Meet the new principals in Cahokia Unit School District 187
As students return to school in Cahokia Heights, they’ll probably notice new leadership is in place.
That’s because six of Cahokia Unit School District 187’s nine school buildings have new principals. The only schools not seeing such administrative changes are the high school, Estelle Sauget School of Choice and Maplewood Elementary.
In an effort to help you get to know your new principals before the school year starts, the Belleville News-Democrat sent the district’s six new principals a questionnaire. We asked about their previous experiences, their concerns and hopes for the coming year and how to contact them. Click here to see responses from leaders from across St. Clair County. Here’s what the Cahokia Heights administrators said:
Tiana Montgomery, principal of Wirth-Parks Middle School
Previous experience:
- Project Success program director, Southern Illinois UniversityEdwardsville, 2022-2025
- Principal, Cassens Elementary School, Edwardsville Community Unit SchoolDistrict 7, 2020-2021
- Principal, Shiloh Elementary School, Shiloh Village School District 85,2017-2020
- Principal, North Elementary School, Alton Community Unit School District11, 2012-2017
- Assistant principal, North Elementary School, Alton Community Unit SchoolDistrict 11, 2007-2012
- Assistant principal, Alton Middle School, Alton Community Unit SchoolDistrict 11, 2006-2007
- Teacher, Lilly Freeman Elementary School, East St. Louis School District189, 2003-2006
Education:
- Doctoral candidate, McKendree University, 2024
- Educational Specialist Degree, Lindenwood University, 2008
- Superintendent’s Endorsement, Lindenwood University, 2008
- Master’s degree in educational administration, Lindenwood University,2006
- Bachelor’s degree in elementary education, Southern Illinois UniversityEdwardsville, 2003
Annual base salary: $93,297.67
What is one issue in education that you’re most concerned about? What is one solution that you’re most excited about? One education issue I am most concerned about is safety in schools which has an impact on school culture, academic performance, attendance and mental health. Students and staff should be able to come to a school environment that is safe and conducive for all. Safety should continue to be a top priority for all learning institutions. Safety is everyone’s job. One solution I am excited about is (how) social emotional learning (SEL) and wellness are now embedded into school culture for both students and staff alike. As educators, we are responsible for teaching and caring for the whole child and in doing so, we must take care of the adults doing this important work as well. There are many strategies and activities that can be implemented to promote wellness throughout the school year.
What do you want to tell students as they come back this year?
I would like to tell our Wirth Warriors YOU matter, YOU belong here, and come to school with a growth mindset. Be willing to put in the work both inside and outside of the classroom. There is a team of educators here to support you on your journey of learning.
What would you like parents/guardians to know?
I would like to thank parents for being advocates for their children. I look forward to collaborating with you this year to ensure our students are learning and growing. I encourage you to partner with us and be actively engaged in your child’s education because parent involvement is an essential component of success.
How can parents/guardians contact you?
Wirth Middle School at 618-332-3722
Ryan Bridgewater, principal of Penniman Elementary
Previous experience:
I bring over 25 years of experience in education, including 17 years at Penniman Elementary. I previously taught at Wirth Middle School and St. Louis Charter School. For the past 14 years, I’ve served on school leadership teams, working to strengthen school culture, behavior systems and family engagement. I hold certifications in physical education and health and a general administrative endorsement for grades K through 12. My career has been rooted in the Cahokia community for over two decades.
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in physical education, Eastern Illinois University
- Master of Arts in educational administration, Lindenwood University
- Illinois teaching certifications in physical education and health
- General administrative endorsement (K through 12), State of Illinois
Annual base salary: $82,368.02
What is one issue in education that you’re most concerned about? What is one solution that you’re most excited about? One of the biggest challenges we’re seeing is the growing disconnect between students and school, both in attendance and engagement. When students miss school, they miss out on the relationships, support and learning that help them thrive. I’m excited to change that by creating a strong sense of connection and belonging at Penniman, not just for students but for their families as well. This year, we’re hosting more than 18 family engagement events to bring everyone into the life of the school. When families feel welcome and valued, students do too. We want every child to feel like they belong here and that Penniman is a place where they are safe, supported and encouraged to succeed.
What do you want to tell students as they come back this year?
Welcome back! Penniman is your school, and we’re so glad to have you here. This is a place where you belong, where you’ll be supported and where we believe in your success. We’ll work together on being safe, respectful and responsible, and we’ll have fun along the way. I want every student to feel proud to be part of our school community. Let’s make this year full of growth, encouragement and Penniman pride.
What would you like parents/guardians to know?
I want you to know that your voice matters here, and I want you to feel like Penniman is your school too. I believe students do best when schools and families work together, and I’m committed to building that partnership. We’ll start with our open house in August, and you’ll see many more opportunities throughout the year to connect, participate and feel part of the Penniman community. Let’s do this together. Your involvement truly makes a difference, and I’m glad to have you with us.
How can parents/guardians contact you?
You can reach me by email at bridgerc@cusd187.org or by calling the school office at 618-332-5600. I’ll also be present and accessible at school events throughout the year. I look forward to meeting and working with you.
Bill Piening, principal of Elizabeth Morris Elementary
Previous experience:
With 18 years of experience in education, I have served as a special education teacher, special education coordinator and school principal. Throughout my career, I’ve remained committed to supporting diverse learners, building inclusive systems and fostering strong school communities through equity-driven leadership.
