Danielle Welch

Danielle Welch has extensive experience working in the field of education and special education. Danielle most recently held the role of Principal at Soaring Eagle Academy starting in July 2022. Prior to that, they worked as the Director of Special Education at Community High School District 94 since June 2015. From May 2019 to July 2022, they served as the Executive Director at Leyden Area Special Education Cooperative. Earlier in their career, they held the position of Director of Student Services at DeKalb School District #428 and Somonauk School District #432 from June 2013 to June 2015, and as the Assistant Director of Special Education at East Aurora School District 131 from June 2009 to June 2013.

Danielle Welch earned their Bachelor's degree in English & Psychology from Elmhurst University between 1997 and 1999. Danielle then went on to complete their Master's degree in Special Education and Collaborative Teaching at Benedictine University from 2000 to 2002. Following that, they pursued a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies, specializing in School Law, Special Education, and Qualitative Research at Loyola University Chicago from 2003 to 2009.

Additionally, Danielle holds two certifications from the Illinois State Board of Education. The first is the Illinois Teaching Credentials in Special Education, and the second is in School Leadership, specifically Director of Special Education, Superintendent Endorsement, and General Administrative Endorsement. Unfortunately, specific dates of obtaining these certifications are not provided.