Meet new school leaders in St. Clair County for 2024, plus their salaries, experience
By Kelly Smits,
12 days agoStudents return to school this week and next, and many in St. Clair County will have a new principal or superintendent for the upcoming school year.
There are 19 new education leaders in the county this year: 13 principals, five superintendents and a regional superintendent .
The BND sent a questionnaire to each of the leaders to learn more about them. Here are their responses.
Jump to your school district:
- Belle Valley District 119
- Belleville District 118
- Cahokia District 187
- Central District 104
- Dupo District 196
- Freeburg District 70
- Freeburg District 77
- Lebanon 9
- O'Fallon 90
- O'Fallon 203
- St. Clair County Regional Office of Education 50
- Belleville Diocese
Belle Valley District 119
School: Belle Valley Middle School
Principal: Amanda Bagley
Previous experience:
Special education supervisor, Cahokia District 187, 2021-24
Assistive technology facilitator, Cahokia District 187, 2017-21
Special education teacher, Cahokia District 187, 2012-17
Permanent substitute, Cahokia District 187, 2010-12
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in elementary education, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2010
Master’s degree in special education, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2013
Doctorate in educational leadership, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2023
Annual base salary: $98,365
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
Not all schools are equipped to address and support students’ mental health. Students need to be given the skills and resources to cope with their emotional needs. Often, sufficient resources and training are not available for staff to address these needs. These needs become barriers for students to receive the instruction presented to them, making it difficult to be successful academically. Schools need to be able to recognize student needs, and provide support that will address those needs.
A solution for this would be to bring in staff with expertise in these areas. Schools often have social workers, but there is a need for more support in addition to the role social workers traditionally serve. These staff members can work with students directly, and can also train other staff on strategies that can be implemented in classrooms. As I join the Belle Valley team, I am excited because I see there are systems and personnel in place working to address these types of student needs.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
We are so excited to have students back in the building! The teachers and staff have been working so hard this summer to prepare for an awesome new year. We are so excited to have tremendous year of growth, learning, and fun!
And parents/guardians?
We are so excited to have your child(ren) back in the building. You can rest assured that we are prepared to foster an environment of safety, support, and learning. We are excited to be on your team to help your child reach their greatest potential!
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Email: abagley@bv119.net
Belle Valley District 119’s phone: 618-236-5200
Belleville District 118
School: Roosevelt Elementary School
Principal: Joshua Strausbaugh
Previous experience:
Assistant principal, Abraham Lincoln Elementary School, Belleville Distict 118, 2022-24
Elementary & middle school teacher, Belleville District 119, 2010-22
Education:
Master’s degree in educational administration & leadership, McKendree University, 2020
Bachelor’s degree in elementary education, McKendree University, 2010
Annual base salary: $99,132
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
An educational issue I am currently concerned about is the lack of applicants for teaching and support staff positions. A school cannot function without qualified educators and staff members to educate, empower, and build character in students on a daily basis.
I am excited about the opportunities and experiences our local high schools are creating to give their students the chance to work in our schools. Allowing our high school students to work alongside our outstanding educators and with our amazing students is an awesome way to build-up the next generation of educators!
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
GET EXCITED!!!
You have an incredible opportunity to come to school everyday to learn new things, make new friends, and create positive memories that last a lifetime. Make the choice to come to school everyday with the mindset of being and doing your absolute best!
I always remind my students... Good choices lead to good days. Be in the right place, at the right time, doing the right thing.
And parents/guardians?
THANK YOU!!!
Thank you for trusting us and sending your amazing kids to our schools. We are extremely blessed to have schools filled with students that make good choices, want to learn new things, make new friends, and create positive memories everyday. We cannot do what we do without your support.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Parents/guardians can get in contact with me by email, phone, or scheduling an in-person meeting.
