Edward Jost Legacy Award

We are pleased to present Justin West with an Edward Jost Legacy Award! The advocacy, drive and dedication that he brings to the field is admirable and we are so thankful to have him in our corner as a colleague, mentor and friend!

Justin West has dedicated over two decades to shaping the future of learning in the field of early childhood education. As the lead instructor for the Africentric Early Childhood Education (ECE) program at Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC), he has made a significant impact on the representation and inclusion of African Nova Scotians in this vital field.

Background: Justin West is an influential educator who believes in the power of diversity and representation in early childhood education. He recognizes the importance of creating an inclusive environment for African Nova Scotian children.

Professional Roles:

o Lead Instructor: Justin serves as the lead instructor for the Africentric ECE program at NSCC. This unique program is taught exclusively by respected African Nova Scotian educators.

o Board Member: He is also a board member of the Association of Early Childhood Education in Nova Scotia.

o Committee Member: Justin actively contributes to the Africentric ECE diploma program.

Impact and Commitment:

o Justin’s commitment to empowering students and fostering representation underscores the importance of his work in the field of early childhood education.

o His efforts aim to address the underrepresentation of African Nova Scotians in the ECE field, ensuring that they have access to exciting career opportunities.

Awards:

o In 2013, Justin West received the Prime Minister’s Award for Early Learning and Care for best practices.

o He also won the Early Learning and Care award for best practice in Nova Scotia the same year.

Justin West’s dedication to diversity, inclusion, and excellence in early childhood education continues to make a lasting impact on the field and the lives of young learners. Additionally, he has hosted workshops for early childhood educators and co-written articles in Young Children’s magazine and Outdoor Play magazine.

Thank you for all you do Justin!