2025 Little Sunshine’s Playhouse National Teacher of the Year

At Little Sunshine’s Playhouse, we often talk about the magic that happens in our classrooms, the small, meaningful moments that quietly shape a child’s world. But every so often, we get the chance to pause and celebrate the people behind that magic in a bigger way.

This year, that celebration belongs to someone truly extraordinary.

We are overjoyed to honor Ms. Irene of Little Sunshine’s Playhouse of Lakeway as our National Teacher of the Year.

Where Ms. Irene Shines

Ms. Irene spends her days with our very youngest learners, tiny babies just three to four months old, at the very beginning of their journeys.

At this age, learning doesn’t look like elaborate activities or group projects. It looks like connection. It looks like trust. It looks like a gentle voice, a comforting presence, and a caregiver who understands that even the smallest interactions matter.

And that’s where Ms. Irene shines.

With a calm, nurturing spirit and an intuitive understanding of infant care, she creates an environment where babies feel safe, seen, and deeply cared for. In her classroom, every coo and every sleepy smile is met with warmth and intention.

A Moment She’ll Never Forget

When Ms. Irene was surprised with the news, she was overcome with emotion.

Not out of surprise alone, but out of the deep love and pride she feels for her work, her students, and her school community. It was a moment that perfectly captured who she is, someone who gives her whole heart to what she does.

And she wasn’t alone in that moment.

Her wife, who came straight from an overnight shift as a police officer, stood proudly beside her to celebrate. Families of children she has cared for shared in the joy, a testament to the lasting impact she has made in their lives.

Behind the scenes, the teachers and leadership team at our Lakeway school worked quietly to keep the entire celebration a surprise. Their efforts made the moment even more meaningful, allowing Ms. Irene to truly feel the love surrounding her.

Recognized for Excellence

Ms. Irene was selected for this national honor based on a portfolio of her classroom work, materials and documentation that reflected not only her skill, but her heart.

Her submission stood out among a select group of educators across the Little Sunshine’s family. It showcased thoughtful care, intentional interactions, and a deep understanding of how even the youngest children learn and grow.

Her work is a beautiful reflection of what high-quality early childhood education can look like, especially in those earliest, most important months of life.

A Well-Deserved Celebration

As part of this recognition, Ms. Irene received a well-earned reward: a trip of her choosing, complete with vacation days and a few special goodies.

It’s a small way to say thank you for the immeasurable impact she makes each day.

With Gratitude

Moments like this remind us that it truly takes a village.

To Ms. Irene: Thank you for the love, care, and intention you bring into your classroom every single day.

To her wife: Thank you for showing up, supporting her, and celebrating this moment after a long night of service.

To the families who continue to cherish her: Thank you for trusting us with your little ones and for recognizing the difference she makes.

And to the Lakeway team, especially Autumn York, Program Director, and Raquel Urdiales, Assistant Director: Thank you for creating a community where educators like Ms. Irene can shine so brightly.

At Little Sunshine’s Playhouse, we believe that the earliest years matter deeply. And because of educators like Ms. Irene, those years are filled with warmth, connection, and the kind of care that stays with children for a lifetime.