EAST ALTON - With more than two decades of service dedicated to a single school community, Kelli Decker has built her career on relationships, trust, and a heartfelt belief that education can change the trajectory of students' lives. Decker has been named the new superintendent of schools for East Alton School District 13 schools for the 2026-2027 school year.
Her commitment to students, staff, and families in the East Alton School District has been shaped by firsthand experience in classrooms, school leadership, and districtwide instructional work, giving her a comprehensive understanding of how strong systems support student success.
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Decker currently serves as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction for the East Alton School District, bringing 21 years of dedicated service to the district. Having spent her entire career in East Alton, she offers an authentic understanding of the community, its values, and its aspirations. Her professional journey includes roles as a classroom teacher, K–8 instructional coach, and principal of the East Alton Middle School, experiences that have shaped her student-centered and relationship-driven leadership approach.
Throughout her career, Decker has been recognized for her strengths in instructional leadership, systems alignment, staff development, and collaborative problem-solving. She has led districtwide curriculum initiatives, supported educators through coaching and professional learning, and partnered closely with building leaders to strengthen instructional practices. Her work reflects a strong commitment to continuous improvement, clear communication, and ensuring decisions are grounded in what is best for students.
Decker holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, a Master’s degree in Educational Instructional Strategies, and an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership, along with a Superintendent Endorsement. She is deeply invested in the East Alton community and believes strong schools are built on trust, transparency, and shared responsibility. Her leadership is guided by a belief in celebrating successes, supporting people, and working together to create meaningful opportunities for every student.