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.

DeAndrea Bell - 7th Grade English Language Teacher - 2001 - dkbell@cps.edu

"I love the staff that I work with and the diversity of the student population."

Loyola University of Chicago - Bachelors of Criminal Justice and Social Work
Depaul University - Masters in Elementary Education endorsed in ELA, Science, Social Science and ESL.

I did research on Chicago West side elementary students who had ADHD and Conduct Disorder at the University of Illinois Chicago.

Shopping, Reading, going to restaurants and watching sports (Yankees and Broncos!)

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!

Abigail Crino - 7th Grade Diverse Learner Classroom Assistant - 2021 - Chicago, IL - alcrino@cps.edu

My Mom's Living Room (Homeschooled!)
Joliet West High School
North Park University- Major in Nonprofit Business Management

I had just graduated college and had no idea where my life was going in terms of career. I was presented with this job opportunity from a family member and from the job description, it seemed like a wonderful chance to pour into the community, which is something I am passionate about.

Peterson is a community jam packed with leaders eager to outpour their resources, time, energy, and compassion into the neighborhood kids. It is amazing to see everyone working together even in the most difficult times.

Outside of Peterson I chef it up in the kitchen, glue myself to my bike for miles around the city, and hang out with the five dogs my family has accumulated over the years!