Message from Dr. Bannister

I cannot express what an honor it is for me to be the new principal of Delores M. Moye Elementary School. 

I would like to begin by informing you of the path that brought me here.  

I majored in psychology during my undergraduate studies and, upon graduating, worked with children who were wards of the state of Illinois, helping meet their emotional needs while teaching them life skills.  I enjoyed my work but, in the back of my mind, I always thought about becoming an educator in a school setting.  

I went back to school and formally began my educational journey 16 years ago in National City, CA, as a 5th grade teacher while my wife completed her naval duties in the area.  We

moved back to Illinois, where I then spent the next six years in the Pattonville (MO) School District teaching 3rd, 4th & 5th grades, which I absolutely loved.  Once I obtained my administrative degree (SIU-E), I had the pleasure of spending the next two years in the Ferguson-Florissant (MO) School District as a K-6 Administrative Intern.  From there, I served the students and families of Alton High School as Assistant Principal for seven years until the opportunity presented itself to once again work with elementary students.  During the latter part of my time in Alton, I completed my Educational Leadership doctoral work at Maryville University in St. Louis.  

My goal as principal of Moye Elementary is to provide an environment where students feel safe and encouraged to become the best learners possible, where teachers and staff are supported as they provide meaningful opportunities for learning, and parents are active partners in our students’ educational journey.

Respectfully,

John Bannister, Ed.D.