Lyniya Pruitt
School Secretary
Hello! My name is Lyniya Pruitt, and I am the secretary here at Huffman Elementary. I’ve been at Huffman for about a year and a half now, and I am really enjoying it!
I am a District 187 baby through and through. I attended school in the district from kindergarten through 12th grade, so it is very special to be able to come back, be a part of the district, and help guide the next generation.
I attended Lincoln University of Missouri (The REAL LU!), where I received my bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a minor in African American Studies.
When I’m not at school, I love to shop, do makeup, and listen to Beyoncé! I hope we have a marvelous school year!
Stephanie Arendell
4th Grade Teacher
Hi everyone! I'm excited to start my 33rd year with Cahokia School District, where I've spent most of my career teaching 4th grade. When I'm not at school, you'll usually find me cooking, shopping, working in my yard, or spending time with my family and my four dogs. I love to laugh, try new restaurants, and make the most of every day.
My favorite part of teaching is getting to know my students, building strong relationships, and watching them grow throughout the year. One thing I've learned after all these years is that you never know what each school day will bring—and that's part of what makes this job so much fun!
Stephanie Davis
5th Grade Teacher
Hello! My name is Stephanie Davis, and I am proud to be a 5th-grade teacher at Huffman Elementary School. While this is my fourth year at Huffman, I have dedicated 27 years to our district, gaining a wealth of experience across multiple grade levels. Throughout my career, I have had the pleasure of teaching kindergarten, 1st grade, 5th grade, and 7th-grade science, including time at Penniman and the middle school. I hold both a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Instructional Technology from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE).
Outside of the classroom, I am a devoted wife and mother to my two children, Luke and Madilyn. As a family, we love camping, exploring the outdoors, and staying active with sports. Having played softball at SIUE, I carry a healthy competitive spirit and a lifelong love for the game. Whether I am watching a baseball game or playing softball, sports remain a significant part of my life and personal drive.
My passion for teaching stems from a genuine desire to see my students thrive. Nothing brings me more satisfaction than witnessing a student’s growth—not just academically, but athletically and socially as well. I especially cherish those “aha!” moments when a concept finally clicks and a student gains the confidence to master a challenge they once found difficult. I am honored to be a part of their journey toward success.
Ashley Gee
4th Grade Teacher
Hi! My name is Ashley Gee, and I am so excited to begin my fourth year teaching at Huffman! I have been an educator for 19 years, and teaching is something I truly love. One of my favorite parts of being a teacher is watching my students learn, grow, and discover new things throughout the school year.
When I’m not teaching, you can usually find me curled up with a good book or cheering on my favorite team—the St. Louis Cardinals! ⚾️📚 I also enjoy spending time with my family. I have two adult children and a granddaughter, and my son is currently serving in the U.S. Navy.
I’m looking forward to another wonderful year at Huffman and can’t wait to see all the amazing things my students will accomplish this school year!
Emma Kutz
Music Teacher
My name is Emma Kutz, and I am the Music Teacher at Helen Huffman Elementary School. I received my bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Illinois State University in 2023, and I am going into my third year of teaching.
I spend my free time with my family, friends, and my dog, Sriracha. I also enjoy painting, kayaking, and going on long walks.
My favorite part about being a music teacher is discovering my students’ hidden talents. Some of the quietest people who enter my classroom have the most beautiful voices, and some of the most energetic young souls can keep the steadiest of beats. Together, we make meaningful connections to music that last a lifetime while creating a community with those around us.
Let’s go, Huskies! 🐾
Ms. Augustine
School Social Worker
Hi, Huffman Huskies! I’m Ms. Augustine, the School Social Worker, and I’m so excited to be back at Huffman for my second year!
I love being part of the Huffman Husky family and getting to know each student as an individual. One of my favorite parts of my job is building meaningful relationships with students and helping them discover just how capable they are. I enjoy finding ways to help each student feel supported, confident, and successful while watching them grow both socially and emotionally.
When I’m not at school, you can usually find me spending time with family and friends, watching or attending sporting events, staying active, or playing golf. I also enjoy traveling, fashion, and planning events.
I’m looking forward to another fun-filled year of learning, growing, and making great memories with our Huffman students and families. I can’t wait to see what this year brings! 🐾
Megan Doolittle
Physical Education Teacher
Hello, everyone! My name is Miss Doolittle, and this will be my first year in the teaching profession. I graduated from Illinois College in May 2026 with a degree in Kinesiology and Education. I played softball all four years in college and was also a member of the school’s drumline.
In my free time, I love watching baseball and football, completing puzzles, watching movies, coaching my softball team, and working out.
I am looking forward to connecting with each student, building relationships, and helping them learn and develop new PE skills. I’m excited for a great first year at Huffman!
Barb Larson
Resource Teacher
My name is Barb Larson, and I am a Resource Teacher at Huffman. I have been teaching for 41 years, and most of my background is in teaching reading. I have loved reading since I was a young girl, and I hope to pass that same passion on to my students.
My hobbies include reading, quilting, and, most recently, Mahjong. My favorite place in the world is Ireland because the country is beautiful, and the people are proud of their heritage and so kind.
I love teaching reading and sharing the fun, random Handwriting Fact of the Day! I am looking forward to another great year with my Huffman students!
Lois Berryman
School Nurse
I am Nurse Lois Berryman, and I am excited and honored to care for your children. For more than 10 years, I worked as a special needs pediatric nurse, and this past year at Huffman has allowed me to discover how much I love working with this wonderful mix of growing independence, big personalities, and simple, sweet hearts.
