Griffin

BETHALTO — The Bethalto School District Board of Education has appointed Dr. Jill R. Griffin as the new superintendent of schools for the district, effective July 1.

Griffin currently serves as the district’s assistant superintendent. Prior to being named assistant superintendent, Griffin worked as a building and central office administrator within the district for 10 years. Before becoming an administrator, she served as a first-grade and Reading Recovery Teacher. In one capacity or another, Griffin has worked in all five Bethalto schools during her career. She replaces Charles Stegall, who recently accepted a dual-superintendency for the St. Anne elementary and high school districts in St. Anne, Ill.

“It is a tremendous honor to be named the superintendent of schools for the Bethalto School District,” Griffin said. “I have the unique experience of growing up in Bethalto, attending our schools, living as an adult in our community and working in our schools. Having the opportunity to now serve as superintendent in the district I dearly love and have a great deal of passion for is a dream come true.”

Griffin is committed to high achievement and meeting the needs of all students.

“Our school district and community are known for preparing students to be lifelong learners, meeting students where they are while helping them be successful in all they aspire to be through high school and beyond,” Griffin said. “We have an incredible faculty and staff in our district. I am blessed to serve alongside them, working to support the diverse needs of our students, striving for excellence, with ongoing focus on achievement for all.”

Griffin graduated from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where she also completed her master’s in instructional technology, a specialist in educational administration and her doctorate in educational leadership. After teaching first grade and Reading Recovery at Bethalto East Elementary and Parkside Primary School, Griffin began her administrative career as the principal of Meadowbrook Intermediate School. Five years later, she accepted the position of curriculum director, followed with her current position as assistant superintendent.

Griffin, a Bethalto native, is a graduate of Civic Memorial High School. Her husband, Ryan, and her children, Bryce and Delaney, are excited to join in the celebration as she begins her new role as superintendent this summer. Griffin’s parents, longtime Bethalto residents Keith and Rena’ Becker, also share their excitement for their daughter’s new role.

“My family has always served as my biggest cheerleaders,” Griffin said. “Ryan is as involved as any father possibly could be and has always encouraged me to follow my dreams, even when it meant additional sacrifice for him. I wouldn’t be where I am today without his love and unwavering support.”

Joining Griffin at the central office will be Civic Memorial High School Principal Justin Newell, serving as the district’s curriculum director. Newell has been an administrator in the district for seven years. Newell has served as a dean at Trimpe Middle School, a district technology leader of curriculum and as an assistant principal at CM prior to becoming the principal. Newell obtained his master’s in educational leadership from Eastern Illinois University.

“Justin is a dynamic leader whose knowledge of curriculum and instruction, coupled with his passion for kids, will serve him well in his new position,” Griffin said.

In addition, Dr. Barrett Deist will be serving part time as the district’s business manager and remaining part time at Trimpe Middle School as an assistant principal. Deist has five years of administrative experience within the district, serving as a dean and assistant principal at TMS. He received a specialist in educational administration from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and a doctorate in educational leadership from Saint Louis University. He holds both chief school business official and superintendent endorsements.

“Barrett is extremely knowledgeable about district finances and is a lifelong learner himself,” Griffin said. “His attention to detail, critical eye and servant leadership style will provide necessary financial oversight during tough economic times.”

Also, Jennifer Weber will continue in her central office position as the pupil personnel services coordinator, a position she has held the past two years.

“Jennifer has done a tremendous job of both continuing and improving the supports provided for our students,” Griffin said.

Bethalto School Board members say they are looking forward to continuing the success of the past with a renewed focus on the district’s vision, “Achievement for All.”