School Leadership

Ms. Heather Kama-Starr (Principal)

Hello to all CMSD community members! 

My name is Heather E. Kama-Starr, and I am the proud principal at Riverside School. To me, being an educator goes well beyond the academics of it all. To truly help people learn and grow, we need to focus on the whole being. Helping each scholar, and educator, reach their true potential means working to instill a growth mindset while equally focusing on both socio-emotional and academic needs.  

Let me tell you a little bit about me. I have degrees from Eastern Michigan University, Murray State University, and Cleveland State University. I spent over thirteen years teaching, and I am truly excited to be venturing into my eighth year as a leader at Riverside. Before I moved over to Montrose Avenue (during the summer of 2019), I spent three years working as an administrator at Max S. Hayes High School. I loved my time being a Max Hayes Laker but found my home at Riverside. I was born and raised in Detroit, but I’ve been living in Cleveland since 1999. I have two amazing children and a wonderful husband.

I love iced tea, cheeseburgers, cherries, and watermelon. I also love sunflowers and rather than having one favorite color, I love all things rainbow! When I was in my twenties, I spent three summers working at Cedar Point. In my free time I love to travel and attend concerts. In fact, over the years I have attended hundreds of concerts. In the summer of 2019, my family rescued a mini dachshund named LiliBug. Two years later, we rescued another mini doxie named Luna Rue. Truth be told, Lili and Luna rule our household! 

Each day I strive to humbly do my best. This includes but is not limited to keeping an open mind, taking the necessary time to reflect, and owning my mistakes. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you need anything. Afterall, my goal is to ensure that every member of the Riverside family has access to the resources they need to reach their true potential. Go Owls! #OwlStrong 

Mr. Kyle Cohen (Assistant Principal)

My educational philosophy is simple: to make school a place where students and teachers are excited to be, and to cultivate a culture that fosters memorable learning moments for all. These feelings led me to the classroom and here to Riverside.

Prior to joining the Riverside family, I taught fourth grade at Northfield Elementary School in the Nordonia Hills City School District. Before my time in Nordonia, I taught at Summit Academy Community School in Parma. I obtained my Bachelor's degree from THE Ohio State University and my Master's degree from John Carroll University.

Outside of work, I enjoy exploring Cleveland’s food scene, teaching spin classes, obsessing over all things Cleveland sports, and spending time with my friends and family. Looking forward to an incredible school year together!

Mr. Eric Stephens (Dean of Engagement)

My journey in education began as a substitute teacher with Akron Public Schools, where I served for two years before being appointed Dean of Engagement at Mary B. Martin School. During my eight years at MBM, I was dedicated to building strong connections with students, families, and staff. I took great pride in creating a positive and supportive school culture, ensuring that every scholar felt valued, safe, and encouraged to succeed. My goal was always to be a consistent presence who inspired hope, fostered relationships, and helped students reach their full potential.

As I begin this new chapter at Riverside, I am committed to bringing the same passion, dedication, and student-centered leadership that guided my work throughout my career. My personal motto is, "Changing one student at a time." I firmly believe that every student matters, and if I can positively impact even one child's life, I am making a meaningful contribution to our community.

Prior to entering education, I worked as an administrator for an oil company for three years before the company downsized. I also come from a strong entrepreneurial background, having been raised in a family-owned dry-cleaning business that proudly served the community for over 50 years before closing during the COVID-19 pandemic. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, commitment, customer service, and building meaningful relationships.

My educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in project management from DeVry University and a Master's Degree in Business Administration from Keller Graduate School of Management. Additionally, I completed the Inspired Leaders Principal Licensure Program through Cleveland State University's Center for Educational Leadership, further preparing me to serve students, families, and staff as an educational leader.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, especially my adult children and eight grandchildren. Family is at the heart of everything I do, and I cherish creating lasting memories with them. I also enjoy traveling, exploring new places, and embracing new adventures. Whether gathering with family and friends, sharing laughter and fellowship, or discovering a new destination, I value the relationships and experiences that enrich life.