Biography
Jana Boddy is a lifelong early childhood educator and advocate for young children, families and educators. After 25 years of preschool and child care center leadership, Jana stepped into the role as a public school Kindergarten classroom educator. Jana earned a degree in Early Childhood Studies from Walden University (Summa cum laude). In addition to leadership and education roles, Jana is an Ambassador and Professional Development Specialist for The Council of Professional Recognition (CDA), a member of MDAEYC public policy team, a member of Fred Rogers Educators Network Alumni and a member for Abilities Network Project Act advisory board. Jana was selected as a member of the first Regional Fellowship Advocacy cohort representing MDAEYC and the recipient of the Lasting Legacy Scholarship in 2022. Jana was featured in NAEYC Young Children educational journal in the Fall 2024. Jana was selected for the first Inclusive Leadership Development cohort through the Abilities Network in Baltimore, MD, Maryland State Education Association (MSEA) Women in leadership cohort and Maryland Early Childhood Leadership Program (MECLP) through the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
Jana began her career in Early Childhood Education in 1997 and has held various positions as an infant educator, preschool teacher, public school educator, director and mentor. She managed early childhood programs in a private setting and a nonprofit child care center at a shelter for children and families experiencing homelessness. Jana currently teaches professional development through her current school district and has shared her knowledge with various panels through NAEYC, Peace of Mind Inc. and her local school district in Anne Arundel County Maryland. Jana advocates on a local, state and national level through organizations such as NAEYC, MDAEYC and local early childhood coalitions and collaborations.
Jana has an adult daughter who studies and works in international affairs. Jana enjoys traveling, dancing on an adult hip-hop competitive team, attending professional development for educators and inclusion, and volunteering her time with her local teachers union.