Our Parent Ambassadors program gives parents and child care providers of early learners the tools they need to advocate for meaningful, lasting change in early childhood education policy. In this series, we’re highlighting our inaugural cohort of 2023 Parent Ambassadors. Get to know them!

Sarah Landell

Mother of 2

Preschool Minister at Third City Christian Church

Graduated from UNL with a BA in Education and Human Sciences with a minor in Psychology

Favorite Quote:

“So all of you should live together in peace. Try to understand each other. Love each other like brothers and sisters. Be kind and humble.” 1 Peter 3:8-12

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Sarah Landell. I live in rural Nebraska with my husband Elijah, son Rylan and daughter Elanor. I graduated from UNL with my BA in Education and Human Services and minored in Psychology. I am currently the Preschool Minister at Third City Christian Church in Grand Island. I have spent the past 9 years working alongside Early Childhood Educators, parents and children in my community. Prior to that, I worked and interned at Fort Knox, KY, and Fort McCoy, WI, learning about standards of care in their Child Development Centers, School Aged and Middle School Aged Centers. I am passionate about advocacy, people, and personal growth.

What made you want to become a Parent Ambassador?

I found out about the Parent Ambassador program via social media, and after talking with a friend, she encouraged me to apply! I decided I wanted to join because advocacy and people are two passions of mine. I believe every child deserves access to high-quality care, and I felt this would be a great opportunity to advocate alongside other Nebraska parents. I want to collaboratively work with parents on the importance of centers and family homes in regard to recruiting and retaining Early Childhood Educators. I have great advocacy for long-term retention for teachers, aides and family home providers. The work of an Early Childhood Educator is wonderful and rewarding, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally; however, with low pay and little to no benefits, we see so many great individuals leaving to seek more sustainable employment.

What do you see as the greatest need for your community?

I see our greatest need as retaining and recruiting Early Childhood Educators. With turnover being high, it means less access to high-quality care. We have high-quality centers and home providers but not nearly enough. Access to quality care includes affordability for families, as well.

What do you hope to accomplish during your Ambassadorship? 

I hope to build lasting relationships throughout the state that, in turn, make an impact on our communities for our children, parents, and Early Childhood Educators.

Who or what inspires you?

I find inspiration in a variety of people and things. I would have to say what inspires me the most are the individuals who work diligently to bring the best possible care for our children. Early Childhood Educators help foster wonder and curiosity. They lead, influence and inspire every child and family they build a relationship with.

Anything else you would like to add?

I look forward to building relationships, advocating, learning and being part of the Parent Ambassador Program!