In a school where diversity thrives, and no two days are ever the same, the leadership duo of Mary Beth Goff and Griffin Groves have found a way to lead Unity Point Elementary with both heart and precision. It's a school where over 650 students fill the halls, bringing with them a tapestry of cultures, experiences, and perspectives—much like the school’s foundation itself.

Yet, guiding such a school with its vast differences isn’t the work of just one person. Unity Point decided to split the traditional role of principal into two key positions, creating a dynamic partnership where each leader plays to their strengths. Griffin, the Dean of Students, handles much of the day-today interactions with students and their families, ensuring the well-being of each child. Meanwhile, Mary Beth oversees the instructional side of the house as the Principal of Instruction, taking care of the educators and making sure the curriculum evolves with the times.

Despite having their own unique roles, the two work together seamlessly, passing the ball back and forth like seasoned soccer players—both of them, incidentally, having roots in athletics. “It’s like a no-look pass,” I joke, noting how he often turns to Mary Beth for advice and insight, especially since she previously held his current role. Having been in the trenches, she knows exactly what support he needs and when he needs it.

Griffin is no stranger to the challenges of education. His journey started as a third-grade teacher in Lawrenceville, Illinois, before moving on to teach middle school physical education and math in Vincennes, Indiana, and then returning to his home state to take on the role of athletic director and teacher in Galatia. Through his experiences, he’s come to understand the importance of relationships—whether he’s organizing fire drills or handling the delicate task of student discipline, it's the connections with students that keep him grounded.

“I always knew I wanted to work with kids,” Griffin recalls. Although he briefly flirted with the idea of a career in physical therapy, it didn’t take long for him to realize that teaching was his true calling. “The family business,” as he fondly refers to it, given that both of his parents were educators. His path wasn’t always straightforward, but it ultimately led him to Unity Point, a place he describes as “different in a positive way.”

And Griffin isn’t the only one with a rich and varied background. Mary Beth’s professional journey is every bit as eclectic. With roots in Kansas City, her early work was in psychiatric hospitals and day treatment centers for children in foster care. But it wasn’t long before she found her passion in education, spending 16 years teaching in Cairo, Illinois, before pursuing a PhD focused on chronic absenteeism. Now, in her role as Principal of Instruction, she’s committed to shaping the academic success of every child who walks through the doors.

But her vision doesn’t stop at academics—Mary Beth is a fierce advocate for the "whole child" approach, which means seeing students as more than just learners, but as complex individuals who need care and attention in every aspect of their lives. This philosophy has guided her work at Unity Point, a place she’s proud to call home, both as an educator and as a parent of a recent graduate.

In many ways, Unity Point is a reflection of the larger world. With a student population that includes children from families affiliated with Southern Illinois University, as well as those from the rural areas within our district, the school offers a rich cultural tapestry that’s as diverse as the children it serves. “We’re preparing our kids for the real world,” Mary Beth says, noting how Unity Point teaches respect, empathy, and understanding.

As for the future, both Griffin and Mary Beth are optimistic. With their partnership solidified, they’re focused on making Unity Point not just a place of learning but a hub for the community. “We want this school to be the compass point for everyone,” Griffin adds. “What matters most is that every student feels seen, supported, and prepared for what’s to come,” explains Mary Beth.

Indeed, under the dual leadership of Griffin and Mary Beth, Unity Point seems poised to not just teach students, but to mold future leaders. Leaders who, much like their own teachers, will know how to navigate the complexities of the world with both intellect and empathy.