Email: jstrausbaugh@belleville118.org
Roosevelt Elementary School’s phone: 618-233-1608
Cahokia District 187
School: Huffman Elementary School
Principal: Kimberly Allen
Previous experience:
Assistant principal, Dunbar Elementary School, East St. Louis District 189, 2021-24
Assistant principal, East St. Louis Senior High School, East St. Louis District 189, 2018-21
Special education teacher, East St. Louis Senior High School, East St. Louis District 189, 2015-18
Special education teacher, SIUE East St. Louis Charter High School, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2011-15
Special education teacher, Centreville Elementary School, Cahokia District 187, 2009-11
Special education teacher, Cahokia High School, Cahokia District 187, 2008-09
Education:
Master’s degree in educational administration, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2012
Bachelor’s degree in special education, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2008
Annual base salary: $87,898
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
One issue that I am highly concerned about is the alarming number of students who are unable to read and lack basic foundational skills needed to be successful in life.
I am excited about teachers co-laboring together through PLC work to ensure that all students master grade level standards.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
As you start a new school year, I encourage you to take your job (learning) seriously, meet new people, find a trusted adult and have fun learning. Everything you do now is an investment on your future. In the words of Malcolm X, “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.”
And parents/guardians?
I would like to thank the parents for entrusting us with their greatest resource as we work to educate their children. I would also like to encourage the parents to get involved and become an active member of their child’s school community.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Huffman Elementary School’s phone: 618-332-5700
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School: Syreeta Holland
Principal: Morris Elementary School
Previous experience:
Principal, Hazelwood Central High School, Hazelwood School District, 2022-24
Assistant principal, Hazelwood North Middle School, Hazelwood School District, 2020-22
Principal, Most Holy Trinity School and Academy, St. Louis Archdiocese, 2018-20
Associate principal of curriculum and instruction, Trinity Catholic High School, St. Louis Archdiocese, 2018
Principal, Old North Elementary School, Confluence Academies, 2017-18
Assistant principal/dean of student formation, St. Louis Archdiocese, 2015-17
Professional school counselor, Hazelwood North Middle School, Hazelwood School District, 2007-15
Special education team leader, Adams Elementary School, St. Louis Public Schools, 2002-07
Education:
Doctorate in instructional leadership, Lindenwood University, 2017
Master’s degree in educational administration, Lindenwood University
Master’s degree in education, Lindenwood University
Master’s degree in school counseling, Lindenwood University
Master’s degree in professional counseling, Lindenwood University
Bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation, University of Central Missouri, 1999
Annual base salary: $92,000
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
One issue I am most concerned about:
The achievement gap which continues to increase when comparing the achievement of non-minority students with minority students and the lack of cultural awareness non-minority educators possess which will assist with ensuring all students regardless of their level of achievement having access to culturally relevant instruction.
One solution I am most excited about:
Ensuring students from low-income backgrounds have access to funds, resources, and educators who have a genuine regard for their level of achievement.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
As you walk through the doors and halls of your learning environment make a concerted effort to obtain success. Do not allow anyone to gain a level of control over you and monopolize the opportunity to impede your academic growth and achievement. Insert yourself in rooms and conversations with individuals who are going to challenge you consistently to sharpen your skills and knowledge.
And parents/guardians?
The African adage “...it takes a village...” is still relevant today. Work to build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders within your child’s school. Though we(educators) appreciate you entrusting us with your most precious gift, we can not ensure your child reaches their highest level of potential without working in tandem. It is imperative that you too have a presence in the school so your child is aware of our partnership which is an integral component to student success.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Morris Elementary School’s phone: 618-332-5500
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School: Penniman Elementary School
Principal: Melissa Fields
Previous experience:
Head teacher, Cahokia District 187, 2018-24
Physical education teacher, Cahokia District 187, 2007-24
Physical education, health, and driver’s education teacher, Bunker Hill District 8, 2006-07
Physical education teacher and sub, East Alton-Wood River District 14, 2005-06
Education:
Master’s degree in educational administration, Grand Canyon University, 2018
Master’s degree in special education, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2013
Bachelor’s degree in physical education, Millikin University, 2004
Annual base salary: $85,692
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
One issue in education that I am most concerned about is chronic absenteeism and the late students we see daily. School districts face multiple issues with students getting behind in their education because they are late, leave early, or just don’t show up. We have to get our students to school and work to overcome obstacles they face when they get behind, so each one can succeed. We have to build the mindset that when they show up they succeed.
