Indy Standard

Welcome to the IPS Employee Spotlight, where we focus on individuals making a significant impact within Indianapolis Public Schools. In this session, Mary Dillon discusses her career and contributions to the district.

Mary Dillon has been with Indianapolis Public Schools for over three years, initially serving as the District K–12 Science Coach and now as the District K–12 Senior Science Coordinator. Her current role involves leading science instructional initiatives across the district, supporting teacher development, and overseeing the implementation of the K–12 science curriculum.

Dillon is committed to the district’s mission and values the diversity that IPS students bring to their classrooms. Her duties encompass professional development, instructional coaching, curriculum design, and leading STEM enrichment programs aimed at enhancing student achievement on assessments like ILEARN.

In an interview, Dillon shared her academic background: "I hold a Bachelor of Science in General Biology from UNC Asheville and a Master of Science in Biological Sciences from Mississippi State University." She transitioned from ecological research and higher education instruction to K-12 education to inspire young minds and improve science literacy.

Dillon chose IPS due to its commitment to equity: "The chance to support both teachers and students at scale aligns with my passion for improving access to high-quality science education." She emphasized the collaborative spirit within IPS as a key motivator for her continued work there.

She views education as transformative: "Education is a powerful tool for transformation. It opens doors, challenges perspectives, and uplifts communities." Seeing students grow in confidence inspires her daily.

One of Dillon's notable achievements was leading the rollout of a new K-12 science curriculum aligned with Indiana Science Standards. This initiative resulted in 97% classroom adoption within a year and improved student proficiency on state assessments.

Dillon approaches her work with collaboration in mind: "I approach each day with a focus on collaboration and impact," prioritizing communication with teachers and data-informed decision-making.

Discussing the Rebuilding Stronger initiative, she said it reimagines how IPS can better serve students through equitable resource distribution: "Its focus on ensuring all students have access to rigorous coursework aligns with my passion for equity in science education."

To new educators or staff members joining IPS, Dillon advises staying curious, building relationships, and utilizing support systems offered by IPS. She encourages maintaining connection to one's purpose: "Stay connected to your 'why' and know that your contributions are valued."

For educators, students, families, and staff alike, she offers encouragement: "Growth happens where curiosity meets courage... Together we create learning environments where discovery thrives."