Betty Bash, founder of Town and Country Day School in Norco, Riverside County, has been recognized as the First 5 Riverside County Children and Families Commission 2023 Champion for Children. The prestigious honor acknowledges her tireless contributions to early childhood education and dedication to shaping young minds according to the Riverside County news release.
Bash founded the Town and Country Day School in 1961 with a sharp focus on offering quality education, not just supervision, during key early development years. Her innovative approach predated widespread adoption of quality education standards, like California's Head Start program. On top of that, Bash navigated the era's banking challenges that often prevented women from entrepreneurship.
Continuing to work without the intention of quitting, Bash remains an active advocate for early education within Riverside County. Aside from her regular work at Town and Country Day School, she founded the Inland Empire Preschool Association to aid emerging childcare centers in attaining licenses. Not just stopping at paperwork, she also designs preschool programs and crafts learning-friendly playgrounds for these centers.
Her steadfast commitment to children's welfare and development led to her recognition by the First 5 Riverside County Commission at a meeting on October 25 honoring her efforts. While receiving the honor, she appreciated the partnership between First 5 Riverside County and Town and Country Day School, which has supported staff training and allowed collaborations with other childcare business owners. "Anything that we have achieved is shared with First 5," expressed Bash gratefully.
Bash, upon receiving the Champion for Children award, wasn't just personally recognized but also granted funding of $1,000 to organize a community event of her choice. This award represents yet another investment in the wellbeing and future success of Riverside County's children.
