Amy Knupp, Regional Administrator
As was previously announced, Amy Knupp, currently a Regional Administrator with the agency, has been selected as the agency’s next Executive Director of Special Education. Amy will succeed Dr. Mary Stevens, who is retiring effective December 31, 2017.
Amy started with AEA 267 as a team representative and school psychologist. She has also been an adjunct professor for Kirkwood Community College. Earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and family services, a Master of Arts degree in educational psychology, and an Education Specialist degree in school psychology from the University of Northern Iowa, Amy also holds a Director of Special Education endorsement.
We had a chance to talk with Amy and find out a little about her vision for the agency.
What do you believe is our biggest challenge going forward as an agency? The continuation of integrating services throughout all areas within the AEA in the most efficient way possible. Another challenge will be to continue to use the resources we have to provide the best services for our schools, students, and families.
What will the first 100 days of your leadership look like? I will be very busy working with Dr. Mary Stevens to plan for the year! I will also be meeting with stakeholder groups so I can learn all the aspects of the agency…working with Ad Cabinet to develop plans which focus on our agency goals…and meeting with staff/discipline groups to acquire information on current practices and long range plans.
What do you think are our greatest strengths as an agency? Our greatest strength is our employees! We have very dedicated and hard working employees. We also have strong leaders driving our agency with innovative ideas that push the agency forward. All of these entities will lead our agency to excellence!
What do you want people (who haven’t had a chance to work with you previously) to know about you? I am very passionate about student achievement and closing the achievement gap. I like to hear about, and be involved in, innovative practices that lead to increased achievement for all students. I want everyone to know I have an open door policy so everyone is welcome to stop in, introduce yourself and talk with me.
Please join us in congratulating Amy on her new position. We look forward to her leadership!