Get to know the individuals that make Peterson Elementary great!

 

Zulema Sanchez - 7th Grade Science Teacher - 2016 - Chicago, IL - zsanchez5@cps.edu

Audubon Elementary
Lane Tech High School
Indiana Institute of Technology
Northeastern Illinois University

I started teaching as soon as I graduated and I was at the right place and right time and was able to interview at Peterson. It's all history from there!

"I love that Peterson has a good representation of the diversity in Chicago. Both staff and students are highly diverse."

I love spending time with my family and trying new cuisine throughout the wonderful city of Chicago.

Rob Reynolds - 6th and 7th Grade Math Teacher - 2002 - Hoffman Estates, IL - rlreynolds@cps.edu

"Diversity of people, variety of activities, wide range of opportunities."

Lakeview Elementary School
Helen Keller Junior High School
James B. Conant High School
Drake University - Bachelor of Arts in Economics with Minor in Mathematics
DePaul University - Masters of Curriculum and Instruction

Previously I taught middle school science at Nobel and middle school math at Drummond.  Peterson had posted an opening, I had heard great things from friends & neighbors so I applied.

We enjoy visiting & experiencing places near & far as a family.

Allison Lewis - 7th Grade Diverse Learner Teacher - 2023 - Brooklyn, NY - alewis132@cps.edu

P.S. 217 Colonel David Marcus School - Elementary School
M.S. 51 William Alexander - Middle School
Urban Academy Laboratory - High School
Knox College - Bachelor or Arts
University of Illinois Chicago - Master of Special Education

I grew up in Brooklyn, NY and have always been a city girl. Before becoming a teacher, I worked in the non-profit and social work world. In 2021 I decided to go back to school to become a teacher. I am very excited to be part of this incredible community.

The community's diversity is incredible and is such a strength for the school.

I love to go on long bike rides all around the city!

Melissa Bárcenas - 7th Grade English Language Teacher - 2024 - Chicago, IL - mbarcenas3@cps.edu

Charles Darwin Elementary School
Carl Schurz High School
Northeastern Illinois University- Bachelor of Arts in Education
College of Education- English as a Second language and Bilingual Education Endorsement. 

Previously taught Spanish as a foreign language, English as a second language and History to both middle and high school students. I love teaching and working in multicultural environments. As a former ELL student I had teachers that motivated me to learn English and believe in myself which is why I was inspired to become an educator. I am excited to be a part of a school like Peterson Elementary that celebrates diversity and believes that all students can reach their full potential. 

During my free time I love to spend time with my children, dog, turtle and sun conure. 

Yasmin Rihani - 7th Grade Diverse Learner Classroom Assistant - 2019 - Mount Prospect, IL - ynrihani@cps.edu

St. Raymond School
St. Viator High School
Northeastern Illinois University

As far back as I can rememberI've always wanted to work with children. While looking for an internship to complete my undergrad, a professor/local community member suggested I look into Peterson. I really enjoyed my time at Peterson while completing my hours in 1st grade. I was lucky enough to find an opening as a Diverse Learner classroom assistant and the rest is history.

I love seeing the diversity in the community! Also the passion and support that comes from the educators.

I enjoy yoga, traveling, and spending time with my friends and family!