Board of Education approves the hiring of Bernard Middle School principal

The Mehlville Board of Education approved the hiring of Dr. Jason Buatte as the principal of Bernard Middle School for the 2025-2026 school year.

Dr. Buatte has served as the assistant principal of Oakville Middle School for the past three school years. He previously served as an assistant principal at Oakville High School from 2016-2022. He also worked as a middle and high school teacher in Columbia Unit School District #4, teaching social studies, math and special education courses.

“Dr. Buatte has a strong educational and leadership background and also brings a wealth of district knowledge and understanding to this new role,” said Dr. Jeff Haug, Superintendent of Schools. “He will be an excellent leader for the incredible students, staff and families and in the Bernard Middle School community.”

Dr. Buatte has a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Maryville University. He also earned a Master of Arts in School Administration from Lindenwood University and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from Eastern Illinois University.

“I am incredibly excited and grateful for the opportunity to be the next principal at Bernard Middle School,” Dr. Buatte said. “I am excited to create a culture of success and belonging, and a middle school experience that our staff, students, and families can be proud of.”

Dr. Buatte will begin serving in his new role on July 1, 2025. He replaces Dr. Lauren Cumming who will serve as Mehlville School District’s Director of Data and Assessment next school year.