Early education has had a long history in the southern California region. Before the establishment of ACSI as an organization, the California Association of Christian Schools (CACS) began in 1950, which soon developed into the Western Association of Christian Schools (WACS).

(Pictured: top row, Bonnie; bottom row, Eunice and Debbi)

During the early years of the association, Eunice Dirks was hired to service Christian schools primarily in the areas of early education. Eunice served for 18 years through the transitions of CACS, WACS, and ACSI. Eunice’s contributions to ACSI in early education were significant. She was the spokesperson across the country addressing early education issues, along with coordinating the Hawaii Convention, and developing materials to support early education programs. Eunice spent much of her time networking and inspiring professionals in the field.

In 1990, Bonnie Ziebarth became the Early Education Coordinator. For 12 years, Bonnie mentored the area chairmen, conducted the early education conference each year, and developed leaders in southern California. During Bonnie’s tenure, accreditation greatly expanded, and the early Education Conference transitioned from church facilities to a convention center venue.

Upon Bonnie’s retirement in 2002, Debbi Keeler was hired as the Assistant Director of Early Education for Southern California. Debbi has served in early education for 25 years as a teacher, administrator, seminar presenter, and college professor. Debbi has a strong passion for early education programs to be of top quality, along with giving schools the tools they need to be successful. We are grateful for these Early Education leaders, as God has enabled them through specific gifts to meet the needs of Christian preschools.