A solution I am excited for is to celebrate student and staff success and push towards the idea that all students are capable of success and learning. I am excited to celebrate progress and success if it is small or big and show students and staff that we can succeed together.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
I would tell students to always be themselves and never let anyone dictate their future. Everyone can overcome obstacles, succeed in school, and be who they want to be as long as you show up every day to school to learn. Focus on your education journey, have fun and enjoy school, but stay out of trouble and success will happen.
And parents/guardians?
Parents and guardians we have to work as a team for your child to succeed and we can. If we have everyone wanting the best for our students and invested in them, then there is no reason why your child should fail. As a principal, I want each student to know I believe in them and parents to know I have your child’s best interest at heart. That’s why I will always have an open door policy and truly listen to you and your child’s concerns and needs. Teachers, school staff, administrators, parents, and students are much more successful when we are a team.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Penniman Elementary School’s phone: 618-332-5651
Central District 104
School: Whitney Carpenter
Principal: Joseph Arthur Middle School
Previous experience:
Assistant principal & instructional support, Dawn Elser Elementary School, Central District 104, 2023-24
Instructional coach, Central District 104, 2021-23
General education teacher, Central Elementary School, Central District 104, 2016-21
Special education teacher, Central Elementary School, Central District 104, 2009-16
Education:
Administrative leadership endorsement, Mckendree University, 2022
Master’s degree in special education, Mckendree University, 2013
Bachelor’s degree in elementary education, McKendree University, 2009
Annual base salary: $95,000
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
The teacher shortage in Illinois is concerning, but as an administrator, I strive to create a culture where teachers feel valued and supported to boost morale and build a strong team that will want to learn and grow together for our students.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
Even though I’ve been part of the Central #104 School District for 15 years, I’m excited to join the Joseph Arthur Family as your new principal and become a part of the House System, 5 Houses One Family.
And parents/guardians?
Collaborating with families and the community is vital to ensuring the success of our students both inside and outside the classroom. I look forward to our collaboration this year and to increasing parent/student involvement here at JAMS.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Phone: 618-632-6336, ext. 201
Email: wcarpenter@central104.org
Dupo District 196
Superintendent: Victoria White
Previous experience:
Assistant superintendent, Dupo District 196, 2023-24
Principal, Bluffview Elementary School, Dupo District 196, 2017-23
Principal, Maplewood Elementary School, Cahokia District 187, 2007-17
Elementary education teacher, Cahokia District 187, 1998-07
Education:
Doctorate in educational leadership, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2022
Education specialist degree, superintendent, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2020
Master’s degree in educational administration, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2005
Bachelor’s degree in elementary education, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 1997
Annual base salary: $136,000
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
Cultivating a positive climate is crucial to the success of all educational institutions. This requires ongoing two-way communication, high expectations for all students and staff, increased academic rigor, family engagement, and accountability.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
I would like to extend a warm welcome to the 2024-2025 school year. I am very exited to continue this educational journey with each of you and hope you had fun summer. I look forward to watching you grow and accomplish great things this year.
And parents/guardians?
I’m excited to have this opportunity to lead the Dupo School District. I look forward to continuing to collaborate with all stakeholders on our many successes and identify new opportunities for our students.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Dupo District 196’s phone: 618-286-3812
Freeburg District 70
School: Freeburg Primary Center
Principal: Stacey Sommerfield
Previous experience:
- Principal, Wolf Branch Middle School
- Teacher, Cahokia District 187
Education:
- Master’s degree, McKendree University, 2007
- Bachelor’s degree in elementary education, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Annual base salary: $84,000
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
I am very excited to meet the students families of Freeburg!
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
This is going to be an awesome year and I can’t wait to meet you!
And parents/guardians?
