Meet Freeburg School District 70’s new superintendent, Mark Bearley

While Freeburg isn’t seeing any new principals this year, a new superintendent is taking over Freeburg School District 70.

In effort to help you get to know your new superintendent Mark Bearley before the school year starts, the Belleville News-Democrat sent him a questionnaire, along with other new St. Clair County new school leaders. 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 Bearley said:

Freeburg Community Consolidated School District 70

Mark Bearley, superintendent

Previous experience:

• Principal, Southwestern High School, 2010-2025
• Social studies teacher, Southwestern High School, 2000-2010

Education:

• Doctorate in educational leadership - SIUE, 2023
• Education Specialist Degree, superintendency - SIUE, 2021
• Master’s degree, educational administration - SIUE 2004
• Bachelor of Science, social studies education - Greenville University 2000

Annual base salary: $127,500

What is one issue in education that you’re most concerned about? What is one solution that you’re most excited about?The biggest challenge in education is to find ways to meet the academic, social, and emotional needs of every single student in the district.

There has been more focus placed on the social/emotional needs of students that assists students in dealing with challenging issues in more positive ways.

What do you want to tell students as they come back this year?

We are very excited for the new school year and look forward to seeing all of the students back in the classrooms working hard and having fun learning.

What would you like parents/guardians to know?

I am extremely excited to be a part of the Freeburg Hornets community and work with you and your students to have a successful and positive school year. I look forward to meeting you at the open house and other events in the district this year.

How can parents/guardians contact you?

bearleym@frg70.org