Geneka Gully

Building Principal

Geneka Gully is the new principal for Lucas Crossing School Complex. She comes to Normandy from Decatur, Illinois, where she served as principal at South Shores Elementary. She has also held leadership roles in Springfield, and East St. Louis, Illinois. Gully received her bachelor's degree from MacMurray College and a Master of Arts in Education Administration from Lindenwood University. She has also served as a member of the Illinois Principals Association.

Dr. Kesha Whitley

Assistant Principal

Kesha Whitley, Assistant Principal, has more than 16 years of experience in education and a strong commitment to student achievement. She believes all students are capable of learning at the highest level possible when they and their families are given a clear vision of expectations and support for their goals. Dr. Whitley says she became a teacher to give to her students what was given to her — the key to unlock endless possibilities and reach their full potential. 

Dr. Whitley began her career as a second- and third-grade teacher and literacy coach in the Wellston School District. She moved on to the Riverview Gardens School District as an instructional coach, and then to Washington School as a reading interventionist. The best part of her job, she says, is seeing the faces of our future and knowing she is helping to mold tomorrow’s doctors, lawyers, and maybe, the next president. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Harris-Stowe State University and two graduate degrees from Webster University: a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction, and an educational specialist degree in Educational Leadership Administration. In addition, she has a K-12 Reading Certification from Webster. She earned her doctorate degree in educational administration from Maryville University.

Jill Badalamenti

Assistant Principal 

Jill Badalamenti, Assistant Principal, has more than 18 years of experience in education in a variety of educational settings and grade levels. She believes in a world of positivity, lies a world of possibilities. It's in these possibilities that our students can see the world in a way they never imagined. Ms. Badalamenti believes that when we set our goals on the future, we can empower our students and build a love of learning that spans generations. 

Ms. Badalamenti began her career as a fourth grade teacher and quickly became eMINTS certified just a few years later. She moved on to become a Technology Director and instructor from grades K-12. She has also served as a Technology Integration Coach and most recently was the Educational technology Director for Normandy Schools Collaborative. The best part of her job, she says, is engaging with our youth to help them see and achieve their fullest potential. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Lindenwood University and two graduate degrees: a masters degree in Computer Science in Education and a masters in Educational Administration. 

Dr. Karessa Morrow

Assistant Principal