Administrators' Page

Dear First State School Families, Students, and Community,

Welcome to First State School, a place where we believe that every child deserves access to education, no matter the challenges they face. Our School provides K-12 education for children and adolescents who, because of serious illnesses, might otherwise be homebound. Located within Wilmington Hospital and operated in partnership with Christiana Care Health System and Red Clay Consolidated School District, First State School offers a unique blend of compassionate medical support and challenging academics so our students can continue learning and growing alongside their peers. 

At First State School, our mission is more than just teaching. It's about providing hope, normalcy, and opportunity during a difficult time. While receiving treatment for conditions such as diabetes, asthma, sickle-cell anemia, cancer, or other serious illnesses, students here are part of a caring community that supports both their health and academic progress. Our goal is to help each student maintain continuity in their learning, so when they are ready, they can transition back to a traditional school setting with confidence and readiness. 

Our dedicated team of teachers, nurses, and support staff works daily to ensure that learning stays accessible and meaningful. With individualized attention, medical support in the classroom, and a flexible student-centered environment, we strive to create a school experience that honors each student's unique journey. 

As principal, I am deeply honored to lead this compassionate, resilient, and inspiring community. I believe in the strength of our students, the dedication of our staff, and the unwavering support of our families. During your time here, we will work together through challenges and triumphs to ensure that every student thrives academically, emotionally, and socially. 

Thank you for entrusting us with your child's education and care. We care committed to walking beside you, supporting you, and celebrating each step forward. 

Respectfully, 

Kathleen Mattix

Principal, First State School

We are a specialized program, dedicated to supporting students living with chronic illnesses.  Our mission is to empower students with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage their health while embracing their role as students.  We believe that chronic illness is just one part of who they are, and our goal is to help them navigate their academic journey without allowing their illness to define who they are.

Elizabeth Houser
Program Coordinator
First State School

My name is Alex Ellison, and I have the pleasure of being the Assistant Principal for the First State School as well as the Meadowood Program's elementary sites. I joined the team in 2025 and am thrilled to be part of the Red Clay and First State School communities. Prior to joining Red Clay, I spent the past 14 years in the Colonial School District in a variety of roles, including 7th-grade Social Studies teacher, special education teacher, special education coordinator, and, most recently, Student Advisor. I am also an adjunct instructor at Wilmington University in the Master's in Special Education Program, teaching a variety of courses. Outside of work, I live in New Castle County with my husband, our three-year-old son, and our rescue pup. I love to travel, shop, and relax with family and friends. I very much value open communication, community, and connection, so please feel free to reach out to me if I can be of support or assistance. Email is definitely the easiest way to reach me (alexandra.ellison@redclay.k12.de.us) or my office phone number is (302) 454-3400