About Us
Administration
Edward 'Duke' Ellington Conservatory of Music and Art at Beckman Academy
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to our vibrant educational oasis in Detroit, where over 600 students from Pre-K to 8th grade thrive under the inspirational legacy of Edward Duke Ellington. Our school isn't just about academics; it's a dynamic playground of learning and creativity. Picture our girls’ and boys’ basketball teams dribbling towards victory, our drama class transforming ordinary moments into captivating performances, and our robotics team crafting innovative solutions for tomorrow's challenges.
But that's not all - we cultivate character through PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports), nurture sustainability with our flourishing vegetable garden, and ignite imaginations through our vibrant performing arts programs. Here, every child is encouraged to dream big, think boldly, and embrace their unique talents. Join us on this extraordinary journey as we blend the timeless wisdom of Edward Duke Ellington with cutting-edge education, ensuring that each student shines brightly in their own symphony of success.
PreK–8th
Principal
Ms. Kimberly Pierce
Greetings Edward “Duke” Ellington's Parents and Community,
It is my pleasure to serve you as principal this year! This is my tenth year in educational leadership. Prior to becoming principal, I had many leadership experiences including lead teacher, instructional coach, and assistant principal in Detroit Public Schools Community District. Even with these amazing experiences, I will always be a teacher at heart. I also have 12 years of classroom teaching experience in Detroit Public Schools. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (K-8 self-contained) from Alabama State University, a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Wayne State University, and a Specialist Degree in General Supervision from Wayne State University. By pursuing lifelong learning, I intend to be an example to students and teachers that we should never stop learning.
I am blessed to be the mother of two awesome children and a handsome grandson. I have the same expectations for them as I do your children, who I love as if they are my own. I want to see them excel and become productive human beings, who have ample opportunity to become whatever they want to be when they grow up.
It is my privilege to lead Edward “Duke” Ellington and the many talented teachers and students here! My goal is to continue to provide a supportive climate and culture at Edward “Duke” Ellington that is conducive to teaching and learning. By doing so, each individual student and teacher can experience growth to their highest potential. I look forward to interacting with all stakeholders in our school community this year!
With Gratitude,
Kimberly Pierce
Principal
Dean of Culture and Climate
Mrs. Tiana Daniels
Contact Info:
(313) 989-5974
Parent Office Hours: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm Weekdays
We are thrilled to announce the transition of Mrs. Daniels into her new role as Dean of Culture at Duke Ellington Conservatory! For the past three years, Mrs. Daniels has served as our dedicated Title I School Social Worker, where she has made a tremendous impact on students and families through her compassionate support and commitment to fostering a positive school environment. We look forward to her continued leadership and innovative approach to shaping our school culture. Mrs. Daniels brings a wealth of experience to her role as Dean of Culture, drawing on her years as a Title I School Social Worker. Her strengths in building relationships, supporting families, and fostering a positive school climate make her a valuable leader in shaping our school culture.
Assistant Principal
Ms. Andrea Kelley
Assistant Principal Andrea Kelley is a seasoned educator who is committed to advancing urban education and driving school improvement. She attended Eastern Michigan University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in English, American Language, and Literature, as well as a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership.
With over twenty-three years of service in education, including eighteen years with the Detroit Public Schools Community District, her professional journey encompasses an array of roles such as teacher, mentor, academic dean, assistant principal, and co-founder of a small high school. These positions have enabled her to refine her expertise in driving high student achievement and fostering a culture of excellence.
Ms. Kelley is deeply committed to the principles of educational equity. Guided by the philosophy that all students are capable of learning and thriving, she prioritizes holistic education that meets students where they are. She believes in the power of data-driven decision-making and is adept at implementing evidence-based instructional practices that yield measurable improvements in student outcomes.