As she leads First 5 FUNdamentals, Kelly Phanco draws from diverse experiences in early care and education. Her early learning experiences began with parenting in a special needs family.  She also operated an in-home child care. After working in the schools as a paraprofessional, she obtained her teaching degree in early childhood education. She also brings with her ten years of experience in nonprofit management, including six years directing education organizations.

On a personal note, Kelly is the mother of three grown children and grandmother to River, who is in the first grade. Whenever possible, she spends week-ends and vacations climbing mountains.