Copper Trails School

Copper Trails Leadership

Headshot of Ilana Dawson

Ilana Dawson, Principal

Ilana Dawson has been serving the Avondale Elementary School District for 12 years as a teacher, mentor, facilitator and administrator. During her time in the district, she has spearheaded initiatives that advance student achievement, responsibility, citizenship and overall success. Her focus centers on building positive relationships with students to help them pursue their passions and meet their goals while supporting their academic success through classroom support and guidance. Mrs. Dawson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Arizona State University, a Master’s degree in Educational Technology from Northern Arizona University, and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Western Governors University.

Headshot of Stacy Dobbins

Stacy Dobbins, Assistant Principal

Email: sdobbin@chooseaesd.org

Mrs. Stacy Dobbins joined the Avondale School District in 2005 after teaching in New York State. She is a National Board Certified Teacher who has a wide variety of teaching experiences in grades preK through 12. These experiences include special education, alternative education, third grade and sixth grade math. She has been a mentor teacher and master teacher as well as serving on many committees and leadership teams. Her focus is on fostering a safe, positive school culture for teaching and learning. Her goal is student growth and achievement in both citizenship and academics.

Mrs. Dobbins holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary/Early Secondary Education with a minor in Public Administration and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Education Administration from the State University of New York at Cortland. She holds a Master's degree in Special Education from Binghamton University.

Nicole Neal, Dean of Students

Email: nneal@chooseaesd.org

Principal’s Message

Dear Copper Trails Community,

It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I write to you as the newly appointed Principal of Copper Trails School for the 2024-2025 school year. I write this message to reassure all of our community members that my primary aim is to continue to offer the best educational service to our wonderful students. While I am aware of the great responsibility I have undertaken, I would like to assure every stakeholder that the welfare and development of our students remain at the forefront of our leadership team. Since its opening in 2008, many years have been dedicated to building a solid foundation with intentional structures and systems to ensure the success of every student and I am committed to continuing to lead and build upon that. I am confident we share this common goal and look forward to working closely with you in the best interest of our students.

Avondale Elementary School District and Copper Trails School have always been an integral part of my life. As a former classroom teacher, Mentor, Dean of Students, Assistant Principal and now Principal, I have been unbelievably privileged to witness the amazing things that happen within our school on a daily basis. For the past 12 years, Copper Trails School has been my home away from home and I am honored to be able to continue my personal and professional journey through education as a Coyote! I pledge to embody our school’s mission and vision through this time of transition and am grateful for the opportunity to work with this incredibly supportive and involved community in this capacity.

In closing, I am honored to serve as your Principal and welcome your conversation and positive input. I am dedicated to my growth as a strong leader and look forward to your support and communication moving forward.