4th FW names FCC provider of the year

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Aubrey Robinson
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  One of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base's most accredited family child care providers was chosen as the 4th Fighter Wing Family Child Care provider of the year.

Toni Phaneuf, FCC provider of the year recipient, also recently completed all qualifications necessary to receive the highest rated home child care provider license available in North Carolina.

"I'm very proud of myself," said Phaneuf, FCC home provider and spouse of retired Tech. Sgt. Gary Phaneuf. "I try to be responsible and act as an example for other providers."

She was chosen based on letters of recommendation from parents and her college professors in addition to her ability to continuously meet U.S. Air Force and state home child care provider standards. Another factor leading to Phaneuf earning the award is her continuous drive to go above and beyond the call of duty to contribute to the FCC's mission of offering military members and Department of Defense civilians with an alternate child care option.

"Phaneuf is awesome and one of our top mentors," said Cristy Barnes, 4th Force Support Squadron family child care coordinator. "Ten out of ten new (FCC) homes are set up and ready for children thanks to her assistance."

Another feature that assisted in her selection as provider of the year was Phaneuf's constant dedication to receive her five-star North Carolina home child care provider license.

According to the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education, the Division of Child Development began issuing star rated licenses to eligible child care centers and family child care homes in order to offer parents more information about the quality of care provided. Facilities can receive a one to five star rating comprised of their scores in education and program standards, as regulated by the DCC.

"I have been preparing for several years but couldn't have gotten to the top without (taking) the small steps the base greatly helped me with," Phaneuf said. "I do my job to the best of my ability whether I am recognized for it or not."

For more information about FCC, contact the Airmen & Family Readiness Center at 919-722-7194 or the Child Development Center at 919-722-1199.