Cheryl Montag

Kings Local Schools, 2025 Excellence in Education Finalist

MADE Chamber & Community Involvement:

As principal of J.F. Burns Elementary, I believe education extends beyond the classroom. It’s about showing students what it means to be an active, caring citizen. For the past 34 years, I’ve led our school in fundraising efforts that support both local and national charities. These efforts have benefitted organizations such as CancerFree Kids, American Heart Association, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Juvenile Arthritis Association, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, among others. These initiatives not only provide critical resources to those in need, but also instill in our students the values of empathy, service, and generosity, lessons that last a lifetime.

Fun Facts About You/Your Business:

I have proudly spent my entire 40-year career in the same building at J.F. Burns Elementary School, serving generations of students and families.
Over 9,000 students have passed through our doors during my tenure, each leaving a unique mark on our school community and on me.
Many of my former students have returned as parents, bringing their own children to J.F. Burns. Witnessing that full-circle legacy has been one of the greatest joys of my career.

A Bit About Cheryl Montag

I am currently in my 41st year in education, having dedicated my entire career to J.F. Burns Elementary School in the Kings Local School District.

My focus is always on making decisions that are best for children.

After earning my degree from Bowling Green State University in 1985, I began my career as a classroom teacher, serving for six years before transitioning into administration. I then spent six years as assistant principal before being appointed principal in 1997, a position I have held with great pride and commitment.

I hold a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Wright State University and an Administrative License from the University of Cincinnati.

Under my leadership, J.F. Burns Elementary has received numerous recognitions, including:

Overall 5-Star Award from the Ohio Department of Education
Ohio Superintendent School of Distinction
Purple Star School
Niche Best Elementary School
Blue Ribbon School of Excellence
Ohio Hall of Fame School
Ohio Overall A award from the Ohio Department of Education

In addition, I have been personally honored as the OAESA Principal of the Year and recognized nationally as a Distinguished Principal.

I have been married to my husband, Al, for 38 years, and we are the proud parents of two sons, Matthew and Nicholas, both graduates of Kings.

Learn A Bit More

Why is being part of the Mason Deerfield Chamber important to you/your organization?

Like the amethyst, businesses and organizations have many facets. Which facet is your strength and why?

If your company culture, or personal persona, had to be summed up in five words or less, reflective of a
gemstone, what would they be?

Schools thrive when they are surrounded by strong communities of support, and the Chamber embodies that spirit of collaboration. Being part of the Mason Deerfield Chamber connects us with businesses, leaders, and organizations who are willing to give their time, expertise, and resources to enhance education. The Chamber’s network ensures that our mission as educators is not carried alone, it is shared, strengthened, and amplified by a community that believes in investing in the next generation.

Like the amethyst, I believe my greatest strength is the ability to lead with optimism, creating an environment where students and staff alike feel encouraged, valued, and inspired to grow. That joy is contagious, nurturing leadership in my colleagues, sparking creativity in my staff, and giving students a safe space to thrive. By fostering positivity, I’ve seen others step more confidently into their own strengths, helping our school community flourish. Throughout my career in education, I’ve drawn strength from my deep faith, which grounds me and allows me to approach challenges with patience and perspective. Just as the amethyst is valued for its balance and clarity, I strive to bring those same qualities to my work and relationships every day.

Compassionate • Resilient • Nurturing • Dedicated • Grounded