Administrators

Kevin Shubnell - Principal

Kevin Shubnell is a seasoned educational leader currently serving as Assistant Principal at Grosse Pointe North High School. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Kevin brings a wealth of experience as an administrator, educator, and program director. Since July 2024, he has led academic initiatives at North, fostering a culture of high expectations, managing student support services, and overseeing school safety in collaboration with local law enforcement. His administrative background also includes experience as Interim Assistant Principal at Hazel Park Junior High and as Director of the Grosse Pointe Summer Pointes enrichment program. Kevin began his career as a dedicated social studies teacher in both Grosse Pointe and Hazel Park, where he was honored as Teacher of the Year. His leadership development includes participation in the Aspiring Principals Leadership Academy and training from the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence. A graduate of the University of Michigan–Dearborn (M.A. in Educational Leadership) and University of Detroit Mercy (B.A. in Social Studies Education), Kevin is deeply committed to student-centered leadership, community building, and continuous school improvement.

Phone: 313.432.3213     Email: shubnek@gpschools.org

Meloney Cargill - Assistant Principal

Meloney Cargill grew up in Detroit, Michigan where she attended the prestigious Cass Technical High School. After graduating from Cass Tech, she discovered that she wanted to pursue a degree in education where she could make a difference in the lives of young people. She obtained her BA from Michigan State University, and while there she spent a year studying Japanese and working for Biwako Kisen Ltd, as a student ambassador. In addition, she also completed a study abroad program in the West Indies. Meloney eventually began teaching at Clintondale High School, in Clinton Township, MI, where she taught for 15 years.

While there, she developed the Japanese Language program, served as the World Language adviser; she has also worked with the Clinton Township Sister City -Yasu-cho, Japan building relations between both communities and their students. She has also served as the Student Council Adviser, on the School Improvement Committee, and on the North Central Accreditation Team. She has served in the capacity of Assistant Principal at Clintondale High School for 5 years, where they have been recognized as the first school to create a Flipped high school. Their goal is to give every student an opportunity to succeed. Meloney has also served as the  High School Principal where she has worked for the past 9 years. She has also presented at the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), The Great Lakes Bay Leadership Academy, and the Michigan Flip Teacher Conference. Their school has also been featured on CNN, Bloomberg EDU, The Teaching Channel, Forbes Magazine, and others. She understands that not only is the world changing, but that education is changing, therefore how we teach must change as well.

Meloney earned both her Masters in Reading and Language, and her Education Specialist Degrees from Oakland University. She also earned her Bachelors in English and Social Science from Michigan State University. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, swimming, playing tennis, playing golf and spending time with her family.

Phone: 313.432.3211     Email: cargilm@gpschools.org

Samantha Lamberti-McGarth - Assistant Principal

Samantha Lamberti McGrath is an experienced school administrator currently serving as Assistant Principal at Parcells Middle School. She began her career in Dearborn Public Schools in 2007 as an early childhood educator and teacher of English language learners, later moving into administration as an assistant principal. During this time, she also spent several years with Teach For America, where she supported teacher development as a summer training program manager. Sam’s administrative experience spans elementary, middle, and high school levels. Since July 2020, she has served at Parcells Middle School, leading student support initiatives, restorative practices, and daily school operations. A lifelong resident of Grosse Pointe, Sam is proud to support students, staff, and families in her home community. We are excited for her to also provide a familiar face for our eighth grade students joining the North family this fall.

Phone: 313.432.3213    Email: lambers@gpschools.org

Jim Ellis - Athletic Director

Jim Ellis has a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University and Bachelor’s degrees in Education and Criminal Justice from Wayne State and Michigan State Universities. He has several years of educational administration experience serving in various roles for the Romeo, L’Anse Creuse and St. Clair school districts. He coached Varsity Girls Basketball and Boys Baseball for the Berkley and Troy School Districts. He comes to Grosse Pointe North after serving as Athletic Director/Assistant Principal at Saint Clair High School. 

