Our Story.
The ADS Story.
Dr. Melissa Meza Melkonian has long envisioned creating a specialized program for students who are learning English. Her parents, originally from another country, worked diligently to offer their children every opportunity for success.
Because Dr. Melkonian’s family primarily spoke Spanish, she encountered significant obstacles in elementary school while learning in a language she did not initially speak. She had no “transitional” or “dual language” program to help her maintain progress in her native language. Only in fifth grade did she begin receiving English as a Second Language (ESL) services.
Despite these early experiences, Dr. Melkonian ultimately mastered English, graduated from high school and college, became a teacher, then a school leader, and started a family. She has fulfilled her parents’ hope that their children would flourish.
The idea for The American Dream School arose from Dr. Melkonian’s personal experiences and her research on student performance in the South Bronx. She earned an Ed.M. in Educational Leadership at Columbia University's Teachers College and completed the Summer Principals Academy, gaining the skills needed to bring her vision to life.
Since 2014, The American Dream School has offered a robust dual-language program and balanced educational practices, preparing students to become global citizens. Every learner is encouraged to work toward the New York State Seal of Biliteracy, ensuring they have the foundation needed for future success.
“I want to transform the lives of students."
The daughter of hardworking parents who sought better opportunities for their family, Dr. Melkonian spent more than a decade in New York City public education before founding her own charter school dedicated to supporting students interested in becoming fluent in two languages. - PIX11's Monica Morales. (Full article here.)
— Dr. Melissa Melkonian, Founder and Head of The American Dream School
