Drs. Ranck and Anderson. Dr. Ranck then served as editor until her untimely death in 2020, at which time Drs. Jerry Aldridge and Grace Jepkemboi Komol became editors.
In an introductory note to the first OPH column, Dr. Ranck noted the importance of understanding the history of early childhood education, including reflecting on the past and considering how views about children’ s development have changed or remained the same. She noted that contributors would offer extraordinary examples to guide early childhood educators. By considering the origins of the field, educators can better understand the present and make greater progress for the future. History is a story of struggle and a source of inspiration. For instance, when we read of Dr. John Dewey’ s struggle to forge a more progressive education or learn of Rachel and Margaret McMillan’ s endeavors to bring kindergarten to London, we read about ourselves because we read about struggle. We also find inspiration and examples of how educators can make a difference in their own communities.
OURPROUDHERITAGE
During the past 15 years, Our Proud Heritage has published articles on the history of people, practices, and programs in early childhood education. Broadly interpreted, improving any sector of our world improves life for children. And so, Our Proud Heritage highlights individuals like Fred Rogers, who harnessed television to connect with children, and those who spurred major initiatives or new approaches in early childhood education, such as nature-based education and family-centered services. It also elevates individuals, such as Dr. Susie Weems Wheeler and Betsey Stockton, who may not be as well-known but still had an important impact on the field. Our Proud Heritage pays homage to all who labor and hope for a good place for children.
Drs. Blythe F. Hinitz, Ed Greene, Sue Bredekamp, and Barbara A. Willer have written this edition of Our Proud Heritage in celebration of NAEYC’ s 100th anniversary. While holding different roles and responsibilities in the field, they have all made major contributions to the profession and to the professionals within it. They have come together to offer this decade-by-decade look back at NAEYC’ s history.
About the Authors
Charlotte Hern, PhD, currently assists at St. David’ s Episcopal School of San Antonio, Texas. Charlotte has taught at three universities; led teacher training for the state, public and private schools, and PBS; and presented at national conferences. She has published in historical and educational journals. charliphd @ gmail. com
Jerry Aldridge, EdD, is professor emeritus at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and co-editor of Our Proud Heritage.
Grace Jepkemboi Komol, PhD, is a professor of early childhood education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Spring 2026 Young Children 19