Elana Galli

I have always had a passion for history and examining the world from multiple points of view and mindsets. For that reason, I began my career in Washington, D.C. with Teach For America as a Middle School History teacher.  My own journey as an educator has followed a similar theme taking me through multiple regions at public, charter and Renaissance schools contributing to my eclectic educational experience.  Wanting to develop myself and positively impact students even further, I trained with TNTP’s PhillyPLUS program as a part of its inaugural Turnaround cohort in order to prepare to lead. 

Prior to joining Elevate215, I served in various educational leadership positions.  Most recently, as the Principal of Isaac A. Sheppard Elementary School, I led my community through the unprecedented experience of teaching and learning in a global pandemic.  Despite the challenges of online instruction, reopening the building safely and rebuilding a community of families, partners, staff and students, Sheppard had the highest literacy growth in its district learning network upon returning to in-person learning.  Belief in student and staff capacity, creating the conditions for success, and relentless hard work made it possible to begin to fill the learning gaps created by the pandemic.   

Before becoming a School District Principal, I served Young Scholars Kenderton Charter School as the Founding Manager of Student Life and later Chief of Staff helping to lead the turnaround of one of Philadelphia’s most struggling K- 8 elementary schools.

I have dedicated my career to elevating student achievement and wellbeing in marginalized communities. As Director of Access Initiatives I will be able to focus my impact on expanding opportunities and access for students to an excellent education.