Phone: 313.432.3255     Email: ellisji@gpschools.org

Cindy Parravano - Principal

Cindy Parravano holds a Bachelor's in teaching from Eastern Michigan University, A Master's in Sport Administration from the University of Northern Colorado, and a Master's in Education/Administration and Supervision from the University of Phoenix. Ms. Parravano served as the assistant principal at South since the 2017-2018 school year. Prior to coming to Grosse Pointe, she served 5 years as an assistant principal at Combs High School in San Tan Valley, AZ, and 8 years at Globe High School in Globe, AZ as an athletic director, assistant principal and principal.

Phone: 313-432-3504     Email: parravc@gpschools.org

Dr. Daniel Hyliard - Assistant Principal

Dr. Hyliard has been an educator for over 20 years. Dr. Hyliard earned his Bachelor of Science from the College of Natural Sciences in Earth Science from Michigan State University, a Masters of Art from the College of Education in K-12 Curriculum Development from Eastern Michigan University and completed his Educational Doctorate from Michigan State University in Educational Leadership with a dissertation focus on the implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support in Secondary Schools.  Dr. Hyliard started his career in education as a Science Teacher and has taught a variety of subjects in Science including Earth/Space Science, Astronomy, Chemistry and Physical Science. He brings a vast amount of experience in school leadership to Grosse Pointe South having served as a Middle School Assistant Principal/Athletic Director, Class Principal, Summer School Principal, AP Coordinator, and Building Principal.

Phone: 313-432-3513     Email: hyliard@gpschools.org

Katie Parent - Assistant Principal

Ms. Parent brings 11 years of experience in education, having begun her career at South as an English department classroom teacher. A graduate of the University of Michigan with a degree in English Literature, she has taught a wide range of courses, including the full freshmen and sophomore curriculum, AP Psychology, and Psychology. In 2018, she earned her Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Michigan–Dearborn. Ms. Parent’s administrative journey began with her role as Director of Summer Programming, which she has held for the past four years. Most recently, she has been serving as interim assistant principal at South.

Phone: 313-432-3511     Email: parentk@gpschools.org

Andy Rishmawi - Athletic Director

Andy Rishmawi has a Bachelor’s in Teaching from Saginaw Valley State University, a Masters in education from Marygrove and a Masters in Leadership & Supervision from the University of Phoenix. He taught Spanish at all levels at Flushing for the past 22 years.  During his time at Flushing, he served as the Varsity boys soccer coach, Varsity Wrestling coach, and Varsity girls soccer coach.  He coached at the collegiate level as well, serving as the head men's soccer coach at Saginaw Valley State University. While at Flushing, he was also the world language department head, he served as the summer school principal, and he was the spring sports athletic coordinator before being named the Athletic Director at South in the fall of 2023.

Phone: 313-432-3540     Email: rishmaa@gpschools.org

Rodger Hunwick - Principal

Rodger Hunwick has a Master’s Degree from Oakland University and a Bachelor’s Degree in History and Education from Olivet College.  Before being appointed Assistant Principal at Brownell, he taught History at Parcells Middle School for 20 years.   As a teacher, Rodger was involved in leadership roles with several curriculum initiatives.  He also spent many years coaching football and basketball in our schools.   Rodger and his wife Michelle, an elementary teacher at Maire, have 2 daughters in the Grosse Pointe Public Schools.

Phone: 313.432.3904     Email: hunwicr@gpschools.org

Renee Bialke - Assistant Principal

Ms. Renee Bialke is a student-centered, collaborative, and transformational educational leader with over 26 years of middle school experience. She currently serves as Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at St. Clair Middle School, where she has led curriculum oversight, student discipline, staff evaluation, extracurricular programming, and school climate initiatives.

Renee’s professional background reflects her deep commitment to inclusion and innovative instructional practices. She is actively involved in district leadership and strategic planning, coordinates Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), and applies restorative and trauma-informed practices to support student success. A proud resident of the Grosse Pointe community, Renee brings both professional expertise and personal investment to her role. Her leadership style is visible, approachable, and grounded in fostering positive relationships among staff, students, and families. Renee’s calm presence, self-reflective mindset, and commitment to building a positive school culture make her a strong addition to the Brownell administrative team. She will officially begin her role on August 18th.

