Staff Spotlight: Stephanie Boyer, GCSD9

By Chris Mitchell '95

Every Friday throughout the 2026-27 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 spotlight features GCSD9 Supervisor of Special Education Stephanie Boyer.

Boyer joined GCSD9 in January 1998 and taught special education for 18 years before moving into administration, where she is now in her 10th year and serves as supervisor of special education.

She earned a Bachelor of Science in Special Education from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in December 1997 and a master’s degree in educational leadership from McKendree University in 2008. Boyer was a standout goalie at SIUE for four seasons, and is the all-time leader is saves (452) and second in shutouts (22) and matches played (68).

Boyer reflects on her passion for special education, the rewards of supporting GCSD9 students and families, her deep Granite City roots, the impact of athletics and her 2019 Granite City Sports Hall of Fame induction, and her interests outside of work.

What inspired you to pursue a career in special education, and what continues to fuel your passion for helping students and families?
I was inspired after working the Summer Recreation Program at Wilson Park with Terry Mitchell.  She was a special education teacher at the time. Those summers led to classroom observations and learning more about behavior support classrooms. 

Many students enjoy school and everything it provides. Unfortunately, many students do not enjoy all aspects of the classroom. Helping students and families feel comfortable by building relationships is a goal of mine. 

As Supervisor of Special Education, what do you find most rewarding about your role, and what do you hope families understand about the support available through GCSD9? 
I enjoy seeing students succeed and grow. Being a small part of the process is very rewarding. I hope that families can see how much GCSD9 has to offer. 

As a GCHS graduate whose family has deep roots in Granite City, what does it mean to serve the students and families of your hometown?
Working with families is even more important because they become possible neighbors, friends, and the future of Granite City.

You were inducted into the Granite City Sports Hall of Fame in 2019. What did that honor mean to you, and how did athletics help shape the person and leader you are today? It’s very special to me. I’ve had the honor to play for great coaches and with amazing teammates. Fortunate to receive a scholarship for my education. Playing sports gave me confidence.  Successful athletic teams have specific roles and responsibilities for each player. Together team members problem solve and adjust as necessary. I use the same strategy working with each of our talented educational teams within the school district.

When you’re away from work, what are some of your favorite hobbies or interests?
I like to watch sporting events, especially a good soccer game, reading, and spending time with my husband and our three kids. 

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