Our Principals
Mr. Carpenter
Cedar Trails Elementary Principal
Email
616-696-9884 x2900
Mr. Carpenter is the principal of Cedar Trails Elementary, serving PreK through 1st grade students.
With 23 years of experience in education, Mr. Carpenter has taught 1st, 2nd, and 4th grades, bringing a wealth of knowledge and dedication to his role as a leader in early childhood education.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Grand Valley State University, a Master’s in Education with an Early Childhood endorsement from Aquinas College, and an administrative certification from Grand Valley State University.
Mr. Carpenter is committed to fostering a positive and enriching learning environment for Cedar Trails students and families.
Mrs. Cook
Beach Elementary Principal
Email
616-696-0350 x3900
Mrs. Cook is the principal of Beach Elementary School, proudly supporting 2nd and 3rd grade students. She stepped into this leadership role in August 2022 after dedicating over 20 years as a teacher in Cedar Springs. Most recently, she taught 3rd grade at Beach Elementary, while her teaching career has also included supporting preschool through 2nd grade students.
Mrs. Cook earned a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Central Michigan University, with a focus on Early Childhood Development and Language Arts. She holds two Master’s degrees in the Art of Teaching and Educational Leadership, as well as a school administration certificate from Grand Valley State University.
Beyond her role at Beach Elementary, Mrs. Cook enjoys spending time with her husband, Mike, and their three children. Alayna, a 2023 graduate of CSHS, attends Central Michigan University, while Ayden ('25) and Landen ('27) are students at Cedar Springs High School. In her free time, you’ll often find her at CMU or a hockey rink, supporting her children’s passions.
Mrs. Cook looks forward to learning and growing alongside your children as they walk through the doors of Beach Elementary.
Mr. Ilieff
Cedar View Elementary Interim Principal
Email
616-696-9102 x4900
Mr. Ilieff serves as the interim principal of Cedar View Elementary, supporting fourth- and fifth-grade students. He is in his 12th year in education and previously taught both fourth and fifth grades.
Mr. Ilieff earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education and his master’s degree in K-12 administration from Michigan State University. He is committed to creating a positive school culture where students feel safe, supported and encouraged to grow.
Outside of school, he enjoys spending time with his wife and their 1-year-old son.