Phone: 313.432.3911     Email: bialker@gpschools.org

Amber Schmittdiel - Principal

Ms. Amber Schmittdiel is a distinguished educational leader currently serving as the Assistant Principal of Curriculum at Tarpon Springs Middle School in Pinellas County, Florida. Her extensive background in both instructional and administrative roles has prepared her well for leadership, and she was identified as the top candidate for the Principal position at Parcells Middle School based on strong interview committee feedback.

In her current position, Amber leads impactful professional development initiatives, enhances student outcomes through strategic master scheduling, and fosters collaboration within professional learning communities. Prior to this, she served as Assistant Principal at Pinellas Park Middle School, where she successfully guided departmental advancements and oversaw rigorous academic programming.

Amber’s earlier experience as an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Instructional Staff Developer and ESOL teacher reflects her deep commitment to inclusive, culturally responsive education. Her leadership is marked by a calm, steady demeanor, strategic foresight, and a passion for instructional excellence. She values coaching, mentoring, and being a present, engaged leader – all qualities that align closely with the culture and aspirations of Parcells Middle School.

Her proactive approach to student growth, skill in navigating complex student needs, and ability to connect with diverse stakeholders underscore her readiness to lead. Amber is enthusiastic about returning to her home state of Michigan and is eager to serve and support the Parcells community.

Phone: 313.432.4604     Email: schmita@gpschools.org

Debbie Redlin - Assistant Principal

Debbie Redlin has an Education Specialist Degree in Administration and Supervision from Wayne State University; a Masters Degree from Marygrove College in The Art of Teaching and her undergraduate degree from Madonna University in English and Journalism with a minor in Elementary Education.  She also holds an endorsement in middle school language arts. Debbie has two daughters, one attending Western Michigan University and the other serving as a United States Marine.

Phone: 313.432.4611     Email: redlind@gpschools.org

Joe Spryszak - Assistant Principal

During his tenure as Assistant Principal at Grosse Pointe South High School, Joseph Spryszak played a pivotal role in leading key initiatives and consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to students, staff, and the broader school community.

Mr. Spryszak is an experienced educator and administrator with over 37 years of service in public education, including the last eight years in the Grosse Pointe Public School System. His career began in Hamtramck and his experience includes Detroit, Troy, Southfield, Birmingham, and Grosse Pointe. He has taught high school English, social studies, journalism, and yearbook, and has coached varsity-level girls’ softball, boys’ baseball, and both girls’ and boys’ basketball. Joseph is certified by the International Institute of Restorative Practices, equipping him to support teachers, administrators, and students in building positive school climates. He holds a BA, MA, and Ed.S. from Wayne State University.

With his recent experience as Interim Principal of Parcells, he will provide calm, steady and insightful leadership during this transition.

Phone: 313.432.4619     Email: spryszj@gpschools.org

David White - Assistant Principal

David White has over a decade of experience as a teacher, coach and K-8 principal. He currently serves as a Principal of Detroit Community Schools, where he has implemented multi-tiered systems of support and PBIS (positive behavior) supporting a diverse and vibrant school culture. He has led professional development on literacy improvement, culturally responsive instruction, and data analysis using M-STEP and NWEA results. He has also coordinated after-school and summer-school programming, family engagement events, and facility use to foster inclusion, involvement and a sense of belonging for students, staff and families.

David shared that his leadership style emphasizes visibility, collaboration and communication. He holds a Master of Educational Leadership degree from Eastern Michigan University and a Bachelor’s degree from Wayne State, as well as certifications as a School Administrator, Educator and Highly Qualified Teacher - Title I. He will officially begin his role on August 18th.

Phone: 313.432.4617     Email: whited@gpschools.org

Sara Dirkse - Principal

Prior to coming to Pierce Middle School, I spent three years as the principal at Woodworth Middle School in Dearborn.  Before that I spent five years as a high school assistant principal in Dearborn Public Schools and Gull Lake Community Schools.  I started my career in education in Rockford Public Schools as a high school teacher and swim coach. I completed my undergraduate course work at Oakland University and my masters degree at Michigan State University.  Go Green!

