A few weeks ago, four of our Ardmore Baptist Preschool teachers led by our Preschool Director, Julie Sugg, attended the North American Reggio Emilia Alliance (NAREA) Conference. NAREA brings together early-childhood educators who are inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach. This approach is an educational philosophy that began in Reggio Emilia, Italy, and views children as capable, curious learners who discover the world through relationships, careful observation, creative expression, play, and hands-on exploration. Teachers listen closely to children’s questions and ideas, then create meaningful learning experiences that help each child wonder, investigate, communicate, and grow.
NAREA Conference
Summer, 2026- Winooksi, Vermont
Julie Sugg, Jess Tankersley, Gracie Hughes, Maddie Edwards, Dana Marx
Our study group was blessed by our opportunity to attend the NAREA Conference in June, 2026. Our group was made up of two administrators, one school-wide assistant, one classroom assistant and one Toddler class lead teacher. We were reminded that every person on our team adds value in each role they hold. The lectures by the Italians shared project work that was very relatable to Americans. We had many “Ah Ha” moments and found a renewed sense of JOY for the important work that we do. This upcoming school year, we will focus our work on the role of the teacher as observer, listening closely to children and their thoughts about the world around them. How can they share and express their ideas? How are we as a community welcoming families and including them? How is each person represented in our school? What is documentation and how and why is important in our approach? Is our school a place of Joy where children are free to wonder and be heard? Are we asking open-ended questions and providing an intentional rich environment? As usual, we left with more questions than we came and we know we continue to grow. We are so thankful for the time of exchange with each other and other educators from around the United States.
We are grateful for Julie, Jess, Gracie, Maddie, Dana, and all our Preschool teachers and staff and for the enthusiasm, insight, and renewed sense of joy they brought home from this experience. Their commitment to listening to children, welcoming families, creating rich learning environments, and continually growing as educators is one of the many reasons our Preschool continues to thrive. Through this ministry, children are known, valued, encouraged, and surrounded by a loving community during some of their most important years of development. We invite you to continue praying for our Preschool children, families, teachers, assistants, and administrators—and to continue supporting this vital ministry as it nurtures young lives and serves families throughout our community.
Rev. Dr. Gina Brock
