This feature was printed in the April 2026 issue of ‘hood Magazine. To see this article in print, check out our digital issue of ‘hood!
Click the link to read all of this year’s nominations for Childcare/Preschool Provider of the Year.
2026 Educator of the year is Presented by: The Bancorp, Sanford fit, and Vanessa Jo Photography
Joseph Thompson
Preschool/Junior Kindergarten Teacher
The Cubhouse at Copper Creek
Choosing who to partner with for your child’s early education is an important decision for families. Finding someone who not only cares for your child but intentionally helps shape their character, confidence, and independence is a true gift. Here at the ’hood Magazine, we know how vital early educators are to our community, and we are honored, along with our generous sponsors, The Bancorp, Sanford fit, and Vanessa Jo Photography, to announce our 2026 Childcare Provider of the Year, Joseph Thompson!
Joseph teaches five-year-olds at The Cub House at Copper Creek and has dedicated years to early education. For him, it’s not just a career path, but a calling.
A Calling
He felt drawn to working with children because of the opportunity to be a steady, positive presence in their lives. “Not every child has consistency everywhere they go,” he explains. “If I can be that safe, encouraging adult who believes in them no matter what kind of day they’re having, that means something.”
“My favorite part is honestly the relationships,” he says. “The big emotions, the belly laughs, the random stories that make absolutely no sense but somehow mean everything. When a child trusts you enough to run up for a hug or tell you about their weekend like you’re the most important person in the room… that’s hard to beat.”
2026 Childcare/Preschool Provider of the Year
When surprised with the 2026 Childcare/Preschool Provider of the Year award, Joseph described the moment as incredibly humbling.
“Early childhood education isn’t always the most recognized field,” he says. “To have it celebrated like this means a lot.”
Presented to Mr. Joe during the surprise was a basket filled with sensory items from Sanford fit. These items were quickly enjoyed by the kids!
He is quick to share the honor. “This award belongs to my classroom families who trust me with their children. It belongs to my coworkers who support and encourage me. And it definitely belongs to the kids, they’re the reason I get to do what I love every day.”
Joseph is passionate about helping others understand the depth of what childcare providers truly do. “We’re educators,” he explains. “What we do is intentional and purposeful. Every circle time, every transition, every redirection, it all has meaning behind it. We’re teaching social skills, emotional regulation, problem-solving, independence, and kindness. We’re laying the groundwork for how children handle frustration, build friendships, and grow in confidence.”
That dedication and heart is exactly why we are so proud to name Joseph Thompson our 2026 Preschool/Childcare Provider of the Year.
Winning Nominations
Joe has been incredible for our son, Arkin. The amount of growth that we have seen in the 6 months has far surpassed what he was accomplishing before getting to Joe’s classroom. Not only has he made strides educationally but socially and physically as well. Joe’s lesson plans cover every subject and are always engaging for the students.Probably the highest praise I can give Mr Joe, is that Arkin loves going to daycare and is constantly talking about how great Mr. Joe is.
-Logan (Dad) and Arkin
Joe has been very good with my daughter. Just the little things make all the difference in the world.
-Lori (Mom) and Emma
When my son started Jr Kindergarten at The Cubhouse, he was very timid and tearful as he had been at an in-home daycare up until then. Mr. Joe, as the kids call him, was the main reason my son opened up, and a few months into the school year, he was loving school. He has learned so much. Mr. Joe’s passion for teaching and caring for children is evident as he puts his heart and soul into his work.
Jessica (Mom) and Bennett
Thanks Again to our Sponsors
