Governor French Academy in Belleville, IL operates toward a simple goal and under a simple premise. The goal is the preparation of every student for college or college-level education. The premise is that such an education is best achieved by diagnosing what each student needs to achieve the goal and then adjusting that education as much as possible to the individual’s strengths and weaknesses. It is recognized that there are limits to such individualization, but without it, little of importance can be achieved among the highly individualized people that are American students.

Our Mission and Philosophy –

Governor French Academy is a diverse, private, non-profit, college-preparatory school designed for students in PreK through 12th Grade. We’ve served the same mission and philosophy from downtown Belleville, IL since 1983  — To find out who our students are, and to help them do it on purpose. We prepare each student for an expeditious, college journey, and help them develop professional ambition for successful careers ahead. We achieve our goals by evaluating each student’s strengths and weaknesses, and customizing our curriculum to meet their needs and aims. For over 40 years, through our uniquely structured program, our students have discovered their ability and passion for mastering skills both academically and socially.

Faculty and Staff

Habeeb A. Khan – Head of School/ Middle & Upper School Humanities Teacher/ Board President

Erin Hickman –  Dean of Lower School/ Form II Teacher/ Board Vice President

Janelle Musick – Board Treasurer/ Chief Financial Officer

Monica Henry – Biology Teacher/ Board Secretary

Teri Scott – Head of Admissions & Records

Christine Stewart – Middle & Upper School Math & Science Teacher/ Dean of Middle & Upper School

Lisa Hayes – PreK Teacher

Melody Warfield – Kindergarten Teacher

Stephanie Moore – Form I Teacher

Kimberly Zimmer – Form III Teacher, Art Gallery Director

Philip Paeltz – Headmaster Emeritus