- American Dreamer STEM Academy
- A Message from the Principals
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A Message from the Principal
Phone: 217-362-3380
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Ms. Rida Ellis
Hello! My name is Rida Ellis and I am honored to be the Principal here at American Dreamer STEM Academy. I am so excited for a great school year!
This year begins my 16th year in education. I started my career with Decatur Public Schools as a classroom teacher. I have also served as an instructional coach, Kindergarten Camp Coordinator, and summer school teacher. Some may recognize me from South Shores Elementary School, Durfee Technology Magnet School, or Hope Academy. I served DPS for ten years before stepping away to explore education in other capacities. I worked for the Education Coalition of the Community Foundation of Macon County as well as Illinois State University. Before returning to DPS this year, I served as a Professional Development Specialist for the Macon-Piatt Regional Office of Education, which allowed me to work with DPS 61's administration and teachers.
I am a Decatur native! I graduated from MacArthur High School and completed my Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education at Millikin University. I have two Master's degrees from Eastern Illinois University in Elementary Education and Educational Administration. I am a lifetime learner!
My favorite quote is "Let’s Do This!" We can do hard things! At American Dreamer STEM Academy, we expect every member of our school community to work hard and have fun while doing so. Building relationships and the home-to-school partnership are extremely important to the success of our school.
Working together, we will ensure your child's educational success. I look forward to a very successful year working side by side with you.
Sincerely,
Ms. Ellis
A Message from the Assistant Principal
Phone: 217-362-3380
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Mr. Courtney Settles
Hello! My name is Courtney Settles and this is my first year as Assistant Principal at American Dreamer STEM Academy. I am so honored to be a part of the ADSA family! This is going to be a great school year!
I am so excited to work alongside Ms. Ellis, our staff, and our wonderful students. I am hopeful that you will find this school year to be a successful one for your student(s).
Sincerely,
Mr. Settles