By Mary Shapiro

Kelli Moreton is to start her job as the new principal of Valley Park Elementary School on July 1.

"I'm very excited about meeting the new families, students and staff and to have the opportunity to continue the great work they've done in Valley Park," she said.

Moreton, of Wildwood, replaces Jan Humphrey, who recently announced her retirement.

Moreton brings more than 18 years of experience in education to Valley Park Elementary.

She's now completing her third year as assistant principal at Oak Brook Elementary School in the Parkway School District.

Previously, Moreton taught for about 15 years in three Rockwood School District schools: second grade at Ellisville Elementary School; second and fourth grades at Westridge Elementary School in Ballwin; and fourth grade at Wild Horse Elementary School in Chesterfield.

In 2005, Moreton was recognized as a Teacher of the Year at Ellisville Elementary School.