Faculty & Staff Directory
Meet Our Founder & Executive Director
“I believe that as an educator we must work tirelessly to remove the lids placed on students; to do that, it is critical that we believe in our potential and ourselves to unlock limitless possibilities. It is my responsibility to provide quality education to students and teachers with boundless opportunities for them to grow beyond measures” - Dr. Dellnora Winters
Dr. Dellnora Winters has been an educator, school leader, and district administrator for over 20 years, currently serving as Founder/Executive Director of CHI Academy, Change, Hope, and Inspiration. Dr. Winters has kept students at the heart of her career in education, passionate about educating and motivating the young minds of our future.
Her leadership style embodies a desire to focus on building relationships with individuals, encouraging and empowering them to reach their full potential. Most importantly, she aspires to serve the greater good.
Dr. Winters has earned the following degrees:
• Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, University of St. Francis,
• M.A. Educational Administration, National Louis University
• B.S. Elementary Education, Chicago State University
Dr. Winters spent her administrative years as the proud principal of Berger Vandenberg School in the city of Dolton, IL and School of Fine Arts in the city of Calumet City, IL supporting elementary and middle schools in fostering an intense focus on instructional delivery and leadership development. Prior to establishing CHI Academy, Change, Hope, and Inspiration, she planned and coordinated all facets of student transportation, along with the entire grant development for five elementary schools and three middle schools. She provided school leadership as the Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment at Dolton School District 149.
She was born and spent her childhood on the west side of Chicago. During her free time, she enjoys being active in her church and spending time with her retired veteran husband, family and friends.
Educationally yours,
Dellnora Dixon-Winters, Ed.D.
Founder/Executive Director
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OUR MISSION
To provide a world-class K–5 education that develops the whole child — academically, socially, and emotionally — through a rigorous, inclusive, and future-focused learning
environment where every student realizes their worth and reaches their highest potential.
“Students thrive as curious, emotionally grounded learners, equipped through authentic
exploration and strong academic foundations to succeed for life.”
OUR VISION
We Believe…
• Every student possesses unique strengths and unlimited potential that intentional
teaching can unlock.
• With the right support — through engaging curricula, strong instructional
strategies, and a robust alliance between school, family, and community —
students can achieve academic excellence and master social-emotional skills.
• Passionate learners and servant leaders emerge from environments that honor
curiosity, emotional safety, and high expectations in equal measure.
• Mindfulness, self-awareness, and emotional regulation are foundational to
academic readiness and lifelong resilience.
• Every child deserves to feel their worth and to leave CHI Academy equipped to
thrive in a diverse, global society.
CORE VALUE
Curiosity — We design learning experiences that ignite wonder and sustain the desire to discover.
Equity —Every child, regardless of background, receives the support and challenge they deserve.
Community — Families, educators, and students are co-creators of a thriving school culture.
Excellence — High expectations paired with deep support are the foundation of student achievement.
Whole-Child Development — Academic, social-emotional, and physical growth
are equally valued and intentionally cultivated.
Integrity — We model honesty, accountability, and ethical leadership in all that we do.
