JACKSON, Wyo. — The people who shape a child’s future often do their most meaningful work in the moments that happen every day: a lesson learned, a challenge overcome, or a child who feels seen, supported, and encouraged. On Thursday, Nov. 5, Champions for Children, a celebration hosted by the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole, brought the community together to celebrate the educators who make those moments possible, honoring three exceptional professionals whose dedication is helping shape the next generation of Teton County.
The 2026 Champions for Children Awards were held at The Lupine Room at The Cloudveil, recognizing outstanding early childhood educators and advocates whose work has made a lasting difference in the lives of local children and families.
This year’s awards recognized three individuals whose commitment to early learning, innovation, and the well-being of children exemplifies the impact educators have throughout our community:
- Childhood Champion ($5,000): Oksana Onysko
- Elite Educator ($2,500): Adrienne Coca
- Elite Educator ($2,500): Wendy Williams
Each recipient was nominated by members of the community who have witnessed firsthand the difference their work makes. The nominations offered a meaningful glimpse into the dedication, compassion, and expertise that often go beyond the responsibilities of a traditional educator.
Oksana Onysko
Oksana Onysko, this year’s Childhood Champion recipient, was recognized for her exceptional contributions to children and early childhood education. The Childhood Champion Award celebrates individuals whose leadership and dedication create meaningful opportunities and lasting impact for young children and the families who depend on them.
In her nomination, Nicole Morrison described Onysko’s ability to recognize each child’s individuality and help them develop confidence in themselves.
“Oksana’s superpower is that she sees every child completely, and then helps them see themselves that way too,” Morrison shared. “Our family will be grateful for her for the rest of our lives. In Parker’s story, she will always be a hero. She is the teacher every child deserves.”
Adrienne Coca
Adrienne Coca, an Elite Educator recipient, was honored for her commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences and supporting the development of the children in her care. Her $2,500 award recognizes the extraordinary influence educators have in building strong foundations for lifelong learning.
Alex Goe, who nominated Coca, highlighted the lasting relationships she builds with her students, noting that her influence extends well beyond the preschool classroom.
“That is the true measure of her impact; that these big kids not only remember Ms. Adrienne from their preschool years, but want to continue their relationship with her,” Goe shared.
Wendy Williams
Wendy Williams, also an Elite Educator recipient, was celebrated for the dedication and care she brings to her work with children and families. Her recognition reflects the importance of educators who consistently show up for their students, nurture their potential, and strengthen the early learning community.
Mary Beth Mason, who nominated Williams, emphasized the positive influence she has on both her colleagues and the families she serves.
“She has a gift for making the people around her better, and most importantly, she consistently keeps children and families at the center of her work,” Mason shared.
“Early childhood educators are among the most important people in a child’s life, yet the significance of their work can often go unseen,” said Colby Mitchell, Backbone Leader of Expanded Learning Collective, an initiative of the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole. “These awards give our community an opportunity to recognize the people who are shaping our children’s futures every single day. Celebrating these individuals is also a reminder of how much we have to gain when we invest in the people who care for and educate our youngest community members.”
The Champions for Children Awards are part of a broader effort to elevate the importance of early childhood education in Teton County. Access to quality early learning opportunities depends on a strong, supported workforce, and recognizing exceptional educators is one way the community can demonstrate its commitment to the children and families who call this valley home.
Originally founded through a collaboration between Children’s Learning Center, Jackson Hole Children’s Museum, and Teton Literacy Center, Champions for Children has grown into a community-wide initiative dedicated to uplifting early learning professionals through recognition, resources, and advocacy.
The initiative is managed under Expanded Learning Collective, an initiative of the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole, and works alongside local partners to strengthen opportunities for children and families throughout Teton County.
For more information about Champions for Children, its award recipients, and its ongoing work to support early childhood education, visit www.championsforchildrenjh.com or contact Colby Mitchell at cmitchell@cfjacksonhole.org.