I am excited to be a part of school wide celebrations like Fall Festival.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Email: sommerfields@frg70.org
Freeburg District 77
Superintendent: Sarah Gass
Previous experience:
Principal, Althoff Catholic High School, 2020-24
Assistant principal of curriculum and instruction, Quincy Senior High School, Quincy District 172, 2017-20
Principal, Chester High School, Chester District 139, 2015-17
Math teacher, O’Fallon Township High School, O’Fallon District 203, 2007-15
Education:
Doctorate in curriculum and instruction, McKendree University, 2015
Education specialist degree, superintendency, McKendree University, 2022
Education specialist degree, education administration, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2010
Master’s degree in education, McKendree University, 2006
Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 2005
Annual base salary: $122,500
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
I am very concerned with the lack of students going into education. The teacher shortage is a real threat that can impact future generations.
I am excited to see how AI will impact education.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
I hope our students challenge themselves to seek new opportunities and work outside their comfort zone. It is when we are challenged that we grow.
And parents/guardians?
Be present and enjoy every moment with your students. They grow up so quickly and you are their most important teacher.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Email: gasss@fchs77.org
Lebanon District 9
Superintendent: Matt Noyes
Previous experience:
Principal, Triad Middle School, Triad District 2, 2014-24
Principal, Dorris Intermediate School, Collinsville District 10, 2012-14
Assistant principal, Greenville Elementary School, Bond County District 2, 2010-12
Fifth grade teacher, C.A. Henning Elementary School, Triad District 2, 2008-10
Sixth grade teacher, Triad Middle School, Triad District 2, 1999-2008
Education:
Doctorate in educational leadership, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2020
Superintendents’ endorsement, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2015
Education specialist degree, educational administration, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2009
Master’s degree in instructional technology, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2007
Bachelor’s degree in elementary education, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 1999
Annual base salary: $145,000
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
Did not answer.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
I’m excited to welcome students back for the 2024-2025 school year. It’s going to be a great year for the Greyhounds, and I am looking forward to meeting all of our students. We are here for you. Please let us know how we can help you find success and reach your goals!
And parents/guardians?
Thank you for trusting us with your children. We value your partnership and are looking forward to having all of our students and staff back together again soon. It’s going to be a great year for the Greyhounds.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Lebanon District 9’s phone: 618-537-4611
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School: Lebanon Elementary School
Principal: Jennifer Seely
Previous experience:
Dean of students, Lebanon Elementary School, Lebanon District 9, 2023-24
ELA & SS teacher, Lebanon Jr. High School, Lebanon District 9, 2020-24
Kindergarten teacher, Sandoval Elementary School, Sandoval District 501, 2017-20
First grade teacher, Hinchcliffe Elementary School, O’Fallon District 90, 2016-17
Education:
Master’s degree in educational administration, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2021
Bachelor’s degree in elementary education with middle school endorsements, McKendree University, 2016
Annual base salary: $80,000
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
One issue I am most concerned about is a shortage in both teachers and support staff. Providing quality educators is a top focus of mine.
One solution I am most excited about is having McKendree in our community. McKendree offers great programming to support paraprofessionals in expanding their education and develops fantastic educators.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
We are so excited to welcome students back to school this year! I cannot wait to get to know each and every student and watch them grow into the best possible version of themselves.
And parents/guardians?
I am so excited to be a leader in our community this year! We have phenomenal educators and support staff to help guide our students. I cannot wait to see what great things our students will accomplish this year as they grow and learn.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Email: jeseely@lcusd9.org
Lebanon Elementary School’s phone: 618-537-4553
O’Fallon District 90
School: Evans Elementary School
Principal: Brad Gotshall
Previous experience:
Assistant principal & district school improvement coordinator, Pontiac Jr. High, Pontiac-William Holliday District 105, 2015-24
Athletic director, Pontiac Jr. High, Pontiac-William Holliday District 105, 2014-23
School improvement coordinator, Pontiac Jr. High, Pontiac-William Holliday District 105, 2014-15
Response to intervention (RTI) teacher, Pontiac Jr. High, Pontiac-William Holliday District 105, 2012-14
Sixth grade teacher, 2009-2014
Education:
Master’s degree in educational administration, McKendree University, 2013
Bachelor’s degree in elementary education, Butler University, 2005
Annual base salary: $98,000
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
Addressing the social & emotional needs of the students.
