Matthew Kelley
Assistant Principal/Special Populations Coordinator
KACC is a wonderfully unique and valuable component of a well-rounded education. Matthew Kelley, KACC's Assistant Principal/Special Populations Coordinator, brings a wonderfully unique and valuable wealth of experience and education lending itself perfectly to his position. He says he's delighted for "an opportunity to bring my ideas, insight and passion for career and technical education into the educational mainstream for our communities."
Mr. Kelley's background mirrors the philosophy of melding career and technical education with formal academia. Originally from Akron, Ohio, Mr. Kelley spent two years as an apprentice machinist, before serving as a Hospital Corpsman in the United States Navy for five years. While in the Navy, Mr. Kelley earned his Associates Degree from the College of Lake County in Grayslake, Illinois.
When Mr. Kelley left the Navy, he knew he wanted to further his education. Mr. Kelley earned his Bachelor Degree in Education from Governor State University. He taught in the Kankakee School District 111 for eight years, all the while continuing to learn. Mr. Kelley earned his Masters Degree in Administration, and is about to complete a Masters in School Counseling this May, 2011 at Olivet Nazarene University.
Mr. Kelley's diverse work and education histories give him the tools needed for this position. As Special Populations Coordinator for the Kankakee Area Regional Vocational Education System (KARVES). Mr. Kelley's efforts effect students from Kindergarten through12th grade, not just high school students. Special Populations refers to any student who is disadvantaged. The disadvantage might be anything from a learning disability, physical disability, limited English, economically disadvantaged, etc. For these students, Mr. Kelley works to ensure every effort is made for students to achieve the highest academic success possible. Tutors are made available at KACC in the Learning Center as well some assigned as Outreach Tutors throughout the region high schools.
In addition to serving area schools with tutoring and support for disadvantaged students, Mr. Kelley, through KARVES, is also involved in promoting career exploration and supporting career and technical education available within area districts. Mr. Kelley directs activities designed to enlighten youth, including Egg Drop Technology presentations at the elementary level, Construction Trades Expo and 8th Grade Career Awareness at the Middle School age, and oversees the use of a new technology put into place called Bullzi.
As Assistant Principal at the Career Center, Mr. Kelley works with Principal Goodale and other administrative staff providing administrative direction for faculty and staff. In addition, Mr. Kelley works with students concerning occupational programs and training choices. He regularly keeps in contact with area school counselors and obtains feedback from KACC graduates and their employers which may be useful in making improvements to programs.
Mr. Kelley also leads an Advisory Committee, comprised of superintendents and area business people from various career backgrounds to disseminate information about KACC and the direction of our curriculum. This venue also establishes an open forum tor business leaders to provide feedback.
On a personal note, Mr. Kelley is a friendly, fun-loving man. He has a good rapport with the students, faculty and staff. He is married and has two beautiful sons. Our KACC students drooled when they saw his 2001 Harley Davidson Fat Boy! Weather permitting, he drives it to school on Fridays. All-in-all, he's a good fit for KACC. Welcome aboard.
