Knowledge Universe, the nation’s leading provider of early childhood education and care, is proud to announce the winners of the 2012 Knowledge Universe Early Childhood Educator Awards.  These awards honor early childhood education professionals dedicated to excellence in the classroom, while celebrating the important contribution of educators in the development of young children.  Nominated and evaluated by their colleagues for demonstrating exceptional skills in teaching techniques, student interaction, family communication, classroom design and health and safety practices, the five award winners are chosen from over 40,000 early childhood educators from KinderCare Learning Centers, Knowledge Beginnings, and CCLC. The winners are notified through a surprise, on-site celebration, culminating with the presentation of a check for $10,000 and local media coverage. Each award winner will be flown to the 2012 NAEYC convention in Atlanta where they will receive national recognition at a dinner in their honor!