Following an expansive search for talent and experience, the Affton School District Board of Education on Tues., May 17, approved the hiring of Kelly Klocke as Director of Academic Services for the 2022-2023 school year.
“Kelly comes to us with a passion and desire to impact education that aligns with our mission, vision, core values, and strategic plan. We are excited about bringing her positive energy and collaborative spirit to Affton,” said Dr. Travis Bracht, superintendent. “She brings a depth of experience in a number of areas that include federal programs, curriculum, instruction, and professional development and places a strong value on building relationships that I am confident will benefit our students, teachers, schools, and community.”
Klocke’s experience in school administration includes her role as assistant principal at Bayless Elementary and Federal Programs Coordinator at Bayless School District in St. Louis, Mo., since 2017. In addition, she has served as a district Instructional Coordinator at Bayless for four years prior. Klocke was named the Bayless School District Teacher of the Year and earned an Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award in 2011, and she has presented at numerous regional, state, and national conferences.
“I am beyond grateful and humbled to be joining the Affton School District as Director of Academic Services. The Affton community’s reputation for continuous improvement and innovative practices make this my dream role. I look forward to collaborating with the talented educators in the district to continue the great work already in progress,” said Klocke. “Along with its reputation for rigorous instruction, everyone connected with the district has spoken about the support and strength of the Affton community. I look forward to developing relationships with students, parents, educators, and community members over the next few months as I begin my journey as an Affton Cougar.”
In addition to her administrative experience, Klocke served as a reading specialist and taught first and third grades for eight years. Klocke earned a Bachelor of Science in elementary education and a Master of Elementary Education with special reading certification from the University of Missouri-St. Louis, a Master of Educational Administration, as well as a specialist degree in educational administration from Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau, Mo. She is currently working toward a doctorate in teaching and leadership from Missouri Baptist University in St. Louis, Mo.
Klocke grew up in Poplar Bluff, Mo., where most of her family still resides. She has a five-year-old son, Frankie, who plays hockey in Affton. Aside from her doctoral work and hockey mom duties, Klocke enjoys hiking and spending time with her family and friends.
Ms. Klocke will begin serving as Director of Academic Services on July 1.