“Seeing my students learn and grow inspires me to deepen my learning and growth. Their progress fuels my passion for continuous improvement.”

The ECECD Scholarship has been transformative in Ralynne Benally’s journey in early childhood education. Relieved from the financial burden of pursuing higher education, she has been able to focus on her passion for teaching without the stress of out-of-pocket expenses.

This scholarship has been pivotal in her academic and professional growth. It allowed Ralynne to immerse herself in her studies and directly apply her knowledge in the classroom. One notable achievement was mentoring a student teacher, where she demonstrated the practical application of her coursework, enriching her teaching methods and enhancing the quality and inclusivity of her lessons.

This fall, Ralynne begins her Ph.D. program in Curriculum and Instruction at New Mexico State University. The scholarship remains a vital resource in her educational journey, enabling her to advocate for inclusive practices and enhance her teaching to ensure every child feels welcomed and supported. Looking ahead, she is committed to making a lasting impact in early childhood education.

Ralynne’s dedication to her field is evident in her ongoing efforts to educate herself and others. She recently taught a course to future early childhood educators, passing on her knowledge and passion. The ECECD Scholarship has helped her achieve her academic goals and empowered her to inspire and guide the next generation of teachers, profoundly impacting the future of early childhood education.

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