Biography

Jana Boddy is a lifelong early childhood educator, advocate, and leader with nearly 30 years of experience supporting young children, families, and educators. Beginning her career in 1997, Jana has served as an infant and toddler teacher, preschool educator, Kindergarten teacher, center director, mentor, and community leader in private, nonprofit, and public education settings.

Jana earned her degree in Early Childhood Studies from Walden University (Summa Cum Laude) and currently serves as the Early Childhood Liaison for the Sudlersville Elementary School Judy Center in Queen Anne’s County Public Schools, Maryland. She is the Secretary of MDAEYC, serves on the NAEYC Affiliate Advisory Council, and is a Professional Development Specialist for the Council for Professional Recognition.

A passionate advocate for play, inclusion, and family engagement, Jana has represented educators at the local, state, and national levels through organizations including NAEYC and MDAEYC. She is a recipient of the NAEYC Lasting Legacy Scholarship, a member of the inaugural Regional Advocacy Fellowship, and an alumna of the Abilities Network Inclusive Leadership Development Cohort, MSEA Women in Leadership Cohort, and the Maryland Early Childhood Leadership Program (MECLP). Her work has been featured in NAEYC's Young Children journal, local news media outlets and she has presented on panels and national conferences focused on early childhood advocacy, leadership, and play. Jana has also been featured through the Fred Rogers Educators' Neighborhood Symposium Series, sharing her expertise on the importance of risky play in children's development.

When she isn't championing early childhood education, Jana enjoys traveling, dancing on an adult competitive hip-hop team, and spending time with her daughter, who works in international affairs.