Ellis Story_1: Fletcher Elementary School fourth grade teacher Blade Ellis has created a dynamic and welcoming classroom environment in his first year of teaching.

In the corner of Fletcher Elementary School’s “west wing,” Blade Ellis’s fourth-grade classroom is bustling with excitement. Within these four walls, learning isn’t a passive activity — it’s an event.

It’s time for English Language Arts, and before the students read a story focused on the meteoric rise of “The Beatles,” they are excited to “clap out” vocabulary words and discuss how they apply in their own lives.

The atmosphere is personal, too; Ellis greets his students not just by name, but by the unique nickname they’ve received throughout the school year — from “Speedy Lightning McQueen Sr.” to “Reese Cup — it’s clear that every child in the room is a valued member of his team.

“I strive to create a classroom environment where students feel safe, heard, and valued,” Ellis said. “My students’ opinions and voices matter, and I work to create a welcoming space that promotes engagement and growth.”

Ellis began his career in education working with the Jamestown YWCA’s after-school program at Bush Elementary School while completing his education degree. Last school year, he spent the fall student teaching at Fletcher and began teaching fourth grade almost immediately following his placement to fill an open position.

Now in his first full year of teaching at Fletcher, his dedication is equal to that of a 30-year veteran. He’s often found at his desk long after students have gone home. Recognizing that school days are long, he makes it his mission to ensure that the time his students spend with him is the highlight of their day.

“My students’ well-being and success are what drive me to put in extra time,” he explained. “School days are long, so I believe learning should be as fun and engaging as possible. My team and I work hard to create meaningful experiences and projects that help our students grow and succeed.”

Combined with a dynamic group of colleagues — Jaime Damon, Julie Dahlin, Julia Peterson, and Tamie Rhinehart — Ellis said he is fortunate to join such a positive school environment.

“I have truly enjoyed working with both the students and staff at Fletcher,” he said. “They have helped create a positive environment where we all want to be each day.”

Fletcher Principal Amanda Sischo credited Ellis’s dedication to the profession so early in his career.

“Blade has been a fantastic addition to our fourth-grade team and the Fletcher Family,” she said.

“Walking into his classroom, you immediately feel the energy and the deep connection he has built with his students. He has so naturally created an environment where students are not only excited about the curriculum but also feel so personally seen and valued. He truly goes above and beyond to make learning fun, and it’s been wonderful to watch him thrive with the support of our veteran staff.”

Ellis is grateful for the opportunity to teach in Jamestown.

“I would like to thank JPS for giving me this opportunity,” he said. “I love teaching at Fletcher and being part of the 4th-grade team. I also want to give a shout-out to my students — they are a phenomenal class, and I am incredibly proud of each and every one of them.”

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