The Township of Union Public Schools is pleased to share several administrative leadership changes effective July 1, 2026. These appointments reflect the strength of our district’s leadership team and our continued commitment to placing talented, experienced administrators where they can best support students, staff, and families across our school community.
Dr. Kira Baskerville, currently the principal of Franklin Elementary School, will become the principal of Jefferson Elementary School effective July 1, 2026. Dr. Baskerville brings approximately 30 years of experience in education and has served in a variety of administrative roles, including supervisor in the Special Services Department, vice principal, and principal of Franklin Elementary School since 2020. Her depth of experience and longstanding commitment to student success will make her a wonderful addition to the Jefferson school community.
Ms. Laura Oates, currently the principal of Jefferson Elementary School, will assume leadership of our Pre-K Center at Franklin. Ms. Oates has been an administrator for nearly 15 years, serving as both a vice principal and a principal, and has held the position since 2014. A dedicated member of the TUPS family for 27 years, she brings both experience and a deep understanding of our community to this important role.
Ms. Gina McDowell, currently vice principal at Hannah Caldwell Elementary School, will serve as a vice principal at Union High School. This transition marks a meaningful return to Union High School for Ms. McDowell, who is both a graduate of the school and a former teacher and vice principal there. With 13 years of experience and a history with the Township of Union Public Schools that dates back to 1998, she brings knowledge, pride, and a strong connection to the Union High School community.
Ms. Cheryl Fiske, currently vice principal at Union High School, will join Hannah Caldwell Elementary School as vice principal. Ms. Fiske has served in the district since 2007, first as a math teacher, and then as vice principal at Union High School, beginning in September 2022. Her experience as a classroom teacher and administrator will serve the Hannah Caldwell community well.
Ms. December Field-Moore, currently vice principal at Franklin Elementary School, will become vice principal at Washington Elementary School. Ms. Field-Moore joined TUPS in 2023 and brings approximately four years of administrative experience to her new role. Before joining the district, she served as a literacy/data coach and math coach in another district, and she will bring that instructional perspective and leadership experience to the Washington school community.
