Coleman

Principal Katherine Stan

Mrs. Katherine Stan is starting her first year as Principal of Coleman Elementary School. Mrs. Stan, who has more than 20 years of experience as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and school administrator, uses her strong relationship-building and communication skills to create a safe, positive, and data-driven environment that supports student achievement. 

Since 2019, Mrs. Stan has been the Assistant Principal of Otter Creek Elementary School, which serves as a Dual Language hub for four neighboring schools. There she is known for her skills with restorative behavior practices and helping to improve staff understanding of different cultures and students in trauma. She also collaborates with the District’s grant team, supports the special education team, and reviews IEPs to ensure appropriate goals for students. She approaches her role as a lead learner who coaches and guides alongside the teachers. 

From 2017 to 2019, Mrs. Stan was an instructional coach in U-46’s Teaching and Learning Department, leading teams of teachers in Title 1 buildings. She modeled lessons and coached teachers, supporting them while also ensuring their practice aligned with state standards and District goals.

Mrs. Stan began her full-time career as an educator in U-46 when she was hired as a classroom teacher at Channing Memorial Elementary School for the 2001-02 school year. In 2003, she transitioned to Otter Creek Elementary School where she taught until 2017. 

Mrs. Stan graduated from Illinois State University with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She received a Masters in Teaching from Aurora University and a Masters in Education Administration from the American College of Education and holds an English Language Learners endorsement.