As the first day of school approaches, meet District 186's new principals

Even though he's in just his third year as an administrator with Springfield Public Schools District 186, Chris Hood impressed enough people for him to be named principal of Graham Elementary School this year.

Having this sort of job so early in one's administrative career can be a bit daunting, but Hood said he's not without help nor support.

"Here in District 186, I have always had support," Hood said. "I've always been given really strong support from past administrators that I've worked for as well as district leadership. If I need assistance on something, I know who to contact. There's a lot of support for administrators in the district."

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Hood's job is made all the more interesting through Graham's unique year-round schedule, which presents its own set of challenges. Families new to the district may not be aware of the balanced schedule, which starts the school year in mid-July instead of late August. Current families may have children in school at Graham but older children at a school with a more traditional schedule. Also, the schedule itself means that registration is occurring throughout the year, making it hard to get a consistent headcount of students.

For the most part, Hood is quite busy adjusting to his new role, welcoming parents during the school's open house and working with staff members both old and new. His focus for his first year as principal is to ensure that his students have the tools that they need to be lifelong learners and building relationships among students, staff and parents.

"We want all students to have an adult they can count on, that they're comfortable with," Hood said. "We're the Graham All-Stars, so we're putting it as 'All kids have that all-star that they can go to,' if they need that person."

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Hood is one of three new principals in District 186, with Jennifer Butcher at Ridgely Elementary and Chelsey Ziebler at Jefferson Middle School being the others. Here's a look at the background of all three and what they bring to the table as new principals:

Chris Hood, Graham Elementary School

Tenure with District 186: 20 years

Prior jobs: Fifth-grade teacher at Feitshans-Edison, teacher at Black Hawk, administrative intern at Grant, assistant principal at Ball Charter

Plans for the school: "We're focusing on relationships ‒ not only relationships from student to student, but also student to staff and staff to family.

The hope for our students is that they can show growth in everything they can do – whether it's a statewide test, a district test or just building those relationships between each other. We're looking to develop the students that are making the best choices when nobody else is looking. We're looking for them to learn what respect is for themselves, others and property."

Jennifer Butcher, Ridgely Elementary School

Tenure with District 186: 14 years

Past jobs: Teacher, assistant principal at Feitshans, assistant principal at Early Learning Center

Plans for the school: "I am looking forward to meeting and building relationships with the staff, students and families at Ridgely Elementary School.

I’m hoping to continue to build on the positive school culture and contribute to making the school an inviting, welcoming, safe place for all."

Chelsey Ziebler, Jefferson Middle School

Tenure with District 186: 12 years, spent two in Ball-Chatham School District

Past jobs: Teacher at Lanphier, assistant principal at Iles, district gifted program coordinator, principal at Glenwood Elementary

Plans for the school: "This year I look forward to building relationships with everyone in our school community, and creating a welcoming space for everyone in our new addition!"