Education:
I hold a Doctor of Education in educational leadership and an Educational Specialist Degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. I also earned a Master of Arts in educational administration from McKendree University, as well as both a Master of Arts in teaching and a Bachelor of Science in organizational leadership from Greenville University.
Annual base salary: $83,412.25
What is one issue in education that you’re most concerned about? What is one solution that you’re most excited about?
One education issue I’m most concerned about: I’m deeply concerned about the growing shortage of qualified teachers and the impact this has on students with diverse learning needs. Staffing challenges not only increase class sizes but also strain the ability to provide individualized support, particularly in special education.
One solution I’m excited about: I’m excited about innovative approaches to teacher development and retention, especially mentorship models that pair early-career educators with experienced colleagues. Investing in strong induction programs and professional learning communities can build capacity, improve job satisfaction and ultimately strengthen outcomes for all students.
What do you want to tell students as they come back this year?
Welcome back! I want you to know how proud we are of your resilience, your curiosity and your ability to grow through every challenge. This year is a fresh start — a chance to set new goals, build strong friendships and discover what inspires you. Remember that you have a team of caring adults here to support you every step of the way. Believe in yourself, work hard and never be afraid to ask for help. You matter, you belong and you are capable of great things.
What would you like parents/guardians to know?
I want you to know how much we value your partnership. You are your child’s first and most important teacher, and your support makes all the difference in their success. Please know that we are committed to creating a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment where every student can learn and thrive. We believe in open communication and working together as a team. If you ever have questions, concerns or ideas, don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education — we look forward to a wonderful year ahead.
How can parents/guardians contact you?
Office phone (618-332-5550), district cell (618-823-2402) or email (pieningw@cusd187.org)
Jill Behan, principal of Lalumier Elementary
Previous experience:
- Middle school math teacher, Cahokia Unit School District 187, 2003-2025
- 5th grade teacher, Smithton Unit School District 130, 2001-2003
- 5th and 6th grade teacher, Mobile County Public Schools, 1997-2000
Education:
- Master’s degree in educational administration, Lindenwood University, 2008
- Bachelor’s degree in elementary education, Spring Hill College, 1997
Annual base salary: $85,362.19
What is one issue in education that you’re most concerned about? What is one solution that you’re most excited about? Ensuring ALL students’ academic and social needs are identified and effectively addressed. Addressing these needs involves proactive identification through various assessment methods and implementing tailored interventions, including social-emotional learning (SEL) programs, differentiated instruction and collaborative support systems. (One solution is) the Professional Learning Community Framework. Through this framework, we can collectively collaborate, identify needs and ensure the highest level of learning for all students.
What do you want to tell students as they come back this year?
I can’t wait to see your smiling faces and hear about your summer adventures. I believe in your potential to do great things. An education provides you with the tools to achieve your dreams. Let’s make this a year of learning, creativity and compassion. Together we can do great things!
What would you like parents/guardians to know?
Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education. Together, we can provide the support and guidance our students need to thrive — academically, socially and emotionally.
How can parents/guardians contact you?
Email (behanj@cusd187.org) or Lalumier Elementary School phone (618-332-3713)
Kristopher D. Fields, principal of the Academic and Character Development Center
Previous experience:
My work experience includes working with federally funded educational programs such as TRIO Upward Bound and YouthBuild, and I have spent the last 13 years working as an English teacher at various grade levels.
Education:
I am a proud graduate of Lane College where I earned a bachelor’s degree in English. I continued my academic preparation by earning a master’s degree in teaching and an Ed.S from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, and I also have a second master’s degree in communications from Lindenwood University.
Annual base salary: $81,227.03
What is one issue in education that you’re most concerned about? What is one solution that you’re most excited about?
I am always concerned about the “cookie cutter” approach of the current educational system. There is a need to offer non-traditional learners an opportunity to experience learning in transformative and applicable learning environments. I am truly excited about working with students who are in need of additional support towards realigning their focus with their desired academic outcomes.
What do you want to tell students as they come back this year?
The school year goes by very quickly. Please do not lose precious time worrying about unimportant things such as the negativity of others, unnecessary drama or allowing yourself to procrastinate. Remember that time is not your friend! Focus on your goals, keep your mind on becoming the best version of yourself and remember that you are more than capable of doing great things because greatness resides within you.
What would you like parents/guardians to know?
Educators are proud to partner with you in the academic development of your children. Your presence and input is desired, needed and most importantly, valued. Working together helps ensure students are obtaining the best educational development possible.
How can parents/guardians contact you?
Families can reach me via email (fieldsk@cusd187.org), phone (618-332-5101) or in-person.
Fernando Stevenson, principal of Huffman Elementary School
Previous experience:
I spent 20 years in school district 189.
Education:
I have a Bachelor of Arts in organizational communication from McKendree University, a master’s in education from McKendree University and a master’s in educational leadership from American College of Education.
Annual base salary: $83,716.19
What is one issue in education that you’re most concerned about? What is one solution that you’re most excited about? Mental health and wellbeing of students and staff is one education issue that I’m concerned about. One solution that I’m excited about is the influx of professional services that are available to support both groups.
What do you want to tell students as they come back this year?
As students return this year, I want to tell students that I and the staff are here to assist and help them navigate this year and achieve to their full potential.
What would you like parents/guardians to know?
I would like the parents/guardians to know that a strong partnership between home and school is essential for student success. Continuous involvement is encouraged. The collaboration process will start immediately and throughout the school year to ensure that students reach their full potential.
How can parents/guardians contact you?
Parents can contact me by calling the school (618-332-3720), visiting the school or by email (stevensonf@cusd187.org).