proven outcomes, Parents as Teachers serves nearly 180,000 families across all 50 U.S. states, 115 Tribal organizations, six other countries, and one U.S. territory. The Parents as Teachers National Center, Inc. is a non-profit organization based in St. Louis, Missouri.