Administration
Ms. jana ream
For nearly two decades, I have had the honor of serving the students and families of West Aurora School District. I began my career in West Aurora as the school psychologist at Herget Middle School. Afterwards, I transitioned into a special education coordinator position, which allowed me the opportunity to work with students throughout the district. I have also acted as an assistant principal at both Schneider and Nicholson elementary schools.
I hold a Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Sciences with a psychology major from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I also earned a specialist in school psychology degree from Illinois State University. After beginning my career in education I sought my Master of Arts in educational leadership from Aurora University.
It is a privilege to work alongside the dedicated Freeman staff members who support the social, emotional, and academic development of all our students. At Freeman we teach our students to have a “Mustang Mindset” in which they think deeply, are curious, kind, and resilient. Through collaboration with families, I believe we can provide an environment which allows all of our students to reach their highest potential.
In addition to working here, I also live in this community with my husband and three children. In my free time I enjoy reading, watching my children participate in activities they love, and traveling together as a family.
Ms. melissa righter
My name is Melissa Righter and it is my pleasure to continue to serve as Freeman’s Assistant Principal. I joined the West Aurora and Freeman community at the beginning of the 2019-2020 school year.
My educational career started in Cicero as an art educator and I began my administrative career in 2013 with experiences at the elementary and junior high level as an assistant principal.
I believe in the importance of building strong relationships and connections; supporting the whole child to grow into life-long learners, and reinvigorating/embracing the joy of learning.
In my spare time, I enjoy doing creative projects like candle making and painting, staying active by cycling and running, and spending time with my daughter, Ella.
I look forward to this upcoming year and continuing to support the Freeman community.