MEET THE TEAM

  • President & CEO

    Prior to joining Ready for School, DeLost worked for Easter Seals Central Illinois (ECI), an organization dedicated to helping children with developmental delays, disabilities, and other special needs reach their full potential. At ECI, DeLost most recently served as Vice President of Program Services. Prior to that, DeLost also worked as Vice President of Rehabilitation and Clinical Services and Director of Motor Therapy and Aquatics. DeLost also has extensive experience providing services to children and families as an occupational therapist in home, medical, school, and community settings.

    “My passion for serving children and families prepares me well to help children get their best start through the services Ready For School provides,” says DeLost. “I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to lead this organization. I am excited to work with stakeholders to further the mission of Ready for School as the organization continues its strong tradition of making a positive impact by serving local children and families.”

  • Manager of Business Services

    Amanda Rios is the Ready for School Office Manager and is joining Reach Out and Read Michigan as a Program Specialist. Amanda has almost 10 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, with most of that time being in the early childhood field as a Family Services Advocate for Head Start.

    Amanda has always been passionate about helping others and positively impacting the community.

  • Program Manager Reach Out & Read Michigan

    Tracy Amid joins Reach Out and Read Michigan as a Program Manager. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Business from Calvin University and a Master of Management from Cornerstone University. Tracy has over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector in varying roles promoting program growth, partnerships, marketing, and process improvements.

    Tracy’s passion for the mission of Reach Out and Read Michigan was only amplified during her experience as a foster parent and adoptive parent. She gained first hand experience on the importance of early childhood literacy and development.

  • Development Associate

    Renata Ellis joins Ready For School as a Development Associate. A graduate of the University of Missouri, Renata launched her career as a Teach For America Corps member, where she earned her Special Education certification and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Rice University. She later advanced her expertise with a Master of Science in Secondary Special Education from the University of Kansas.

    With over two decades of vocational investment, she has been a champion for students with exceptionalities and children from marginalized communities, focusing on closing the achievement gap through equity-based programming and culturally responsive initiatives.

    A former Special Educator and school administrator, Renata’s commitment to the mission is driven by her belief that every child makes significant strides with early enrichment. She is passionate about breaking down barriers and destigmatizing false narratives to ensure that all children receive the support needed to succeed.