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Blanton named new executive director of SPS Foundation
SIKESTON — A Sikeston High School graduate and former board of education member will be the new executive director of the Sikeston Public Schools Foundation.
Amy Blanton will assume the role as the Foundation’s executive director beginning June 1 after Lauren DeWitt recently announced she is stepping down from the position.
“I am honored that I was chosen to be the next Foundation executive director,” Blanton said. “I am excited to continue Lauren DeWitt’s great work as well as implement new projects and programs.”
Blanton brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to this position, having recently served as chair of the Foundation Board of Trustees. She served as vice president and president of the Sikeston R-6 Board of Education from 2011-2014.
In addition, Blanton has served on numerous committees such as Better Schools Build Better Communities, Parent Teacher Organizations, and the Sikeston Arts Council Board. She is an active member of Sikeston’s First United Methodist Church as well as her P.E.O. Chapter, serving in various leadership capacities.
Blanton also brings an understanding of school governance to the position and will focus on strengthening relationships with the school district and community as the Foundation continues to grow, the Foundation Board of Trustees said.
“The Foundation is making a difference in the lives of our students and teachers,” Blanton said. "I am looking forward to continuing this work with the help and support of the Foundation Board of Trustees.”
Blanton is married to Dr. Kevin J. Blanton of Sikeston and has four children: Elizabeth 22, Luke 20, Grace 17, and Caroline 12, all have attended or are attending Sikeston R-6 Schools.
A nonprofit organization, the Foundation is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for the students of Sikeston R-6 Schools. In the past two years, the Foundation has awarded $54,327 in classroom teaching grants along with 45 student scholarships totaling $63,500.
The Foundation Board of Trustees said they are thankful for the growth they have seen under DeWitt’s leadership and are excited for the future of the Foundation as Blanton steps into this role.
“This change is a bittersweet one for me,” Lauren DeWitt said. “I have absolutely loved working for the Foundation. I have met so many great people along the way and am looking forward to continuing to build those relationships.”
DeWitt said she’s excited about what lies ahead for the Foundation and the school district.
“Amy Blanton is going to rock at this job,” DeWitt said. “She has so many great ideas; she’s dedicated to the community and our schools, and she is invested. I know she is going to do great things for the Foundation and for Sikeston R-6 Schools. I could not be happier that she will be the new executive director.”