Ara Keledjian
Principal
(559) 675-4425
Hello! My name is Ara Keledjian, and I am honored to serve the students, staff, and community as the Madera Adult School Principal. I have been in education for over thirty years now. I have served students as a teacher, assistant principal, principal of elementary school, continuation high school, community day school, independent study programs, preschool, and adult school in other districts. At one point in my career, I had students ranging in age from three to seventy-seven years old. I have also had the privilege of being the principal for the children of my former students, a true gift for educators.
Some of my fondest memories of serving adult school learners was watching one special needs student graduate after working hard for seven years to earn his diploma. Another was a graduating grandmother, who when asked why she returned to school, explained that she needed to set an example for her grandchildren. I think that is the most fun part about working with adult learners; to hear their stories. I have learned a lot from my students over the years. I truly believe that we as educators can only grow when we are willing to listen to our students and are willing to learn from them.
My children and I returned to this area several years ago to help my parents maintain their almond orchard. We are blessed to be able to spend this time with them. As I enter my fourth year with Madera Unified, I continue to be impressed with our district’s focus on equity and student success. My goal for Madera Adult School is to continue the traditions of excellence in all areas while listening to the students learn more about what Madera Adult School can do for them so that they can achieve their dreams.
