Michelle Mueller, who has served as regional superintendent of schools for the Regional Office of Education 40 for the past four years, is immensely grateful for the opportunity to have an impact on her community's educational endeavors.
“My experience in this position has been very rewarding,” Mueller told West Central Reporter. “I have the opportunity to help shape education by advocating for the districts I serve by having discussions with legislators and giving feedback related to proposed laws and mandates. My favorite part of the job is getting into all the school districts and seeing the hard work and dedication that our administrators, teachers and students put into their daily work.”
Mueller was appointed regional superintendent in 2015 after the previous position-holder retired early from his elected term. The Regional Office of Education 40 serves the counties of Calhoun, Greene, Jersey and Macoupin.
Michelle Mueller
“My goal is to promote and support learning environments that result in a top-notch education for all students; to secure and develop resources (fiscal, human, community and technology) that lead to that goal; to develop and maintain an organization based on trust, communication, critical thinking and collaboration; and to ensure the highest level of service and satisfaction,” Mueller said.
Born and raised in Bunker Hill, Mueller was not always in the education field. She obtained a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville (SIUE) and managed several large medical practices. After several years she decided she wanted to become a teacher and went back to SIUE to work on obtaining a master’s degree in elementary education.
Mueller has served as a classroom teacher in grades kindergarten through junior high school, technology director and principal.
“I love working with students,” Mueller said. “There is nothing more rewarding that seeing success through a child's eyes.”
In addition to being regional superintendent, Mueller helps the community in a variety of ways. She provides adult education services (GED) in three towns in her region, is in charge of two alternative schools serving students in grades 6-12, and partners with local agencies to provide awareness nights. She is part of the community advisory group for behavioral awareness through St. Francis Hospital and is a community partner with Jerseyville Hospital.
Mueller has previously served as an area chair for the Illinois Association of Regional School Superintendents and currently serves as board member for the Macoupin County CEO program, the Illinois Association of County Officials, and the AIM (Academics - Integrity - Marksmanship) program.
When she’s not working or contributing to the community, Mueller enjoys reading, going for long walks and bicycling.
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