In June, Council President/CEO Valora Washington was involved in two “good-byes" from her work in Boston. For five years, she worked with elementary school principals in the Boston Public Schools to help them create better environments for 3- to 8-year-olds. In a celebratory dinner attended by the principals and the Boston school superintendent, this work came to its official close. The principals talked about the accomplishments and changes in their schools, which have made them a better place for young learners.

Also, Valora was honored with an “advocacy award for excellence in early education and care in appreciation for your tireless advocacy of high quality, universal early education” at a dinner sponsored by the Children’s Services of Roxbury. About 300 people attended the dinner which included an inspirational keynote address by a business executive who grew up in foster care.