Greetings!

My name is Rida Ellis and this is my first year as Assistant Principal here at American Dreamer STEM Academy (2021-2022).  I am so honored to be apart of the ADSA family! This is going to be a great school year!

This year begins my 15th 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 adminstration 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 Adminstration. I am a lifetime learner!

My favorite quote is "Be Brave!" 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.

I am so excited to work alongside Mrs. Fane, 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,

Ms. Ellis