Administration Team
Mr. Mike Rile, Principal
Dear Zephyr Elementary Families,
It is with incredible excitement and a deep sense of pride that I write to you today as the new Principal of Zephyr Elementary School. While transitioning in the middle of the school year is unique, I am eager to hit the ground running and serve our district in this new capacity.
As a proud graduate of Whitehall High School, my roots in this community run deep. My educational journey began at Kutztown University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Special Education and Social Studies. I later followed my passion for school leadership to Delaware Valley University, where I earned a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership.
My professional heart has always been in the classroom and in the support of our students' diverse needs. My career began as a middle school special education teacher, a role I held for seven years before transitioning to high school to teach social studies. For the past four years, I have had the privilege of serving our district as an Assistant Principal at the high school.
My wife, Katie, is a teacher at Gockley Elementary, so our dinner table conversations are often centered on the success and growth of Whitehall students. We are also the proud parents of our daughter, Liv, and our son, Deacon. When we aren't in school, you can usually find us going to parks, on a field or in a gym—most of our time is spent playing or watching sports (Go Birds and Phils!)
My goal as your principal is to ensure that Zephyr Elementary provides a rock-solid foundation for your child’s future. I believe that our students can begin to master the tools for lifelong success. My vision emphasizes:
- Goal-Setting: Teaching students to look forward and aim high.
- Identifying Strengths: Helping every child discover what makes them unique and capable.
- Reflection & Self-Improvement: Encouraging a "growth mindset" where mistakes are simply opportunities to learn.
I am a firm believer that we cannot do this work in isolation. It takes a true partnership between home and school to help our children thrive. I look forward to meeting you at drop-off, during school events, and throughout the community.
I am honored to lead this school and work alongside such dedicated educators and families. Together, as one community, we will raise these young Zephyrs to be confident, kind, and ready to take on the world.
Warmly,
Mike Rile
BUILDING HOURS: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM, Phone: 610-871-3671 Fax: 610-871-3672
Mr. Ryan Johnson, Assistant Principal
Dear Zephyr Families,
It is with great excitement and honor that I introduce myself as the new Assistant Principal of Zephyr Elementary School. My name is Ryan Johnson, and I am incredibly eager to join this welcoming community and partner with you as we begin another promising school year. I am genuinely looking forward to getting to know each of our students, the dedicated staff, and the supportive families that make Zephyr Elementary such a special place.
My journey in education began right here in the Lehigh Valley. I attended Bethlehem Catholic High School before going on to Lebanon Valley College, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood and Special Education. During my time at Lebanon Valley, I also had the privilege of playing football. Later, I continued my education, earning a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Delaware Valley University.
My career in education has provided me with diverse experiences across various grade levels and roles. I began my career in the Derry Township School District as a Kindergarten and first-grade Emotional Support Teacher. From there, I moved to the Lebanon Area School District, where I served as a Learning Support Teacher for sixth to eighth-grade Students. Most recently, before joining the Zephyr family, I served as a fifth-grade Learning Support Teacher and also as the Dean of Students in the Northampton Area School District. Each of these experiences has deepened my commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment for all students.
Currently, I reside in Allentown, PA. Outside of school, I'm a big Philadelphia Eagles and Philadelphia Phillies fan, so you'll often find me cheering on our local teams! I also enjoy golfing, spending time outdoors, and staying active at the gym.
I firmly believe that all children are capable of learning and achieving great things. My core educational values center on fostering strong relationships with students, staff, and community members. I believe that by working collaboratively, we can create a supportive and engaging environment where every student feels valued, challenged, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.
I am genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunity to work alongside the Zephyr students, staff, and families. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns or wish to connect. Your partnership is invaluable as we strive to make this an exceptional school year for everyone!
Sincerely,
Ryan Johnson
Assistant Principal Zephyr Elementary School