Amber Sinamon Named Director of Early Learning graphic

Following a search for talent and experience, the Affton School District Board of Education on Tues., March 1, approved the hiring of Amber Sinamon as Director of Early Learning for Affton Early Childhood and Parents As Teachers programs for the 2022-23 school year.

“With such a commitment to Affton and diverse experience, we are confident that Amber will pour her heart and soul into serving the families involved with the Affton Early Childhood and Parents As Teachers programs,” said Dr. Travis Bracht, superintendent. “As a Class of 2013 Affton graduate with deep ties to our community, Amber’s understanding of our students and families will not only help our programs continuously improve but, more importantly, see our students thrive while bringing rich and meaningful experiences to our youngest learners.”

Sinamon’s experience in school administration includes currently serving her third year as Affton School District’s K-8 Summer School Principal, as well as serving in an educational leadership internship at both Rogers Middle School and Special School District (SSD). 

“I am incredibly excited to continue my journey in Affton. This community and district have helped shaped me into the person that I am today and I am thrilled to have this opportunity,” said Sinamon.  “I look forward to building relationships with families and staff and cannot wait to put in the time to help shape the minds of the earliest learners  in our community.”

In addition to her administrative experience, Sinamon served as a special education teacher with SSD for six years at both Mesnier Primary and Rogers Middle School, as well as varsity softball coach at Affton High School for six seasons. Sinamon has also served Affton Early Childhood as a summer school teacher, at Rogers Middle School as a Summer Journey teacher, and as a before and after care facilitator and substitute teacher for grades Pre-K through 12 in Affton Schools. Sinamon earned a Bachelor of Arts in special education, a Master of Arts in special education for severe developmental disabilities, as well as a specialist degree in educational leadership from Webster University in St. Louis. She is working toward earning a doctorate in educational leadership from Maryville University and anticipates graduating in December 2022.

Sinamon grew up in Affton and attended Affton schools from first grade until graduation. She has been married to her husband, Jeff Pauk (Affton Class of 2012), since 2017, and they have a one-year-old son, Luca. Sinamon enjoys trying out different local restaurants around the St. Louis area, exploring local parks, and spending time with family.

Sinamon will begin serving as Director of Early Learning on July 1. She replaces Lauren Knoll, who announced her retirement earlier this year.