Meet the Principal

Mike Salsman
Principal of Oakville Middle School

Mike Salsman serves as the principal of Oakville Middle School, bringing 33 years of experience in education, including 21 years within the Oakville community. His career began at Forder Elementary as a physical education teacher. Over the years, he has held several leadership roles, including PE director, director of community education, assistant principal at both Bierbaum Elementary and Oakville Middle School, and now, principal.

Mr. Salsman earned his undergraduate degree from Southwest Missouri State University. He later completed his Master's degree at Southwest Baptist University and Specialist degree at Missouri Baptist University, deepening his commitment to educational leadership and student success.

Throughout his career, Mr. Salsman has been dedicated to creating a positive, inclusive school environment where students and staff feel respected, supported and empowered to thrive. He believes that fostering strong relationships and maintaining a culture of encouragement are essential to helping every student reach their full potential.

Outside of school, Mr. Salsman enjoys spending time with his family. He has been married for 25 years and is the proud father of three children. In his free time, he enjoys traveling and cheering on Mizzou football.

Abby Riess
Assistant Principal of Oakville Middle School

Abby Riess is proud to serve as Assistant Principal at Oakville Middle School, bringing nearly two decades of experience in education and a deep commitment to student success. A graduate of the Mehlville School District, Mrs. Riess is passionate about giving back to the community that shaped her. Her background includes a wide range of experiences in teaching, curriculum leadership, and school-community engagement.

Mrs. Riess launched her teaching career in Louisiana, where she taught high school social studies and coached varsity softball. She then moved to Oklahoma, where she taught middle school social studies, took on team leadership responsibilities, and coached multiple sports. Upon returning to her hometown of St. Louis, Mrs. Riess joined the Mehlville School District, contributing as a teacher at Washington Middle School and actively supporting district curriculum work and school-wide events

Mrs. Riess holds a master’s degree in Educational Administration from the University of Oklahoma and a bachelor’s degree in History and Secondary Education from the University of Missouri–Rolla, where she was also an NCAA softball athlete. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in Educational Leadership at Maryville University.

As a school leader, Mrs. Riess values relationships, high expectations and inclusive school culture. She is passionate about fostering strong connections between students, staff and families to ensure all learners feel seen, supported and empowered.

Mrs. Riess and her husband, Ryan, live in Oakville with their three sons. Outside of school, she enjoys cheering on her boys at baseball and golf, traveling and spending time with her extended school and neighborhood community.