Excel by Eight (E8) has added Beth Tody as regional coordinator to support families, educators, health professionals, and other community members in Sevier County on the design and implementation of a local plan for improving health and education outcomes for children in the area.
“Beth has been instrumental in E8’s work for three years, serving as a lead Family Advisor and as a vital member of the Sevier County steering committee,” said Jessi Rice Woods, communities manager for Excel by Eight. “Her experience in and passion for relationship building, community engagement, and early childhood development will help us support this community as they work together to become a local model for change.”
Prior to her role with E8, Beth implemented the Early Steps to School Success program at Horatio Elementary to promote early learning for children from birth to age 5. She also has extensive experience in collaboration and relationship management, working as a director for Lindsey Management for more than 18 years and volunteering for organizations such as the Sevier County 4-H Foundation, the Sevier County Chamber of Commerce, the Sevier County Single Parent Scholarship Committee, and Horatio Elementary School’s “Reach Out & Restore” Food Backpack Program.
As a member of Excel by Eight’s Sevier County steering committee, Beth has been instrumental in helping the town of Horatio raise funds to redevelop its park and recreation spaces to promote improved physical health, social and emotional development, and kindergarten readiness among young children.
About Excel by Eight
Excel by Eight is a collaborative effort of more than 30 partner organizations focused on increasing Arkansas children’s health and education outcomes. It is committed to strengthening resource grids statewide by building local models for change; identifying and resolving policy barriers; and enhancing public understanding of early childhood development.