Nice to meet you, I'm Amy.

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I’ve called Francis Howell home since sixth grade. Growing up in this community shaped me for a life and career of making a positive impact, and now, as a parent, I’m committed to aiming higher to make FHSD a place where every student can thrive. After graduating from Francis Howell North High School in 1994, I earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Truman State University and a master’s in leadership and organizational development from St. Louis University. Like many of us, I lived outside the district for a few years before coming back to raise my family in the district that helped shape me. My oldest two children are FHN grads now at Mizzou, and my youngest just started sixth grade at Barnwell Middle School. I understand the excitement, the worries, and the hopes we have for our kids’ futures.

Professionally, I’ve spent years in leadership roles, developing and delivering products that benefit and serve the broadest audience - skills that are crucial to the challenges our public schools face today. As a product leader, I’ve learned that a research informed perspective isn’t just a ‘nice-to-have’; it’s essential to building solutions that solve the right problems in the right way. This experience translates directly to our schools. I’ve seen how we can create environments where every student—regardless of abilities, background, or learning style—has the chance to succeed.

For some reason in recent years, valuing "diversity and inclusion" in schools has become controversial, but I can assure you that in the real world, those values aren't just buzzwords; they are at the heart of our corporate mantras, they drive global product strategy, and they belong at the heart of our public schools, because expanding our perspectives beyond our lived experience is powerful. As an example, working alongside people with both visible and invisible disabilities opened my eyes to the importance of web accessibility. Even small changes to website code that most people wouldn't notice, makes a tremendous impact on those who require assistive technology like screen readers.  I know what it takes to break down barriers and create spaces where every child understands they are valued. On the FHSD board, I will use this hands-on experience to advocate for policies that ensure all students get the support they need to succeed. We can, and should, be aiming higher. 

But life isn’t just about work and school. In my personal time, you’ll find me walking my dogs in the mornings while listening to a good audiobook (I just finished Hidden Potential by Adam Grant). Evenings are for family time, catching the latest reality talent shows, or rewatching favorites like Ted Lasso and Schitt’s Creek. I love cheering from the sidelines, catching up with friends, and enjoying a simple weekend at home. If you want to dig a little deeper and are into personality tests, I’m an ESFJ and an Enneagram 3. 

I’m a pragmatic optimist, always aiming higher and bringing positive energy into every space I enter. I’m ready to bring that energy to the FHSD board, working with you to make our schools places where every child is valued and equipped to succeed, and our community stronger and more connected. Together, let’s aim higher.