HISTORY OF NAECTE

NAECTE began in 1977 when a group of 200 early childhood professors met at the annual NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) conference to discuss common issues. The lively discussion resulted in a decision to explore becoming an organization. At the next annual NAEYC conference the group met and approved the name, Association of Early Childhood Teacher Educators. Officers elected were a chairperson, secretary, treasurer, and six regional representatives. In 1980 “National” was added to the organization’s title.

From the outset, each annual meeting included provision for a program with discussion of issues in early childhood teacher education. In 1981, the Governing Board was expanded to include 10 regional representatives, using the U.S. Government Designations for regions. In 1983, NAECTE initiated affiliate groups.

During the early years, the organization published a newsletter. As membership grew, the newsletter became a self-published journal and since the late ‘90s the Journal of Early Childhood Teacher Education has been widely recognized as a leading source for research and practice information in the field. Simultaneously, NAECTE created several annual awards supported by major publishers of educational texts. Groups of members have engaged in Research Networks and in preparing position papers. Past presidents of the organization created the NAECTE Foundation, which raises funds to support research, scholarship, and advocacy. In celebration of NAECTE’s 25th anniversary,  members gathered for a festive reception and presentation of concept papers by three of the organization’s founders.

ORIGINAL NAECTE FOUNDERS

Mary Elizabeth York, First President
Helen Canady
Beth Casey
Michael Davis
Stephanie Feeney
Doris Fromberg
Verna Hildebrand
Marlis Mann
Marjorie Ramsey
Clare Rodney
Judith Schickedanz
Robert Smith
Bernard Spodek
Jeane Sword
Phil Wishon