Katherine Fedalen, Interim Head of School

Kate Fedalen M.Ed., has been committed to the mission of The Chelsea School since 1989, when it became a non-public institution. Prior to assuming the position of Interim Head, she was a special education classroom teacher for 16 years and acted as Middle Division Head for eight of those years. Ms. Fedalen has been the Assistant Head of Chelsea School since 2005. She is a member of Phi Kappa Phi honor society, a contributing author to Models of Applied Research in Educational Technology, a presenter at MANSEF’s annual conference, was recognized by NAIS “Stars in Education” and was nominated for MANSEF’s “Inspiring Dream, Changing Lives” award.

The nickname “Chelsea for Life” has been one of the descriptors her students have attached to Kate since joining Chelsea School. Kate’s professional development and experience with Chelsea School students has instilled a deep belief that “There are all kinds of learners, which means there needs to be all kinds of teaching practices that work with the students from where they are. Even when a student’s profile is similar to another’s, his or her personal experiences, family dynamics, and that which drives us all to be individuals makes each student’s learning needs very individual. That is why Chelsea is committed to provide a learning environment that allows for and celebrates the strengths and needs of each student. Chelsea is a school where that type of understanding and acknowledgement of each child’s unique self occurs every day in every class."

Deborah Lourie, Director of Admissions

Deborah Lourie began at Chelsea School in February of 2007.  Deborah was excited to join the Chelsea Team to help promote the education and learning goals of Chelsea School.  From early in her career, Deborah knew that she wanted to work with adolescents and their families.  She received a BA in Sociology at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, and her Master’s of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania. 
She began her career as a social worker working with adolescents and children for 10 years, providing individual, group and family therapy.  Most of her job experiences were in school settings. 

Almost 4 years ago, Deborah transitioned from social work to admissions in schools with students with learning disabilities.  She enjoys being in a position that assists families in identifying the best possible learning environments for their children. Her primary job responsibilities are to review the records when a child application has been submitted, determine whether to continue the application process, and to set up visits to the school.  Deborah notes that, “The best feeling for me is when the Chelsea School is a true match for the student and they can’t wait to come to the school!  It is amazing to watch the growth of the students once they arrive both academically and socially.”   

Jeffery A. Green, Director of Finance

After serving four years in the United States Marine Corps, Jeff Green went to University of Maryland University College, where he received a BS degree in Business & Management: Accounting. After graduation, Jeff sat for and passed the Certified Public Accountant Exam to earn his CPA certification.

At the Public Accounting Firm of Turner, Weisman, Polan & White, Jeff learned not only practical accounting from season professionals, but also the importance of computers as an integral part of any business. Because of this, Jeff returned to the University of Maryland where he earned a second BS degree in Information Systems Management.

For 10 years, Jeff worked with various small businesses and nonprofit associations doing accounting, payroll and computer consulting. “I felt the combination of accounting and computer knowledge helped me to provide services that were professional and technically proficient”.

In the spring of 2007 Jeff took on an engagement to help Chelsea School with some accounting needs and to transition the accounting system.  That led to applying for and accepting the position of Director of Finance.  “I felt that there was something special going on here and I wanted to be a part of Chelsea School exciting future”.

Tameka Jackson, Dean of Students

Before Tameka joined the Chelsea School, she was the Technology Coordinator at an alternative high school in the District of Columbia. She is an avid supporter of education and a lifelong learner. Tameka has a Bachelors of Science degree in Computer Information Systems from Elizabethtown College and a Masters of Arts degree in Educational Technology Leadership from The George Washington University.

“Once I realized that I could combine my technical skills with my passion for education, there was no turning back.” Tameka is currently pursuing a doctorate in Urban Educational Leadership at Morgan State University.