The Escambia County Public Schools Foundation to announced the selection of Kristie Kelley as its new executive director. Kelley served on the ECPS Foundation Board for the past seven years and held numerous positions, including Board Chair from 2017-2018.
“I am so excited about giving back to my community as a native of Pensacola and product of Escambia County public schools myself,” said Kelley in the press release.
Her support of Escambia County’s public schools began over 22 years ago as a science teacher at Pine Forest High. After transitioning to Gulf Power as a chemist, Kelley volunteered to teach “I Love Science” labs to fifth grade students. She also was involved her employer’s sponsorship of the Gulf Power Academy and partnership with the Workforce Education department.
“During my career, I visited schools and saw the dedication of the teachers and the excitement of their students when someone was able to bring additional experiential learning activities into the classroom,†she said. “This involvement drove my interest in serving on the Foundation’s Board and growing programs such as the Foundation’s annual Grants for Excellence.”
She added, “I also have two sons attending our local public schools and it’s critical to me that our District is maximizing and growing available resources. I’m proud to serve as the Executive Director of the Foundation, and look forward to working with board members, and fostering collaboration across our community.”
The Foundation’s Board of Directors is comprised of 24 volunteer community leaders and professionals. The board strives to increase opportunities and improve outcomes for children in our School District and to ensure that students graduate on time and are college or career ready. Since 1986, over $12.5 million dollars has been raised and distributed help reach these goals.