Lisset Larios - Kindergarten Teacher - 2020 - Michoacán, Mexico - llarios4@cps.edu

Federico Garcia Lorca Elementary School
Carl Schurz High School
Arrupe College of Loyola University Chicago - Associate's Degree in Social and Behavioral Sciences
Loyola University Chicago - Bachelor of Science in Psychology
National Louis University - Master of Arts in Teaching- Early Childhood Education

I was part of the CPS Teacher Residency Program. I completed my residency year in a general Kindergarten classroom at Peterson Elementary, and I loved my mentor, the students, and the community that is Peterson.

My favorite thing about Peterson is the sense of community! Since day one, I have seen how supportive and caring everyone, staff and students, are of one another- making working at Peterson such a joy!

I love spending time with my family- my mom, two younger sisters, my partner, and 2 cats.

Marissa Herrera - Kindergarten Diverse Learner Teacher - 2020 - Bloomington, IL - mherrera99@cps.edu

Glenn Elementary School
Kingsley Junior High School
Illinois State University

Throughout college, I always knew that I wanted to move to Chicago to start my teaching career. Once I began my search for the right school, I discovered Peterson, and fell in love with the community and all that this school has to offer.

My favorite thing about Peterson is the diversity of the students, how welcoming both the students and staff have been, and the amazing group of teachers that I have the pleasure of working with.

Outside of Peterson I love to spend time with my friends and family, and try out new restaurants in the city!

Michael Golub - Kindergarten Teacher - 2012 - Chicago, IL - mdgolub@cps.edu

"I love teaching each day and seeing the joy in kids' faces and watching them grow and learn together academically and socially."

Robert Frost Elementary
Holmes Jr. High, Prospect High School
Monmouth College (Business Administration, Economics)
National-Louis University-Masters Degree (Education)
Concordia University-Masters Degree (Educational Leadership)

This school year is my 17th year teaching kindergarten. My wife Kristin and I have two amazing sons Fletcher (7 years old) 2nd grade this year and Arlo turning 5 this fall and starting kindergarten! We live in Norwood Park and love exploring local woods, parks and of course ICE CREAM SHOPS! We have two beautiful cats, Vivian and a kitten Bernie. My favorite children's book is The Giving Tree. My favorite children's book authors are Todd Parr and Peter Reynolds.

Outside of teaching I love Vegetables, spending time with my kids, reading, running, walking, and gardening.

Jennifer MacFarland - Kindergarten Teacher - 2002 - Chicago, IL - jacommon@cps.edu

"I love being at a school with so much diversity. At Peterson we embrace each others ethnic, cultural, and academic differences."

Daniel Boone Elementary School
Mather High School
Knox College in Galesburg, IL

I was a kindergarten teacher at an elementary school in Sycamore Illinois.  My husband and I missed the diversity of the city so we moved back to Chicago.

I love to read and I enjoy going to baseball games with my family.

Adwena Kina - Kindergarten Teacher - 2023 - Iraq - akina@cps.edu

Minnie Mars
Jamieson Elementary
Northtown Academy Highschool
National Louis University

I took a break from teaching during the pandemic, so that I can help take care of my parents. I went back to National Louis University during this time to get my ESL endorsement and began to consider getting my Masters in SPED. Before taking the classes, I decided to get more experience working in SPED. I knew Ms. Yousif previously and she spoke so highly of this school. Upon seeing the staff and how qualified they are, wanting to work here was an easy decision. I applied over the summer and have been here ever since.

My favorite thing about Peterson is the staff. Not only are they so welcoming, but the passion, dedication and support they show everyday is admirable and inspiring.

I enjoy working out at the gym and spending time with my family.

Lisette Hernandez - Kindergarten Teacher Assistant - 2023 - Chicago, IL - lmhernandez23@cps.edu

Burley Elementary
Lincoln Park HS
Northeastern Illinois University
St. Augustine College

I always wanted to have a career in education. I was led in a different direction but made my way back to what I love most, working with children! I spent a couple years as a TA for Pre-K and took a year off to nanny for a wonderful family. I visited Peterson as a Sub-TA one day and the rest is history!

I was blown away by how friendly and genuine everyone was! It really spoke to the sense of community here. And the diversity was nothing short of impressive!

I love to spend time with my three dogs.... they sure keep me busy!

Isabelle Yousif - Kindergarten Classroom Assistant - 2009 - Lebanon - iyyousif@cps.edu

University in Lebanon

I was volunteering at Peterson while all my three daughters attended and graduated from Peterson.

"My favorite thing about Peterson is that everyone works together as a team."

Outside of Peterson, I enjoy being with my family and all my friends.