30 Aug Preschool Teacher Recognized with President’s Susten Award for an Individual

Annual award recognizes Inga garcia for her work with Clare Swan Early Learning Center’s first preschool class

Each year, CITC designates one employee to receive the Susten Individual Award, a recognition of one person’s embodiment of the organization’s mission and values. The recipient of the 2024 Individual Susten award was Inga Garcia, a preschool teacher at the Clare Swan Early Learning Center (CSELC).

“At CITC, breaking trail embodies the spirit of forging ahead, pushing through obstacles, and relentlessly pursuing excellence. Inga, our first-ever preschool teacher at CSELC, exemplifies these values in every aspect of her work,” wrote Marianne Fanger, CSELC director, in her nomination of Inga.

As CSELC’s very first preschool teacher, Inga built the new preschool program, which bridges the one-year gap not covered by CSELC’s childcare (provided for children ages six months to three years) or kindergarten.

“She faced the challenges of establishing the program with determination and adaptability, continuously seeking innovative solutions to create a safe and nurturing space for her students,” Marianne wrote.

Inga is known among her colleagues as someone who cultivates an inclusive environment where every voice is heard and valued. Her respectful interactions with students, parents, and colleagues build strong, positive relationships that are essential for the success of the preschool.

In addition to being a central figure in the new preschool program, Inga has played a pivotal role in integrating CSELC’s first Elder Mentor into the classroom. A new partnership with RurAL CAP, the CSELC Elder Mentor program hopes to enrich the lives of children through access to cultural values and social connection. Elders who spend time with the children read to them, play games, do crafts—and provide a special connection not all Anchorage children may have access to.

“It brings a different dynamic, having an Elder come in, versus just having the teachers around,” Inga said of the program. “Somebody in their senior years, they often have more patience and experience under their belt from raising their own children. They bring a different perspective.”

Inga also mentored two candidates in her classroom to obtain their Child Development Associates, demonstrating her commitment to professional growth and support within her team.

“We proudly nominate Inga for the President’s Susten Award, confident that her contributions reflect the highest ideals of CITC’s mission and values,” Marianne wrote. “By honoring Inga with this award, we celebrate her extraordinary efforts and set a standard for excellence that will inspire and motivate others for years to come. Her work has laid a strong foundation for the future of our preschool program and continues to support our community’s youngest members in reaching their full potential.”

Congratulations, Inga!