Staff Spotlight: Kari Dioneda, 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 Kari Dioneda. 

Dioneda is a 4th Grade Teacher at Mitchell Elementary School and has been working in GCSD9 for 33 years.

Where did you go to school?
I am a graduate of Granite City High School (Class of 1988) and a 1992 graduate from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.

What is your favorite part about being a 4th grade teacher?
Fourth graders are awesome! They are still eager to learn and are very motivated to please their teacher. They are funny and kind. I will miss not being around their positive energy.

You’re retiring at the end of the 2025-26 school year, what is your favorite memory while working in GCSD9?
My best memories involve the friends I have made along the way. I have taught in three different buildings over the years, and I have made life-long friendships each and every time.

What inspired you to be a teacher?I played school a lot as a kid. I had a giant chalkboard, would make class rosters, and hold class in my playroom. I guess teaching was just something I was meant to do.

Who do you look up to and why?
I look up to and will always admire my cooperating teacher, Denise Ruebhausen. She taught me everything I know. I hear her in myself every day. I am grateful to have had such an inspiring mentor.

Hobbies?
I love playing with my dog, Roger. He is most looking forward to my retirement. I also enjoy doing puzzles, building lego sets, and watching TV.

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