Leadership

Mr. Duane WestBuilding Principal

Normandy Schools Collaborative is excited to welcome Duane West as the principal of Bel-Nor School. West comes to Normandy from the Hazelwood School District where he served as Dean of Students at Southeast Middle School. He began his career in the Riverview Gardens School 

District where he spent time as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and administrator.  His positive attitude and love of education and children are reflected in the outstanding quality of instructional leadership that he has maintained over the years. Mr. West is all about student learning through collaboration, relationship building, goal setting, and high expectations for ALL teachers and students.  During his administration role in Riverview Gardens School District, Mr. West was recognized by the Department of Secondary and Elementary Education for removing his school from Priority and Comprehensive to Exemplary status.

West now brings his enthusiasm to Bel-Nor School located in the historic neighborhood of the same name, which serves approximately 300 students in grades 1-5. 

West earned his bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Harris-Stowe State University. He then went on to earn his master’s degree in Education Administration from Missouri Baptist University. He also serves as a children and youth mentor, member of the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals, and various other leadership roles.

More than anything, Mr. West exudes a strong philosophy that as a district and community, we are a true family that takes pride in providing the best possible learning environment for all  students.