Amanda Spight is a compassionate and dynamic leader dedicated to creating school environments where students, staff, and families feel valued, safe, and supported—both physically and emotionally. Her leadership is rooted in fostering inclusivity and a strong sense of belonging, empowering everyone to bring their best selves to the community. Amanda’s deep love for people shines through in the meaningful relationships she builds, extending far beyond the school walls. She wholeheartedly believes in the transformative power of connection, community, and celebration, ensuring that every individual, from young children to grandparents, experiences these values.

Amanda began her career teaching Special Education at Hillcrest and Gladden Elementary in the Belton School District. As a first-year teacher, she emerged as a leader, modeling instructional strategies and delivering impactful professional development. After three years, Amanda transitioned to administration, becoming the assistant principal at Kentucky Trail Elementary while earning her master’s in administration from the University of Central Missouri. During this time, she embraced Conscious Discipline, shaping her leadership philosophy. In 2014, Amanda co-led the creation of Wilckens STEAM Academy, collaborating with district, building, and community leaders to design the instructional model, enrollment lottery system, and extended calendar for this innovative school. The next year, as Gladden Elementary principal, she guided the community in defining its core values and vision while spearheading school improvement efforts.

In 2018, Amanda returned to her hometown as principal of Sunshine Early Education Center in the Independence School District. Her first year was marked by significant accomplishments, including leading the staff to implement Continuity of Care and achieving a perfect score on the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) accreditation, bringing the school from failing to passing status. In 2020, Amanda was named Assistant Director of Early Education, igniting her passion for supporting other leaders. While in this role, she served on the core team responsible for creating and delivering Cultural Proficiency professional development. Amanda also provided support to building, department, and district leaders, equipping them with strategies to lead with neuroscience in mind, fostering more informed, empathetic, and effective leadership practices. Amanda earned her Specialist in District Leadership and Superintendency from Northwest Missouri State University in the fall of 2021, further solidifying her expertise in educational leadership. During this time, Amanda achieved certification as a Conscious Discipline Certified Instructor, expanding her influence to include supporting leaders internationally.

In 2022, Amanda proudly stepped into the role of principal at Santa Fe Trail Elementary, embracing the chance to lead the Trailblazer community and serve as a legislative representative for the MAESP Kansas City Region. Amanda’s steadfast commitment to developing structures that nourish growth resulted in a 20% boost in attendance and a notable 20% increase in the school’s Annual Performance Report (APR) in the first year. In her second year, the school celebrated transformative milestones: a 43% drop in major discipline incidents, a 59% reduction in suspensions, and another 20% rise in both attendance and APR—testaments to the shared commitment of students, staff, and families.

Amanda takes immense pride in the mutually beneficial relationships she has cultivated within and among the school and community. These partnerships, built on trust and shared purpose, are a testament to her belief that “the magic is in the people.” A shining example of this is the support from local businesses, which have bought out the fall book fair for two consecutive years, ensuring every student not only received a book but also enjoyed the full, joyful shopping experience. This spirit of care and connection embodies Amanda’s leadership and continues to strengthen the Trailblazer community.

Amanda’s personal life is anchored by her loving family. She is deeply grateful for the unwavering support of her husband, Kollin, and finds inspiration in their two sons, Kasen and Kohen. Amanda also treasures the encouragement of her parents, the camaraderie she shares with her siblings, and the warmth of her in-laws, all of whom enrich her life and provide a strong foundation of love and support.