Above, KHSA Executive Director Jennifer Adhima presents Amanda Petersen with the Children's Champion Award during yesterday's APM meeting.

The 2022 State Children's Champion in Kansas is Amanda Petersen, Kansas State Department of of Education Director of Early Childhood.

Every year, the Kansas Head Start Association accepts nominations for state awards in several different categories from Head Start programs across Kansas. These awards recognize the outstanding work of Head Start program staff and community partners. One of these awards is the State Children’s Champion. Individuals are nominated for this award by Head Start Directors across Kansas and members of the Kansas Head Start Association Board of Directors. The State Children’s Champion Award recognition was initiated in an effort to recognize individuals who make valuable contributions to the lives of children and families across their state. The award is designed to recognize and honor individuals who “stand out” for leadership, commitment and service and who ultimately make a difference. This award celebrates the important contributions of an individual or organization that serves as a Champion to Head Start and Early Head Start children and families. We are so fortunate to have a champion like Amanda in Kansas!

Congratulations, Amanda!