I have always been interested in middle school, and have loved my middle school experiences thus far.  This is an important and uncertain time for our students. We are the bridge between elementary and high school; I believe as middle school educators we have a unique opportunity to set our students on a path of success both socially and emotionally, as well as academically before they step into high school.

My life outside of school is filled with family.  My husband and I have two daughters, a seven year old, and an 18 month old.  We love spending time at the pool and playing in the backyard.  My family and I were drawn to the area because of its great sense of community and strong commitment to its public schools.  

I enjoy building relationships with students and families.  I have quickly learned what a special place Pierce is, and I am looking forward to continuing and growing our successes as a school community.

Phone: 313.432.4704     Email: dirkses@gpschools.org

Judy Gaffrey - Assistant Principal

Judy Gaffrey began her teaching career as a social studies teacher at Waverly High School in Lansing. After two successful years at Waverly, she returned home to the Metro Detroit area and continued her career as a social studies teacher at Allen Park. While in Allen Park, she also attended Wayne State University where she earned a Master's degree in Educational Leadership. In the fall of 2004, she joined the staff of Grosse Pointe Public schools as the Coordinator of the Community High School. In September 2006, she joined the staff of Pierce Middle School as Assistant Principal.

Phone: 313.432.4711     Email: gaffrej@gpschools.org

Dr. Lisa Rheaume - Defer Principal

As an alumna of the Grosse Pointe Public Schools, Lisa Rheaume is excited to be part of the team at Defer Elementary School! Lisa started her career as a 5th grade teacher at Kerby Elementary school in 2006 and has spent her entire teaching career in the Grosse Pointe Public Schools, most recently at Mason Elementary school, before being selected as the principal at Defer Elementary School. Lisa earned her Bachelors of Arts in Education from the University of Michigan, Masters of Arts in Education from Michigan State University, and an Education Specialist Degree from Oakland University. In 2017, Lisa earned her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Oakland University. Lisa is passionate about developing tomorrow’s leaders by creating a learning environment inclusive of all learning styles. She believes by partnering with parents, staff, and students we can empower our students to be leaders and learners each and every day. Lisa is honored to serve and collaborate with the members of the community as the leader of Defer.

Phone: 313.432.4004     Email: rheauml@gpschools.org

Lisa Dougherty- Supervisor of Student Services

Lisa Dougherty is honored to serve as the Supervisor of Student Services, contributing to the community where she grew up and where she and her husband are raising their two daughters. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan. Lisa began her career as a school social worker and later served as a transition coordinator, working with children, young adults, teachers, parents, and community agencies in Wayne County’s special education programs.

Lisa also earned an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Wayne State University, along with Supervisor/Director approval and a central office administrator certificate. She served as a Special Education Supervisor for three years before joining the Grosse Pointe Public School System in 2019. Lisa is committed to fostering strong partnerships with parents and families, valuing transparent and empathetic communication, and creating an inclusive and collaborative learning environment for all students.

Phone: 313.432.5670     Email: doughel@gpschools.org

Sara Meier - Director of Tuition-Based Preschool Services

Sara Meier is the Director of Preschool Services with over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, specializing in the development and implementation of high-quality programming for children aged 2.5 to 5 years old. With a strong passion for nurturing young minds, Sara excels at creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging atmosphere where children can thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.  As an alumna of Grosse Pointe Public Schools, Sara has a deep commitment to her community, fostering strong connections with families and staff. 

Throughout her career, Sara has led teams of educators and staff, focusing on fostering collaborative environments that promote professional development and educational excellence. Her expertise spans curriculum development, staff training, family engagement, and operations management, ensuring that every child receives the best start to their educational journey. Sara holds a Bachelors of Arts in Family and Community Services from Michigan State University, and is an advocate for continuous improvement in early education settings, always striving to create an enriching environment for both children and staff.