The main solution is utilizing the social workers, counselors, and psychologists to provide the appropriate support to students, staff, and families.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
I would encourage students to simply do their best and enjoy each day. We all can find something positive in each and every day.
And parents/guardians?
I would encourage parents/guardians to keep the lines of communication open with school. They entrust their students into our care which is the reason the way communication is so critical.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Email: bgotshall@of90.net
Evans Elementary School’s phone: 618-632-3335
O’Fallon District 203
Superintendent: Beth Shackelford
Previous experience:
Interim superintendent, O’Fallon District 203, 2023-24
Director of academics and special projects, O’Fallon District 203, 2022-24
Director of business and operations, O’Fallon District 203, 2018-22
Assistant principal, O’Fallon District 203, 2011-18
Music department chair, O’Fallon District 203, 2007-11
Adjunct professor, McKendree University, 2006-10
Music teacher, O’Fallon District 203, 2001-11
Music teacher, Mascoutah District 19, 2000-01
Music teacher, Shiloh Village District 85, 1999-2000
Education:
Doctorate in educational leadership, Saint Louis University, 2009
Administration licensure, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2006
Master’s degree in music education, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 2004
Bachelor’s degree in music education, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 1999
Annual base salary: $163,500
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
Following the pandemic, schools have experienced unprecedented challenges in the areas of student achievement and attendance. In response, OTHS has increased its intervention efforts to ensure all students are equipped to be successful in school. In addition, OTHS was recently awarded a $750,000 DoDEA grant with a focus on community, connection, and culture. The grant initiatives align with our focus on making sure our students experience a sense of belonging in our school community and are supported both academically and personally.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
Our staff has been working hard over the summer to make sure we’re ready to give our students a great start to the 2024-2025 school year. Our campuses are lonely without you, and we can’t wait to have your energy and talents back in our hallways in a few short weeks!
And parents/guardians?
Our partnership with families is an integral part of the success of our school. From the classroom to the athletic field and everywhere in between, our entire staff is dedicated to providing unparalleled support to ensure your student’s success throughout the school year.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Email: shackelfordb@oths.us
—
School: O’Fallon Township High School
Principal: Daniel Howe
Previous experience:
Assistant principal, O’Fallon Township High School, 2009-24
Social studies teacher, O’Fallon Township High School, 1994-2009
Education:
Master’s degree in educational administration, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 1999
Bachelor’s degree in social science (education), Illinois State University, 1994
Annual base salary: $144,700
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
I am most concerned about student attendance. Student attendance at school is the key to every student’s educational success. From math skills to writing skills to social skills, attendance at school will improve all of these skills from the earliest age onward to give every student the best chance for their individual goals. Putting more emphasis of the importance of physically being in class everyday will hopefully lead to more students attending school everyday.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
The OTHS community is very excited for your return back to school for the 2024-2025 school year. OTHS looks forward to advancing your education, development, and well-being to achieve your academic potential. OTHS will work continuously to help you advance your knowledge and stimulate your intellectual curiosity. OTHS will provide ample opportunities for your involvement in the classroom and beyond the classroom. Challenge yourself to embrace school and allow OTHS to guide you towards your educational goals.
And parents/guardians?
OTHS thanks all of the parents/guardians of the students for trusting the OTHS staff to teach their children. OTHS knows this awesome responsibility and work everyday to uphold the high standards that OTHS families have come to expect through the legacy of education at OTHS.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Email: howed@oths.us
Phone: 618-632-3507, ext. 5221
St. Clair County Regional Office of Education 50
Superintendent: Lori Costello
Previous experience:
Principal, Waterloo High School, Waterloo District 5, 2014–23
Assistant principal, Waterloo High School, Waterloo District 5, 2008-14
Education:
Education specialist degree, superintendent licensure, University of Illinois Springfield, 2008
Education specialist degree, chief school business official, University of Illinois Springfield, 2008
Master’s degree in educational administration, McKendree University, 2006
Teacher certification, business education, McKendree University, 2002
Bachelor’s degree in finance, Illinois State University, 1991
Annual base salary: $135,000
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
The teacher shortage continues to affect all schools throughout the county. However, the state has offered flexibility in obtaining proper credentials.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
Strive for excellence and enjoy your school year!
