Meet the Principal

Jim Kern
Principal of Margaret Buerkle Middle School

Jim Kern is proud to be entering his 13th year as Principal of Margaret Buerkle Middle School. Prior to joining the Buerkle community, he served as Assistant Principal at Oakville High School. He began his career teaching social studies at Mehlville High School.

Mr. Kern holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice with an emphasis in Policing from the University of Missouri–St. Louis, a teaching certification in Secondary Social Studies from Harris-Stowe State University, a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from UMSL, and a Specialist degree from Lindenwood University.

Over the years, he’s found the most rewarding part of working in education is watching students grow — academically, socially and emotionally — during their middle school years. He truly enjoys seeing students discover new interests, deepen their understanding, and build meaningful connections that set the stage for success in high school and beyond.

Outside of school, Mr. Kern enjoys following just about every sport. His son plays water polo, and his daughter is a pharmacist in South Carolina. He’s also a longtime hockey enthusiast and still laces up his skates weekly to play in a local league.

Carla Gardner
Assistant Principal of Margaret Buerkle Middle School

Carla Gardner serves as the assistant principal at Buerkle Middle School, where she brings more than 17 years of experience in education — all within the Mehlville School District. She has proudly served Buerkle’s students, families and staff in a variety of roles since 2008, including classroom teacher, department chair, and head positions on many committees for the district.

Mrs. Gardner began her career as a middle school math and language arts teacher and was recognized as Teacher of the Year during her time in the classroom. Her leadership experience includes supervising the mathematics department, supporting after-school programs, and participating in numerous school-wide committees. Since becoming assistant principal in 2019, she has focused on fostering a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment for all students.

She holds a master’s degree in administration from Lindenwood University and a bachelor’s degree in middle school education from Missouri State University.

As a school leader, Mrs. Gardner values building strong relationships, creating a culture of collaboration, and helping students discover their potential. Above all, she believes that every child deserves to feel seen, heard and supported.

Outside of school, Mrs. Gardner cherishes time with her husband and their two children. She loves cheering them on at all their activities, sneaking in time to read, and unwinding with a bit of reality TV.