Staff Spotlight: Eric Mitchell, GCHS

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 Eric Mitchell.

Mitchell is an Assistant Principal at Granite City High School and has been working for GCSD9 for six years and formerly worked at Coordinated Youth.

Where did you go to school?
I went to high school at Collinsville High School and I have degrees from SIUE and Webster University.

How do you make sure students feel seen, heard, and understood at school?
The students play a key role in my day here at GCHS. I value my interactions with them, as they are helping me be a better human. I try to be consistently present, approachable, and intentional about our relationships, which hopefully make them feel like they belong and that their experiences here at GCHS truly matter.

You grew up in a town of purple, but your heart bleeds red, how does it feel to grow up a Kahok, but now be a Warrior?
I feel like I’ve got the best of both worlds. My journey has been awesome, filled with support and friendships aplenty. Both experiences have played a major role in my success.

What does Black History Month mean to you personally, and why do you think it’s important in schools?
Black History Month is important because it provides intentional space to recognize the contributions, history, and overall resilience of Black Americans that are often underrepresented in traditional curriculum. I feel that this helps students develop a more accurate and inclusive understanding of our country. Black History Month strengthens identity, belonging, and engagement, while for the broader school culture, reinforcing that every group’s history and achievements matter.

Are there lessons from the soccer fields that you apply when working with students and staff?
I’ve learned that success comes from teamwork, good communication, and consistent effort. On the field, every player has a role, and when one person improves, the whole team benefits - just like at school where students and staff contribute in different but equally important ways.

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