And parents/guardians?
I look forward to working with you on creating an environment where all of our children will thrive.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Regional office’s phone: 618-825-3900
Belleville Diocese
Superintendent: Rev. Michael Caruso
Previous experience:
Vice president of mission, planning, and operations, Saint Louis University High School, 2022-24
Associate professor of education, Saint Louis University, 2021-22
President, Saint Ignatius College Prep (Chicago, IL), 2010-20
Chair, Department of Educational Leadership, Loyola Marymount University (Los Angeles, CA), 2008-10
Director, Catholic School Administration Program, Loyola Marymount University (Los Angeles, CA), 2003-05
Director, Leadership for Equity, Advocacy and Diversity Center (Loyola Marymount University’s partnership with the National Catholic Educational Association to assist administrators and teachers in related work), 2002-04
Director of campus ministry, Rockhurst University (Kansas City, MO), 1994-98
Administrator, Our Lady of Peace Parish (Kansas City, MO), 1992-93
Education:
Doctorate, University of San Francisco’s Institute of Catholic Educational Leadership, 2000
Graduate studies in higher education administration, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 1996-97
Ascetical studies, Jesuit Novitiate (Denver, CO), 1989-90
Master of Divinity, St. Mary of the Lake, Mundelein Seminary, 1982
Ordained a Catholic Priest, 1982
Bachelor of Sacred Theology, St. Mary of the Lake University, Mundelein Seminary, 1981
Bachelor’s degree, Conception Seminary College, 1978
Annual base salary: undisclosed, private school
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
Issue I’m most concerned about: The financing Catholic schools to keep them affordable without sacrificing excellence.
Solution that I’m most excited about: Working with our schools to enhance their Catholic identity as the distinguishing hallmark of our educational excellence.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
Dear Students: Summer break offers many new opportunities to continue learning valuable lessons: Visiting family, traveling, working jobs at home or entering the workforce, vacations, learning and enjoying new activities. But now it’s back to school to be with friends and teachers. The early weeks of school are always a new and exciting opportunity to hit the reset button. Remember that in each subject, no matter how challenging it may seem, that no one was born knowing everything! Your teachers are eager to help you master each subject and along with your parents, they will be your biggest fans to succeed. While academic success is important, even more so is the kind of person you are becoming. Remember that every day before, in between, and following Religion class and times of prayer, Jesus is calling you to be His disciple.
And parents/guardians?
Dear Parents: Thank you for choosing a Catholic school to partner in your child’s education and formation! Jesus Christ and His teachings infuse everything we do, and we hope that we will be building on this strong foundation that you have laid in your homes. Our pastors, principals, teachers, and staffs are committed to creating schools where your child excels academically and maximizes their God given intellectual and spiritual gifts. Religion classes, Reconciliation Services, Masses, Retreats, Service Projects, preparation for the Sacraments of First Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation are all exciting milestones for your family. Attending Sunday Mass and participation in the life of your parish is a foundation stone in giving your children a moral compass and the spiritual resources that will carry them through life.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Email: mcaruso@diobelle.org
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School: Althoff Catholic High School (Belleville)
Principal: Jonathan Birdsong
Previous experience:
Superintendent of schools, Belleville Diocese, 2018-24
Principal, St. Teresa Catholic School, Belleville Diocese, 2014-18
Principal, Granite City High School, Granite City District 9, 2013-14
Assistant principal, Granite City High School, Granite City District 9, 2011-13
Education:
Doctorate in educational leadership (ABD), curriculum development, McKendree University
Education specialist degree, curriculum development, McKendree University, 2016
Master’s degree in educational leadership, McKendree University, 2007
Bachelor’s degree in exercise science, University of Missouri-St. Louis
Annual base salary: undisclosed, private school
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
How do we best prepare students for their futures?
