Meet Mr. Keller

Hello and welcome to the 2024-2025 school year! My name is Ryan Keller and I am so excited for another First Grade year here at Madison Traditional Academy!

This fall begins my 30th year in education and my eleventh year at Madison Traditional. I was in the Scottsdale Unified School District for nineteen years. Seventeen of those years were at Cheyenne Traditional School. I have taught 4th, 3rd, and 1st grades. I even had the opportunity to serve as Cheyenne's Assistant Principal for two years. During that time, I realized that I missed teaching and being in the classroom. So, I made the decision to return to the classroom. Now, I am enjoying all the great experiences and people in the Madison community. First grade is easily my favorite grade to teach. There is so much great learning that happens from reading and writing, to math, science and social studies. Of course, we will get in a lot of practice with those phonograms!

I am originally from Minnesota. My parents moved us here in 1986, so I feel like I've achieved "Arizona native" status now! After graduating from Coronado High School in Scottsdale, I went to Flagstaff where I received my Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Northern Arizona University. Shortly after, I also earned a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from NAU. Being a lifelong learner, I decided to go back to school, again, and in August 2015, I earned a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Reading. I love being a student and really enjoy the collaboration time I have with fellow teachers. I am also a Spalding Certified Teacher and have had the opportunity to teach teachers the methodology and philosophy of the Spalding program.

During my free time, I enjoy working on projects around the house. It seems like there is always something to do! I enjoy spending time outside walking, or going to the gym. I also enjoy spending time with my friends and family, watching movies, and reading.

I'm looking forward to a great year!!