Katie Bevis-O'Neal Named Director of Human Resources; Laura Rogers to be Albert Cassens Principal

EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – Edwardsville Community Unit School District 7 has appointed Katie Bevis-O'Neal as director of human resources. 

Bevis-O'Neal's appointment was approved May 4 by the District 7 Board of Education. She will assume her new role July 1, 2026, after serving as principal at Albert Cassens Elementary since 2022. 

With Bevis-O'Neal's move to Central Office, Laura Rogers, who is in her second year as principal at Glen Carbon Elementary, will move to the principal role at Albert Cassens. 

“What excites me most about moving into Human Resources is the opportunity to recruit, support, and develop the people who make District 7 thrive,” said Bevis-O'Neal. “Throughout my career in education, I’ve seen firsthand that when staff feel valued, supported, and clear about expectations, they are able to empower each student to achieve personal success. The idea of contributing to that kind of environment on a broader scale is incredibly motivating and exciting to me. 

“My experience as both a classroom teacher and a principal has shaped how I approach working with and supporting others. Across both roles, I’ve developed strong skills in communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving, while learning to navigate a variety of situations. I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with diverse teams, support individuals in their growth, and make decisions that balance the needs of both people and District 7. These experiences have given me a solid foundation in fostering a positive, supportive environment while maintaining clear expectations and consistency, qualities that I believe are essential in an effective HR professional.” 

"Katie Bevis-O'Neal is District 7 through and through," said Interim Superintendent Dr. Allen Duncan, Jr. "She's a graduate of our schools, a parent of students in our buildings, and a neighbor in our community. As principal of Cassens Elementary, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the students and staff she serves every single day. That dedication, combined with her deep roots in District 7, makes her uniquely qualified to lead our human resources department. I have full confidence that Katie will bring the same heart and passion to supporting our staff that she has always shown for our kids. District 7 is fortunate to have her in this new role, and I cannot wait to see the impact she will make." 

Bevis-O'Neal began as interim principal at Cassens in January 2022 and was named permanent principal for the 2022-23 school year. 

A 2003 Edwardsville High School graduate, Bevis-O'Neal began her career in District 7 by teaching seventh grade for two years, followed by 12 years of sixth-grade science. Prior to her interim principal appointment at Cassens, Bevis-O'Neal served one semester as the district's administrative intern. 

Bevis-O'Neal holds a specialist's degree in educational administration, a master's degree in curriculum and instruction and a bachelor's degree in elementary education, all from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. 

Rogers came to District 7 after 19 years in Ridgeland School District 122 in Oak Lawn, Ill., including six as early childhood principal/director. She also served as assistant principal for Harnew Elementary School after 10 years as a classroom teacher in third, fifth, and sixth grades and as a technology instructor. 

"I am excited for the opportunity to join a grade-level building where much of my classroom teaching experience took place. I look forward to supporting and building upon the great things already happening at Cassens," said Rogers. "Through collaboration and student-focused discussions, it is my hope that our team at Cassens will continue to ensure all students grow not only academically, but also as positive members of the community. 

"It has been an absolute privilege serving as principal at Glen Carbon over the past two years. I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to the students, staff, and families of our school community. The students at Glen Carbon are surrounded by caring and committed staff members who consistently prioritize the needs of children every day. The strong parent involvement has helped create a true sense of community and partnership between school and home. I have no doubt that our Mighty Miners will continue to make me proud. I will truly miss their smiles!" 

"We are thrilled to announce Laura Rogers as the next principal of Cassens Elementary," Duncan said. "In her two years with District 7, Laura has demonstrated exceptional leadership at Glen Carbon Elementary, building a strong school culture, supporting her staff and keeping students at the center of every decision. She has earned the trust and respect of everyone in our district, and we have full confidence that she will bring that same passion and dedication to the Cassens community." 

Rogers earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Illinois State University and a master's degree in education administration from Governors State University. 

The district will begin a search for a new principal at Glen Carbon Elementary.