Phone: 313.432.3809     Email: meiers@gpschools.org

Crystal Fletcher - Director of School Age Child Care and Homeless and Foster Liaison

Crystal Fletcher has been a dedicated member of the Grosse Pointe Public Schools community since 2010, serving in a variety of roles throughout her tenure. She began her journey as the On-Site Director at Poupard Elementary and soon added the position of a building substitute teacher while completing her Bachelor's of Science in Elementary Education at Wayne State University.

Over the years, Crystal has demonstrated her versatility and commitment to the district, taking on positions such as Camp O'Fun On-Site Director and Billing Coordinator for Childcare. In 2017, she was promoted to Director of School Age Child Care, where she currently oversees all elementary and middle school Kids Club programs, as well as the district’s growing summer camp.

In 2023, Crystal took on an additional role as the district’s Homeless and Foster Liaison, a responsibility she embraced with pride. Her diverse experience and leadership continue to positively impact students, families, and staff across the district.

Phone: 313.432.3009    Email: fletchc@gpschools.org

Vanessa Coverdill- Supervisor of Special Education

Lisa Dougherty is honored to serve as the Supervisor of Student Services, contributing to the community where she grew up and where she and her husband are raising their two daughters. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan. Lisa began her career as a school social worker and later served as a transition coordinator, working with children, young adults, teachers, parents, and community agencies in Wayne County’s special education programs.

Lisa also earned an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Wayne State University, along with Supervisor/Director approval and a central office administrator certificate. She served as a Special Education Supervisor for three years before joining the Grosse Pointe Public School System in 2019. Lisa is committed to fostering strong partnerships with parents and families, valuing transparent and empathetic communication, and creating an inclusive and collaborative learning environment for all students.

Phone: 313.432.5104     Email: coverdv@gpschools.org

Lisa Aouad- Supervisor of Special Education

Lisa Aouad serves as the Supervisor of Student Services for Resource Programs and the Emotional Impairment (EI) Categorical Program. Before coming to GPPSS, she worked as a Categorical Teacher for Students with EI in Comstock Public Schools and Macomb Intermediate School DIstrict, was an adjunct professor at Baker College, and worked in Center Line Public Schools as an elementary teacher, resource program teacher, transition coordinator and teacher consultant. In GPPSS she has worked at Mason as an Elementary Resource Program Teacher and at North High School as a Categorical Teacher for Students with Emotional Impairments.

Lisa holds an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts from Macomb Community College; a BA in Education from Western Michigan University (Elementary all subjects, K-8 self-contained, Emotional Impairment 7-12, Psychology 7-12); and took additional coursework in English as a Second Language from Wayne State University. She also holds a Master of Arts in Teaching Reading and Language Arts, with additional coursework in Early Childhood and Autism Spectrum Disorder from Oakland University. Most recently, she completed the Grand Valley State University Special Education Certification Program, with full approval for Special Education Director, Supervisor, and K-12 Principal.

Her professional goals include working collaboratively with all stakeholders and actively fostering professional growth to ensure high quality special education programs and services for eligible students, ages 0-26. Fun fact: she serves as the Girls Varsity GP Blue Dolphins Synchronized Swimming Head Coach, and previously served as a Parcells Middle School Blown Fuses FirstTech Robotics Teacher Liaison/Mentor.
 

Phone: 313.432.5590     Email: aouadl@gpschools.org

Kelly Keyes - High School Categorical and Transition Program Supervisor

Kelly Keyes is our High School Categorical and Transition Program Supervisor. She will lead the ASD, CI, and Post-High programs at both North and South High Schools. Kelly has more than 20 years in education. From 2021–24, she served as a Special Education Supervisor with Monroe County ISD, overseeing preschool and K–12 categorical programs. In this role, she supervised and evaluated professional and paraprofessional staff, developed procedures for compliance with special education rules, and created systems for staff training and family engagement. Most recently, she served as an Autism Consultant at Monroe County ISD, a role she helped create in partnership with the Director of Special Education. There she developed countywide professional learning, supported the START Grant, coached staff in evidence-based strategies, and created student support plans. Prior to her leadership roles, Kelly worked as a teacher consultant, an ASD teacher, and a resource room teacher.

Email: keyesk@gpschools.org