Hanby Elementary School
Administrative Team
Dr. Melinda Tartaglione
Principal
I have been in education for 24 years, beginning my career teaching Spanish, German and English as a Second Language. I spent 3 years living in Germany and 1.5 years in Puerto Rico, as an exchange student first and then living there with my family. I entered education excited to teach children and share my love of languages, culture and the fun of communicating with others. I taught at the high school level for 15 years, have been at the middle school level for 7 years, and have 1 year at elementary. Through all of these years and levels, connecting and building relationships has been at the heart of my work. I care deeply about building strong academic systems and providing students with enriching experiences. Over the years, I have worked with AVID, International Baccalaureate, ESL, MTSS, BSAP, special education and Gifted and Talented, and have learned that it takes intentionality to help each program thrive and also the importance of bringing all of these pieces together as one strong school community. This is my 10th year in Brandywine School District and I have a Masters in Teaching and Supervision and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership.
I am married and have four children, and that is where all of my free time is spent. My oldest son has autism and he prefers the quiet of being in his quiet spaces, so we enjoy time at home together with his favorite music and videos, and going for walks. My two youngest are in middle school and love soccer, baking, and, of course, Minecraft. My second son is enjoying his career and I couldn’t be more proud of him. I enjoy gardening, reading, listening to Salsa, and just relaxing with my husband and kids. A dog, a bossy cat, and some fish round out the family.
With a commitment to building a strong community and an excellent educational program, I am very excited to join Hanby Elementary. I welcome the opportunity to meet and build strong ties with families and students, and I hope to connect with you soon at back-to-school events, tours, and special programming.
The school - home partnership is extremely important, so please reach out with any questions or just to connect.
Ms. Dawn Camfield
Dean of Students
I am a dedicated educator with 33 years of experience, including 28 years of service to the Brandywine School District. I began my career at Claymont Elementary School, where I spent 10 years teaching fifth grade, and then continued to Springer Middle School, teaching seventh and eighth-grade social studies for 17 years. During my time at Springer, I served as an instructional coach, cooperating teacher for U of D, was the National Junior Honor Society advisor and department chair for the social studies department, roles that allowed me to support both student leadership and instructional growth.
I hold an undergraduate degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s degree in Economics and Entrepreneurship from the University of Delaware. I am passionate about working with students and families to create a learning environment where every student feels valued, supported, and capable of success.
As a Concord High School graduate who still lives in the community, I treasure the lasting relationships built over my years in education. One of my greatest joys is seeing former students grow into thriving adults who are contributing to our community.
I am excited to bring my experience, compassion, and community-centered approach to my role as Dean of Students at Hanby Elementary School.
Administrative Assistants
- Chakara Davis, Administrative Assistant
- Danita Ellis, Administrative Assistant