The Rock Island-Milan School District is excited to welcome our newest school and district leaders for the 2026–2027 school year. Each brings valuable experience, fresh perspectives, and a shared commitment to supporting scholars, staff, and families. We invite you to get to know the leaders who will help shape another successful year in RIMSD41.

Dr. Beth Summers

Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning, Rock Island-Milan School District 41

Dr. Beth Summers brings more than 20 years of building- and district-level administrative experience to the Rock Island-Milan School District. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in English, master's degrees in Public Administration and Educational Administration, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Northern Illinois University, where she also serves as an adjunct professor in the Principal Preparation program. In addition to her district leadership, Dr. Summers serves as a consultant, trainer, and co-founder of an educational support organization. She is passionate about developing leaders, building instructional capacity, and supporting the success of educators and scholars alike.

Brendan Sears

Director of Information Technology, Rock Island-Milan School District 41

Brendan Sears serves as the Director of Technology after five years supporting scholars and staff through the ChromeDepot at Rock Island High School. Prior to joining Rock Island-Milan, he held technology and consulting roles at Fort Lewis College, St. Ambrose University, and Western Washington University, while also serving with Humility Homes and Services and leading the Assistive Technology program at The Arc of the Quad Cities. Mr. Sears is recognized for his collaborative approach, commitment to service, and passion for leveraging technology to support scholars, empower staff, and enhance teaching and learning across the district.

Krista Lonian

Principal, Rock Island Center for Math and Science

Krista Lonian serves as Principal of the Rock Island Center for Math and Science (RICMS). She began her career in the Rock Island-Milan School District as a fifth/sixth-grade multi-age teacher at Earl Hanson Elementary before gaining additional teaching experience in neighboring districts. She returned to RIMSD in 2018 as a sixth-grade teacher at Thomas Jefferson Elementary and later served as Student Assistant Manager (SAM) and Assistant Principal at RICMS before becoming principal.

Mrs. Lonian holds an associate degree from Black Hawk College, a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Western Illinois University, and master's degrees in Elementary Education and Literacy from the American College of Education. With 17 years of classroom experience, she is passionate about fostering a school culture where every scholar is challenged, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.

Alyson Baldwin

Assistant Principal, Washington Junior High School

Ms. Baldwin serves as Assistant Principal after previously serving as Dean of Students, bringing more than 17 years of experience in education to her role. Her career includes nine years as a Paraprofessional and six years as a Special Education Teacher. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education with a Special Education endorsement and a Master's Degree in Educational Administration. Trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Ms. Baldwin has played a key role in leading teacher training initiatives and fostering professional growth. She is recognized for her collaborative leadership, passion for supporting scholars, and unwavering commitment to building a positive school community.

Dan Colbrese

Assistant Principal, Rock Island Center for Math and Science

Mr. Dan Colbrese brings more than 10 years of experience in education as a dedicated special education teacher with a passion for supporting the academic, social, and emotional growth of all scholars. He holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology, a master's degree in Education, and a master's degree in Educational Administration. As Assistant Principal, Mr. Colbrese is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and academically challenging learning environment where every scholar has the opportunity to succeed. He believes that strong relationships, high expectations, and equitable practices are the foundation of a positive and thriving school community.

Terrance Dillard

Dean of Students, Washington Junior High School

Mr. Terence Dillard brings more than 20 years of experience in education, serving as a classroom teacher, football and basketball coach, District Behavioral Specialist, and Assistant Principal. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to creating inclusive, engaging learning environments where scholars can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Mr. Dillard is recognized for his collaborative leadership, dedication to continuous improvement, and passion for supporting both scholars and staff. Outside of school, he enjoys spending time with his family, mentoring others, and playing golf.