Staff Spotlight: Billy Niepert, Mitchell

By Brayden Cook '26

Every week throughout the 2025-26 school year, Granite City Community School District #9 will be highlighting a staff member for going above and beyond to give students a positive experience.

This week’s staff highlight is Billy Niepert.

Niepert is a 6th-grade teacher at Mitchell Elementary School and has been working in the Granite City School District for 23 years.

Where did you go to school?
I received my bachelor’s degree from Fontbonne University and my master’s degree in Education from McKendree University. I also have endorsements in Administration and Reading from McKendree.

What is your favorite part about teaching 6th grade?
Sixth grade has definitely been a change for me since this is my first year teaching the grade level. It’s kind of like being a first-year teacher again—learning a new curriculum and learning the behaviors of sixth graders. After a few months in, I am really enjoying it. With the kids being a little older and more mature, it’s been fun forming deeper relationships with them.

What is it like working with family?
Working with family is a fun experience. I had the pleasure of working with my wife, Dr. Niepert, at Mitchell for several years when she was the technology teacher. We still talk nightly about our days and the struggles and accomplishments we experience. It’s nice that we can vent to each other and understand what the other is going through. We also share thoughts and ideas. I’ve never gotten the chance to work with my mother at Maryville, but I’m sure she would take care of me like she always has. 

Favorite food?
I am definitely a pizza guy and still love a good Pantera’s pizza.

What do you like to do in your free time?
In my spare time, I enjoy going to the gym, hunting, and spending time with family and friends.

Favorite memory from your time in the district?
The constant good memory I have every year is watching my students grow. Seeing them mature academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally is always rewarding.

How would you describe your experience as a college student–athlete?
Being a college student–athlete was a great experience. I had the privilege to play college baseball, and balancing school, practices, games, and workouts was challenging. But it helped me mature and develop a strong work ethic. The experience gave me great memories and prepared me for the future—I knew if I could handle that, I could handle just about anything later in life.

If you would like to nominate a deserving staff member, please email: information@gcsd9.net