RGSD welcomes Gregory D. Turner as the new leader of RGSD’s Success Academy Alternative Program for the 2025-26 school year.
In his role as an assistant principal for Riverview Gardens High School and the leader of Success Academy, Turner will oversee the district’s alternative education programs and serve as the district’s hearing officer. He will support teachers in maintaining instructional focus and improving student achievement. He will also assist in the development, implementation and maintenance of a positive school climate.
“A warm welcome to our new assistant principal. We are thrilled to have him join the Ramily and are ready to build a vibrant, supportive school community together,” said Dr. Jarrett Smith, principal of Riverview Gardens High School.
Turner is a seasoned educator with over 19 years of experience. His strengths include curriculum development, assessment design, instruction and district-level strategic planning.
Turner previously served as the competency-based education program coordinator with East Saint Louis District 189, where he was responsible for planning, training, coordination and logistics. He also served as a social science content curriculum specialist for grades K-12 in East Saint Louis.
From 2011 to 2015, Turner served as an adjunct professor of Early American History at Kaskaskia College in Centralia, Illinois.
Turner earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Workforce and Development from Southern Illinois University - Carbondale. He obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in History from Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville and a Master of Arts degree in Education from McKendree University in Lebanon, Illinois.
“I truly believe two of the most important things in life are your character and your education,” said Turner.
Before entering the field of education, Turner served in the United States Air Force for ten years as an aircraft mechanic. He served as a key member of the N.A.T.O. Tactical Evaluation Team.
“I take great pride in the fact that I served this country by serving in the U.S. Air Force,” Turner said. “I’ve been all over the world from Chicago to Japan.”
Turner has three children, two boys and a daughter.
In his spare time, he enjoys reading and listening to books and podcasts.