We are C2C: Community Highlights | Quarter 3 | July 2026

Sandy Simar

Role within C2C:
Co-convenor of the Transition 2 Kindergarten Network since its beginning.

Professional or organizational affiliation outside of C2C:
Head Start Director at Families First of Minnesota.

What have you learned from your time with C2C?
My time with C2C has reinforced the importance of community and parent voice in support of systems for young children and their families. I have also learned that systemic change takes time and patience.

What are your hopes for C2C’s work?
My hope is that the whole community will embrace the urgency of providing quality programming for young children and their families. I also hope everyone understands the importance of the early years in a child’s future – knowing that children’s future success is a shared responsibility with the community, families, programs, and schools. That equitable systemic change will occur to remove barriers to meet individual and program needs.

Amanda Lacek

Role within C2C:
I've been part of the Transition 2 Kindergarten Network since its inception, serving as a co-convener for the first seven years.

Professional or organizational affiliation outside of C2C:
School Readiness Coordinator at Families First of Minnesota.

What have you learned from your time with C2C?
My time with C2C has taught me how much stronger our community becomes when we listen across sectors — schools, nonprofits, families — and build solutions together rather than in silos.

What are your hopes for C2C’s work?
My hope is that C2C continues to make great impacts in our community to support children of all ages to have the support they need to succeed.