First and Last Name:  Amanda Kelm

Hometown: Fond du Lac, WI

What Brought you to Fond du Lac: I was born and raised in Fond du Lac 🙂

Place of Employment and Position: Fond du Lac School District – Sabish Middle School Assistant Principal 

What do you enjoy the most about your career?
Making a positive impact on the children in my community has always been a core value of mine. I find joy in building meaningful connections with both students and staff, and in fostering an environment where everyone feels supported, challenged, and empowered. My purpose is to inspire growth in others, and I’m fortunate to live that out every day in my role. There’s nothing more rewarding than helping people navigate challenges, recognize their progress, and grow in confidence—not just as learners, but as individuals.

What words of wisdom would you share with other YP’s in relation to career building?
The two key elements in building a successful career are embracing change and being transparent. Change can be scary but it is essential for personal and professional growth. Nothing great comes from staying in place. Building a meaningful career is about choosing growth over comfort and focusing on making a positive impact on the people around you. It’s okay to not know things but being open and honest is the best way to build trust. Being transparent promotes accountability and strengthens relationships in the workplace. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Seek to understand and be an intentional listener.

Who or what inspires and motivates you to be your best?
My family and my relationships are big motivators for me. Knowing that I have people who believe in me and support me pushes me to show up as my best self each day. Their encouragement, love, and belief in my potential motivate me to work hard, lead with purpose, and make a positive impact in everything I do. I want to make them proud and give back the same support they’ve always given me.

What are 3 Characteristics and/or Strengths that make you who you are?
Enthusiasm, Communication, and Building Relationships are at the core of who I am. I bring positive energy to what I do, and I love connecting with people. I’m a strong communicator—I enjoy having real conversations, listening to others, and making sure people feel heard. Building relationships comes naturally to me, and it’s what helps me create a sense of trust and teamwork wherever I go. Whether it’s with students, colleagues, or families, I work to create trust, mutual respect, and a sense of belonging. These things all work together to help me be my best and bring out the best in others. 

What is your favorite thing to do in your free time/a hobby you enjoy?
What I love most is spending time with my family. My husband, Matt, and I have four kids who definitely keep life busy. Watching Charlie (8), Mason (7), Cooper (4), and Leo (2) grow, learn new things, and play the sports they love are the moments that fill my bucket and bring me joy.

Name something you enjoy doing in the Greater Fond du Lac Area that others should check out:
We love spending time at the Downtown Fond du Lac Night Market during the summer. It’s a free, family-friendly event which is perfect for the six of us. We love to go and grab dinner, listen to live music, and enjoy the outdoors. Definitely check it out!

How do you engage in our community?
We love being involved in the Fond du Lac community and take part in events and activities whenever we can. One of our favorite places is SSM Treffert Studios, where we enjoy participating in programs that promote inclusion for neurodivergent individuals. Our daughter, Charlie, is a child with autism and ADHD, and we are very fortunate to have these incredible resources and programs right here in our community. In addition, every year we look forward to Walleye Weekend and always take part in the run/walk. Our kids take swimming lessons through the Recreation Department, and we’re members of both the Fond du Lac Family YMCA and the Fond du Lac Children’s Museum. We do our best to stay connected and take advantage of all the wonderful things our community has to offer.

Share a lesson you have learned or a nugget of advice with other YP’s:
Before you can really understand others, it helps to know yourself and what matters most to you. Take some time to think about who you are and what drives you. And don’t be afraid to lean on the people who know you well—those who support you and want to help you grow. Having a good group of people around you makes a big difference, giving you advice and encouragement as you figure things out. It’s all about balancing looking inside yourself and reaching out to others. Before you can positively influence and lead others, you first have to know and lead yourself.

What do you love about the Greater Fond du Lac Area today and what is your hope for its future in the years to come?
Fond du Lac is always growing and changing, and I really encourage people to look at all the good that comes with that—especially when it comes to diversity and new ideas. I want my kids to grow up in the same great place I did, where they feel loved, supported, connected, and safe. It’s important to me that they feel like they belong here and can be part of making our community even better as it changes.