“The day I quit learning is the day I need to retire,” said Southern Illinois University Edwardsville alumna Kelly Carpenter, EdD, emphasizing her strong belief in the value of continued learning.
She’s proven that commitment by completing her master’s in special education in 1998, specialist degree in educational administration in 2015 and doctorate in education leadership in 2017, all from SIUE. While soaking in new knowledge and strengthening her leadership skills, she has climbed the K-12 educational system’s professional ranks, being named Dupo School District’s superintendent in 2017.
Carpenter joins numerous School of Education, Health and Human Behavior (SEHHB) Department of Educational Leadership alumni who have secured high-level administration positions upon completing a graduate degree or endorsement from SIUE.
“We strive to prepare competent leaders for both building and district level leadership who are job ready upon graduation to lead in today’s dynamic and challenging K-12 environment,” said Alison Reeves, PhD, associate professor and educational administration program director. “Leadership is one of the most important aspects of a quality school system. Excellent leaders promote positive school climates; hire, retain and develop exceptional teachers; and advocate tirelessly for students and families.”
Recent SIUE alumni administrative hires include:
- Emily Warneke, superintendent at East Alton Elementary School District
- Casey Adam, principal at Pana High School
- Dustin Foutch, EdD, principal at Central High School in Breese
- Chris Becker, EdD, principal & Caleb Houtchins, assistant principal, both at Highland High School
- Jessica Miller, principal at Taylorville High School
- Tiffany Zobrist, principal at Dupo High School
- Rachel Leckrone, principal at Bethalto East Elementary School
“The State of Illinois recognizes that public schools now face growing challenges, which include teacher shortages, funding uncertainties and students’ growing needs for social services,” said SEHHB Interim Dean Paul Rose, PhD. “Challenges like these have prompted SIU System President Dr. Randy Dunn to launch the Great Schools Southern Illinois initiative.”
“The state and nation’s need for wise school leaders is as strong today as it has ever been,” he continued. “We are proud to offer rigorous educational administration programs within our school and equally proud of our highly successful graduates.”
SIUE’s educational administration program balances experiential learning with theory and research in order to develop leaders who are committed to ensuring all students reach their potential.
“I pursued a master’s in educational administration at SIUE, because I wanted to make a greater impact in the educational world and help other teachers become better teachers,” said Adam. “I love being able to go home every day knowing I have lifted up and empowered my staff to be the best versions of themselves, so that they may go on to empower their students.”
For more information on the SIUE educational administration graduate program, visit siue.edu/education/edld/edad.
Photo: (L-R) Kelly Carpenter, EdD, Dupo School District superintendent and Casey Adam, Pana High School principal