The Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 Board of Education has approved Christine Pavlinek to be the next principal of Caseyville Elementary School beginning July 2026.

Pavlinek will follow current Caseyville Principal Chelsea Clark who will become the district’s Pre-K coordinator in the 2026-27 school year.

“We are excited to welcome Ms. Pavlinek back to the Kahok family.  For the last two years, she has served as a principal in a neighboring district, prior to that she served in various roles in our district,” said Human Resources Director Kevin Robinson.  

“Ms. Pavlinek played an integral role in our district with our instructional coaching program and curriculum implementation, which is a major strength of hers,” Robinson added.  “We are excited that she will be able to use her knowledge of our district and communities to build positive relationships with our students, staff members and families.”

Crissy Pavlinek grew up in Mattoon, Illinois.  She earned a bachelor’s degree from Southern Illinois University and a master’s degree in elementary education from University of Phoenix.

While her husband served in the United States Navy, she taught in Virginia and Florida for 11 years, primarily in the intermediate grades.  There she built a strong foundation in instruction and student learning. 

After her husband’s retirement, the family returned to Illinois to be closer to family.  At that time, she spent a year as a reading interventionist in Collinsville CUSD 10, and 5 years as an instructional coach, supporting teachers and strengthening instructional practices.

“Currently, I am in my second year as the principal of Bethalto East Primary School, where I focus on early literacy, collaboration, and building strong systems of support for both students and staff,” said Pavlinek, “I am also pursuing a doctorate at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville to continue growing in my work as a school leader.”

She believes all students can learn at high levels when they are provided with strong, engaging instruction, meaningful relationships and consistent support.

“I value creating a positive and safe learning environment where students feel known, supported and confident in taking risks as learners,” Pavlinek said. “I also believe in the importance of developing the whole child academically, socially and emotionally.

“Collaboration is a key part of my philosophy. When educators work together, reflect on their practice, and use data to guide instruction, we are able to better support all students and continuously improve our impact.”

As a principal, she likes the opportunity to support students, staff and families.

“I value the opportunity to work alongside teachers, build strong teams and partner with families to support student growth.  Watching students gain confidence, learn and succeed is what makes this work so rewarding to me.,” she said.

Pavilinek currently lives in Edwardsville with her husband and 5-year-old black lab. They have two older sons who are both away at college. One is a senior graduating this spring, and the other is a sophomore.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family. In the warmer months, she loves being outdoors, whether that is playing tennis or pickleball, swimming or walking the dog. She says being outside is something that brings her joy.

“I am also an avid reader and typically have both a professional book and a book for enjoyment that I am reading at the same time,” adds Pavlinek.

“We are excited to welcome Mrs. Pavlinek as the leader of Caseyville Elementary. She is student-centered, genuinely cares about her staff, and is committed to continuous growth socially and academically,” Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich said. “Her strengths as an educator and as a person will complement the existing Caseyville staff and further enhance the educational experience our students receive.”

“I’m excited to be back and proud to be a Kahok again. Looking forward to a great year at Caseyville Elementary and all that we will accomplish together,” said Pavlinek.