Get to know the individuals that make Peterson Elementary great!
Anthony Tournis - STEM Teacher- Antioch, IL - 2019 - ajtournis@cps.edu
Emmons School
Antioch Community High School
Western Illinois University - Bachelor Of Arts
National Louis University - Masters In Teaching
I came to teaching as a second career. I have been a member of the Chicago theater community since the early 2000's and have been an actor, playwright, and casting director. I came to teaching due to a passion for science and critical thinking. I would like to mix my passion for science education with my entertainment background to create a class that is educational and entertaining at the same time.
“My favorite thing about Peterson is the strong sense of community and the very welcoming environment.”
I still perform from time to time. I also enjoy spending time with my wife and daughter, getting caught up on new video games, and watching movies.
Erik Juhl - Music Teacher and Band Director - 2019 - Highwood, IL - ejuhl@cps.edu
Oak Terrace Elementary
Northwood Junior High
Highland Park High School
Bradley University - Bachelor of Arts in Instrumental Music Education and Music Composition
I've always loved music and I knew from an early age that sharing that love and helping others grow as musicians was something that seemed hard-coded into me.
Upon leaving college, I took a position as an adaptive music teacher music and teacher aide at a school for diverse learners in the northern suburbs of Chicago. It was a great experience and I was fortunate to learn how to work with students with a great variety of needs. I started my career in CPS at Greeley Elementary School and began working with CPS' Department of Arts Education a few years later as a director, composer, and arranger for their All-City Performing Arts program. When I saw an opening at Peterson, I jumped at the opportunity after hearing through colleagues the amazing things that Peterson's music program was doing.
“Aside from its incredible diversity, the Peterson community has blown me away with its incredibly supportive staff, students, and parents. It was during Peterson's Back To School picnic that I knew I was going to be working at some place special; the students and parents were just so welcoming.”
Away from my time at Peterson, I enjoy long bicycle trips, building computers and playing computer games, composing original works for wind band, and performing around town as a jazz, classical, and rock musician.
Estevan Rosales - Physical Education Teacher - 2018 - Summit, IL - erosales30@cps.edu
Graves Elementary
Heritage Middle School
Argo Community High School
Moraine Valley Chicago State University
I was actually interviewing for another school but lost the position due to time infraction. I was referred to Peterson by the principal that I first interviewed with and have fallen in love with the school.
“I love the atmosphere at Peterson. The school is very rich in diversity in religion, and ethnicities. I love learning and being able to work with students who have a background in being a first generation immigrant just as myself.”
My favorite thing to do outside of Peterson is hang out with friends and family.
Lauren Martinez - Physical Education Teacher - 2023 - Chicago, IL - lmmartinez28@cps.edu
Oriole Park Elementary
Taft High School
Aurora University
Northeastern Illinois University
I originally wanted to major in Nursing. I went to nursing school for a couple of years until I realized it was no longer my passion. I knew I loved to work with children and decided to pursue teaching. I have not looked back ever since and am extremely blessed to have a career I love.
My favorite thing about Peterson is the diversity. I am excited to learn about the different cultures and traditions of other students. The students and staff are also extremely friendly and welcoming.
I enjoy kayaking, fishing, pickleball, and spending time with my family when I am not at Peterson.