This week marked Teacher Appreciation Week across the U.S., and in Washington, one group of educators were treated to a “thank you” party.

Thursday evening, Beaufort-Hyde Partnership for Children hosted a party for early childhood educators across the county. They came to share ideas, along with food, free coupons from local businesses, children’s books and door prizes including jewelry, candles and educational materials, many donated by local businesses. They also came to be recognized for their work.

Early childhood educators are those inspiring the youngest minds — from infants to 5-year-olds — and are on the front lines of making sure each child is given the tools for success later in life, according to BHPC Executive Director Jessica Burnham.

“Our teachers are truly our community’s heroes as they provide new experiences, nurture creativity, and reach out to meet each child at his or her developmental level,” Burnham said.

Early childhood learning is critical in a child’s development, as it ensures children will not be left behind once they get to kindergarten.

More than 100 early childhood educators serve more than 900 children in Beaufort and Hyde counties, building the foundation for future generations of doctors, first responders, electricians, nurses, businesses owners and more. They work in childcare centers and in homes, and part of BHPC’s role is to make sure they have the resources they need to promote learning.

Part of that, is recognizing the importance of their work.

“It’s Teacher Appreciation Week, and we wanted to do something for our early educators. Sometimes it’s easy (for people) to not realize what they do,” Burnham said.