Ilia Adorno is a wife, a mother of two Orange County Public Schools graduates, and a dedicated educator with 25 years of experience serving District 3. Throughout her career, Ilia has taught students in grades K–12 and held a variety of leadership roles, all centered on advocating for students, families, and educators.

Ilia graduated Cum Laude from Dowling College in New York with a degree in Education. She began her teaching career as a high school English teacher with the Houston Independent School District. After her first year, she was selected to help pioneer a new district initiative and established a Prescriptive Reading Lab Program. Under her leadership, students gained the literacy skills needed to successfully pass graduation competency exams.

Concerned by the level of illiteracy in inner-city schools, Ilia chose to focus her work on foundational reading instruction. She completed graduate-level coursework in Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Houston, earned her elementary certification, and transitioned into elementary education. Her commitment to literacy extended beyond the classroom, as she taught Adult ESOL courses at the community college level and partnered with the local police department to teach Spanish to officers, helping strengthen communication within the community.

In 1996, Ilia joined Orange County Public Schools, where she assumed numerous leadership roles over the course of her career, including Team Leader, Reading Coach, Instructional Coach, New Teacher Mentor, MTSS Coach, and Behavior Designee. As a Reading Coach, she was invited to present her school’s Exemplary Literacy Program at both the Florida Reading Association Conference and the International Reading Association Conference in Reno, Nevada. Whether presenting at conferences, coaching teachers, or organizing parent trainings, Ilia’s work has always focused on improving student outcomes.

Most recently, Ilia has served as an advocate for students with unique abilities. She understands that when students struggle—academically or behaviorally—the challenges are real and require thoughtful, collaborative support. Ilia believes every child deserves access to a high-quality education and the opportunity to succeed.

Outside of her professional life, Ilia enjoys spending time with her family and friends and frequently hosts weekly dinners. In her free time, she enjoys road biking, reading, and snorkeling. Ilia is an active member of Viva Church, where faith, family, and community are central to her life.

Vote August 18th

Together, we can strengthen our schools and invest in our children’s future.

Ilia Adorno for School Board District 3

vote@iliaadorno.com