06/08/2026
Local Early Childhood Leadership at Elevate Conference
We would like to recognize two outstanding leaders in our local early childhood community who recently attended Nebraska’s Elevate Conference, a statewide event dedicated to advancing excellence in early care and education.
Shannon Stutzman, local family home child care 2 provider and NECC member, and Hailey Phelps, Christ Lutheran Center Director and PLA alumna, attended the conference after first connecting through Platte County’s Rooted in Relationships initiative. Their shared commitment to advocacy, collaboration, and strengthening child care opportunities in our region has helped build meaningful partnerships focused on addressing our local child care desert.
Shannon had the opportunity to serve as a panelist during the session “From Passion to Profession,” where she shared her experiences as a family child care provider. Her message highlighted the importance of ensuring that every child has someone who believes in them and recognizing early childhood educators as respected professionals who are shaping tomorrow’s generation.
Hailey continues to be a strong advocate for early childhood education policy and quality improvement efforts. Her passion for ensuring that every child has access to high-quality early care and education drives her work both locally and across the state.
We are grateful for leaders like Shannon and Hailey who represent our community, advocate for children and families, and elevate the importance of early childhood education.
Please join us in congratulating them on their leadership and continued dedication to Nebraska’s youngest learners! 👏
