Karen M. Oliver of South Paris and Teena Hanks of Lewiston have been awarded a Child Development Associate credential in recognition of outstanding work with young children. The credential was awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition in Washington, D.C., which represents the early childhood profession.

CDA is the only major national effort to improve childcare by evaluation and recognizing the skills of individuals providing care. The first credential was awarded 25 years ago, and now 46 states plus the District of Columbia include CDA in their childcare licensing regulations.