I’m most excited about finding new solutions and curriculum approaches that engage students.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
Come back to school refreshed and ready to make the upcoming school year the best year yet.
And parents/guardians?
Be supportive of your children and their teachers. Remember that everyone ultimately wants all students to be successful in the end, but that struggling is often a part of the process.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Email: jbirdsong@althoffcatholic.org
Althoff Catholic High School’s phone: 618-235-1100
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School: St. James Catholic School (Millstadt)
Principal: Kristin Laws
Previous experience:
Preschool teacher, Prather Elementary School, Granite City District 9, 2018-24
Teacher, Maryville Elementary School, Granite City District 9, 2003-18
Education:
Doctorate of curriculum and instruction, Liberty University, in process of obtaining (hoping 2025)
Principal certificate, McKendree University, 2016
Endorsement, learning behavior specialist 1 (LBS1), St. James University, 2014
Master’s degree in teacher development, McKendree University, 2008
Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education with special education endorsement, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 2003
Annual base salary: undisclosed, private school
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
An issue in education that is concerning is teacher shortages, which seemed to escalate during the COVID19 pandemic. Many teachers are exiting the profession, fewer new teachers are entering the profession, and that is leaving school districts to struggle to hire teachers for vacant positions. Unfortunately, this has a negative impact on the students. The students cannot learn if there is no one qualified to teach them.
Teachers, families, and students all know that the pandemic changed the landscape of the education system. The “typical” models and tools used no longer worked. Educators had to redesign their methods and by doing so they found changes that were actually long overdue. Despite all of the challenges, the pandemic also provided new ways of meeting teachers’ and students’ needs. So many of these innovations are still continuing to develop and improve today. The online learning and artificial intelligence is set to revolutionize the learning for both teachers and students.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
To the students, first I want to say, I hope you had a wonderful summer vacation! As the new principal this year, I am very excited to meet all of the students and spend the 24-25 school year with them. I look forward to watching all the students excel this year, and I want all of the students to know that I am here to support them. As we embark on this year together, I feel truly blessed to be your principal, and I look forward to seeing you all very soon!
And parents/guardians?
To the parents/guardians, I would first like to thank you for all the support you have given me this summer as I became the new principal at St. James. As we start this new school year, I feel honored to have the privilege of working alongside you and your children. I firmly believe that excellence in schools comes as a result of the collaborative efforts of staff, students, parents, and the community. Enjoy the remainder of summer with your family and friends as you get excited for the new school year!
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Email: kristin.laws@stjamesmillstadt.com
St. James Catholic School’s phone: 618-476-3510
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School: St. Joseph Catholic School (Freeburg)
Principal: Brandy Hildebrand
Previous experience:
Assistant principal, Mary Queen of Peace Catholic School, St. Louis Archdiocese, 2023-24
Science teacher, Father McGivney Catholic High School, Springfield Diocese, 2015-23
Education:
Master’s degree in educational administration, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2023
Bachelor’s degree in chemistry with secondary education, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, 2014
Annual base salary: undisclosed, private school
What’s one issue in education you’re most concerned about? What’s one solution you’re most excited about?
One issue in education I am most concerned about is Academic Pressure. Students are more worried about the grade they are receiving than actually learning the material.
One solution is to have conversations with students about doing their best and not focusing on the grade, but learn the material and the grades will follow.
What message would you like to tell students as they come back to school this year?
I am very excited to be the principal at St. Joseph Catholic School and to be a part of this wonderful community. I am excited to get to know and work with the staff and students in my school, and as a team we will have a wonderful year of learning.
And parents/guardians?
Education is my passion and I am so excited to lead St. Joseph Catholic School as well as share my love of learning with everyone.
How can parents/guardians get in touch with you?
Email: bhildebrand@stjcsil.org
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