My nursing office is a safe, cozy spot where, among other things, your child can get a Band-Aid, some comfort, or just a quick breather to reset.
We are a team when it comes to keeping your child happy and healthy, so please feel free to reach out anytime!
Mr. Whaley
5th Grade Teacher
Hi! I’m Mr. Whaley, and I’m a 5th-grade teacher here at Huffman Elementary. I’ve been in the district for the last 16 years, and this is my 10th year at Huffman!
It is both a privilege and an honor to be a bridge in your child’s journey from elementary school to middle school. Here at Huffman, we learn a lot, but we have a lot of fun doing it!
Ashley Harris
Special Education Teacher
My name is Ashley Harris, and this is my first year teaching Special Education. I am very excited and can’t wait to see my students’ faces! Before becoming a teacher, I worked as a paraprofessional and gained eight years of experience working in Special Education. I have been at Huffman for four years.
I have a 13-year-old son, and one of my favorite things to do is spend time with my family. My favorite colors are red and black. I also love fast cars and enjoy going to car shows with my father.
One thing about me is that I truly love helping others. I enjoy working with Special Education students because it brings me a deep sense of fulfillment. Every day is different, and I love having the opportunity to witness those powerful breakthrough moments when a student accomplishes something they have been working toward.
Mrs. Kinkel
Reading Teacher
Hello! My name is Mrs. Kinkel, and I am the Reading Teacher at Huffman. I began teaching in Cahokia in 2002, and this is my 27th year of teaching.
When I’m not at school, I enjoy walking my dogs, shopping, swimming, and spending time with my family and friends. Something fun about me is that I love walking several miles each day and sometimes participate in 5K races.
What I enjoy most about working with students is watching their growth as they develop reading skills they will use throughout their lives.
Carla Morgando
5th Grade Teacher
My name is Carla Morgando, and I teach 5th grade at Huffman Elementary. This will be my 24th year in Cahokia School District. I have spent my entire career here and even completed my student teaching in Cahokia.
In my spare time, I enjoy reading, crafting, and watching my two sons play baseball. I love anything Disney, and Cinderella is my favorite character.
I love teaching and getting to know all of my students. My favorite part of each day is seeing a student finally understand something they may have been struggling with for a while. It is one of the reasons I enjoy my job so much!
I am looking forward to an amazing year!
Estelle Dancy
Special Education Paraprofessional
My name is Estelle Dancy, and I have been a paraprofessional in Cahokia School District for just over 20 years. I enjoy helping our Special Education students learn new things, grow, and develop the skills they need to become successful and productive members of their community.
When I’m not at school, I enjoy cooking and spending time with my family. I am proud to be part of the Huffman family and enjoy supporting our students each day!
Kimberly Skaggs
3rd Grade Teacher
This is my 12th year in education, and I am thrilled to be teaching 3rd grade here at Huffman. My journey started right here at Huffman, teaching 5th grade, followed by eight wonderful years teaching 3rd grade at Elizabeth Morris before finally returning home.
Outside of the classroom, my life revolves around my two very active daughters. My evenings and weekends are usually spent cheering them on at softball games, cheerleading competitions, and track meets, or on the sidelines where they both cheer for varsity football and basketball.
When we aren’t at the sports fields, you can find me camping, fishing, riding motorcycles, spending time with friends, or dreaming of my favorite place—the beach!
Brenda Mitchell
4th Grade Teacher
Hello! My name is Brenda Mitchell, and I am excited to be a part of the Huffman Elementary family as a 4th-grade teacher. With over 30 years of experience in education, I love helping students grow in confidence, discover their strengths, and develop a love of learning.
Outside of the classroom, I enjoy serving at my church, spending time with my family, and, of course, enjoying a good cup of coffee.
I believe every child can succeed, and I look forward to partnering with our families for an amazing school year!
Mrs. Melissa Thomas
Teacher
My name is Mrs. Melissa Thomas, and this is my 32nd year working in Cahokia School District. I was born and raised in the Cahokia Heights community. I consider this community my homeland, and I treat my students and families like they are my people.
I love making my students laugh and having fun while learning. In my spare time, I enjoy boating and camping. However, teaching at Huffman School is my ultimate hobby!
Mrs. Cunningham
5th Grade Teacher
Hello, Huffman Families! My name is Mrs. Cunningham, and I teach 5th grade at Huffman. I am honored to have the opportunity to teach your child this year. CUSD #187 has been my home for 24 years, and I have spent 19 of those years at Huffman.
In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, camping, and spending time with my husband and son.
Teaching is one of the most rewarding parts of my life, and I can’t wait to meet you and your child. I’m looking forward to a wonderful year together!
Edward Thomas
Lead Custodian
My name is Edward Thomas, and I am the Lead Custodian at Huffman Elementary. I have been with Cahokia School District for eight years.
I am a dedicated worker who takes pride in my job and cares about our school, our staff, and, most importantly, the students here at Huffman Elementary. I am proud to be part of the Huffman family!
Meredith Killian
Special Education Teacher
Hi, everyone! I’m Meredith Killian, and I’ve been teaching at Huffman for 23 years. My passion is helping students reach their full potential, both academically and emotionally.
When I’m not in the classroom, you can find me at my daughter’s basketball games, curled up with a good book, or spending time with my family and friends. I also enjoy roller coasters, sunsets, and stargazing.
I love being part of the Huffman family and helping my students learn, grow, and recognize all that they are capable of!