CONTACT
ADDRESS
2169 Stillwater Avenue E
St. Paul, MN 55119
Phone 651-738-4875
Fax 651-738-8268
HOURS
Office
Mon - Fri :
7:45 am-4:15 pm
School Day
8:35 am-3:50 pm
CONTACT
ADDRESS
2169 Stillwater Avenue E
St. Paul, MN 55119
Phone 651-738-4875
Fax 651-738-8268
HOURS
Office
Mon - Fri :
7:45 am-4:15 pm
School Day
8:35 am-3:50 pm
Office Staff
RESPECT each individual's uniqueness, cultural heritage and opinions and ideas
When you walk into Achieve Language Academy, “Welcome to Achieve,” aren’t just words spoken. They come to life in the actions of the friendly people who greet and support everyone who enters the main office.
Clear, frequent and accurate communication is critical for schools to be successful. Our office staff is bilingual, experienced, and knowledgeable. They, like everyone who works at Achieve, have a unique love and commitment to our school and our children – and it shows. The people are what make this a caring and wonderful preK to 8th grade public school.
Meet the executive director (principal), office staff and coordinators of Achieve, a community gem.



Directors
Curtis Windham
Executive Director
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Dr. Windham was born and raised in Wichita, Kansas, and has lived in Chicago, Il, Detroit, MI, Monroe, MI and Clawson, MI before moving to Minnesota in 2006. After spending 18 years working with The Salvation Army, Dr. Windham became the Executive Director of another charter school in Minneapolis, where he led the school for six years before becoming the Executive Director at Achieve Language Academy. Additionally, Dr. Windham teaches adult students in the College for Adult Professional Studies department for Grad School students (CAPS/GS) at Bethel University and has taught in this program for six years.
Dr. Windham has graduated from The Salvation Army's College for Officers' Training, and has a BA and MA from Bethel University in Organizational Leadership and has recently graduated from Bethel University again with his Doctorate in Educational Leadership.
Dr. Windham is married to Dawn Windham who teaches 5th grade in St. Paul. Between them, they have seven children and three grandchildren
Kathy Oelze
Social Worker and Special Education Coordinator
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I have worked at ALA for over 20 years and can’t imagine being any place else. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my husband, children and extended family and friends. I love animals and have a Lakeland terrier, named Nina.
I admit I like warm weather best and enjoy hiking, biking, gardening, kayaking and just about anything that takes me outdoors. I also love to read, play piano and travel the world!
Taryn McGovern
Academic Director
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Hi, my name is Taryn McGovern, and I'm so excited to be here at Achieve! I have a BA in Psychology from the U of M and a MA in Special Education, Autism Spectrum Disorders from the University of St. Thomas. Prior to coming to Achieve, I was a special education teacher for nearly 10 years as well as the secretary of the school board, chair of the accountability committee, and a member of many other committees including curriculum, Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), and professional development.
I live in Vadnais Heights with my husband Matt, our son Keagan, and our dogs Bootsy Crouton and Princess Peanut Butter. As you can tell, we enjoy silly pet names! I also enjoy reading, going for walks, and spending time with my family and friends.
Office / Admin
Daniel Vega
I'm starting my 8th year at Achieve Language Academy as the Front Office Clerk. I have the honor and privilege of serving the staff, students, and the community at large. You will always find me at the front desk trying my best to answer your questions about our school and introduce you to our team of professional educators. Thank you for your interest!/Estoy comenzando mi octavo año en Achieve Language Academy en la oficina principal. Tengo el honor y el privilegio de servirle al personal, a los estudiantes y a la comunidad en general. Siempre me encontrarás en la oficinca haciendo todo lo posible para responderle sus preguntas sobre nuestra escuela y presentartlos a nuestro equipo de educadores profesionales. ¡Gracias por su interés!
Mai Lee
I have been with Achieve for 20 wonderful years. As a para, I have had the opportunity to work with creative teachers and support aspiring students. I have also had a chance to work in Response to Intervention (RTI), where my skills were challenged and made me a better mentor to students. I am grateful to have been given the opportunity to work in the office and support the Operations Manager. I am working currently as the office Generalist.