Ella Champion Video Text

One of the town’s most beloved teachers, Ella Champion was born in Niles on May 11, 1872. After graduating from Niles High School, Champion began teaching in the local school system. She attended summer sessions at the University of Chicago and took correspondence courses to receive her bachelor’s degree in education.

Ella Champion spent her entire professional career as an art teacher and administrator in the Niles Community Schools.

In her obituary several colleagues and former students shared memories of Champion and discussed her impact as a teacher. For example, one colleague said Ella was “of course interested in art, and able to convey her excitement to the children, but she also intrigued them with her understanding of other areas. She was an expert in nature study and a great story teller. She really captivated children with her stories and also her poetry readings.”

Outside of the classroom, Ella Champion enjoyed painting and writing poetry. She worked primarily in watercolors and is well known for her hand-painted greeting cards, usually featuring a bird or other nature scene.
Ella Champion was also active in the community, serving as a charter member of the Niles Business and Professional Women’s Club.

She died on December 14, 1968, and is buried at Silverbrook Cemetery with her mother, Maria, and sister, Martha.