Nadine Chatto
Head Administrator
Nadine Chatto (Navajo/Apache), Head Administrator has been in the field of education for over 28 years and holds teaching experience in all grades from K-8th grade, as well as experience leading gifted and talented students. Ms. Chatto has also served as a curriculum writer for the Jicarilla Apache Nation and with NMPED for social studies/Native American studies. Prior to work at Dream Diné Charter School, Ms. Chatto served as the Executive Director at Hanaadli Community School for 4 years supporting the Family and Child Education (FACE) early childhood BIE program, Residential and Kindergarten programs, including experience with engaging young students in agricultural science related to areas such as planting and harvesting. In addition, Ms. Chatto serves as an active member of the Navajo Nation Board of Education, representing the Eastern Agency area. Ms. Chatto lives in Farmington, New Mexico, where she enjoys quiet evenings with her husband, Ron. They have four daughters and three grandchildren.
Marla Lansing
Office Manager
Andrea Thomas
3rd, 4th and 5th grade Elementary Teacher/ Reading Interventionist
Yá’át’ééh Andrea Thomas yinishyè.
Ms. Thomas is an Diné educator who believes that students of all cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds deserve access to excellent teachers and high quality, culturally responsive instruction within their own communities. Coming from a family of educators and school administrators, Ms. Thomas has a true passion for teaching and preparing the next generation of learners. Ms. Thomas received her certification through the University of New Mexico, where she earned a B.A. in Elementary Education. She has been a looping 3-5th grade teacher in her home community of Shiprock, NM on the Navajo Nation since 2014 and now works as a Reading Interventionist and a 3rd – 5th grade teacher.
In addition to helping children, Ms. Thomas is committed to empowering teachers’ voices and improving parent advocacy to help improve education in Native Communities and throughout the state of New Mexico. She serves as an appointed member of the Navajo Nation Board of Education and remains active in various capacities with NMPED initiatives and non-governmental teacher advocacy programs like ‘Teach Plus New Mexico Teaching Policy Fellowship’. She has worked steadfastly to build strong and effective networks between communities, local and state educational institutions and other vested interests in the hopes of promoting collaborations which will improve the lives and futures of our students.
William King
Custodian and Courier
I’m William King, and I’m based in Shiprock, New Mexico. In my role as a Custodian and Courier, I take pride in keeping my workplace clean and organized while ensuring deliveries are made safely and on time. Outside of work, I’m passionate about outdoor activities. I enjoy farming, hunting, and sports, which allow me to connect with nature and stay active. Whether it’s tackling tasks at work or spending time outdoors, I’m dedicated, reliable, and always up for a challenge.
Zhoni Nells
K/1 Teacher; Educational Assistant
Yá’át’éé, shí éí Zhoni Nells yinishyé. I have been working at Dream Diné Charter School for three years, and this year I am serving as a long-term substitute. I work as an Educational Assistant, Substitute Teacher, and Office Assistant. I am currently taking classes at San Juan College, where I am majoring in Elementary Education.
In my free time, I enjoy singing (even though I’m not very good at it!), traveling, and camping with my family. I am married and we have four beautiful children. I am grateful to be part of the Dream Diné community and enjoy supporting our students, staff, and families every day.
