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Sarah Elizabeth Ippel
Founder & Executive Chairman
Sarah Elizabeth Ippel
Founder & Executive Chairman
- What is your favorite local food?
- Ramps, Morels and freshly harvested honey from my backyard bees!
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Madagascar, Montenegro & Mongolia
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- Llamas
- What is your favorite method of transportation?
- Skipping
Throughout her career, Sarah Elizabeth has traveled to over 90 different countries across 6 continents, extensively examining educational philosophies and world languages, as well as creating international alliances that have contributed to the design and culture of the Academy for Global Citizenship. When she was 23 years old, Sarah Elizabeth Ippel rode her bicycle to the Board of Education with a simple request: to reimagine what is possible in public education today. Three years later, in 2008, the Academy for Global Citizenship opened in a former dental tool factory on the city’s underserved Southwest side.
B.A., Trinity College
M. Phil., University of Cambridge
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Sylvie Anglin
Board Member
Sylvie Anglin
Board Member
- How long you have been engaged with AGC?
- Since the fall of 2015
- What drew you to AGC?
- I believe in the mission of the school, and our incredible teachers and students that live it every day.
- What do you love most about AGC? Or your most favorite experience at the school?
- The students and teachers. Every time I visit I am inspired and hopeful for our future!
- What committees are you involved with at AGC?
- Academic Excellence Committee
Sylvie Anglin is the Lower School Principal at the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, and serves as a Board Member for the Independent Schools Association of the Central States. Music, swimming, being outdoors and reading were early passions that fueled her formal education and continue to be a source of great joy. She earned an undergraduate degree in music performance, studying the French horn at the University of South Carolina. While earning her Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from UIC, Sylvie fell in love with Chicago’s museums and green spaces. Before joining the Lab Schools, she was a museum educator at the Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum. As a teacher at Lab since 1997, she worked with Chicago Park District’s Outdoor Classroom project and developed a science and conservation curriculum for students using Jackson Park as their classroom. She also worked for the Field Museum of Natural History as coordinator of the JASON project, bringing exciting international science research and exploration to Chicago-area schools.
Sylvie is raising two daughters, two coonhounds, and two tortoises in Hyde Park her husband, and she continues to play the French horn with the University of Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
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Heriberto Arriola
Organic Chef
Heriberto Arriola
Organic Chef
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- My birthplace, Guanajuato, Mexico. It looks like Spain and is so beautiful.
- What is your favorite local food?
- Thyme from the AGC garden.
- I can’t imagine my life without...
- My sons Isaac, and Diego, (both AGC students.)
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- I'd like to see an elephant, but i'll settle for sheep.
After graduating high school in Guanajuato Mexico, Heriberto moved to Chicago and started cooking. While looking for a good school for their son, Isaac, Heriberto’s wife read about AGC online and fell in love. When they weren’t selected in the lottery, she cried a lot. The next year, a spot opened up and Isaac transferred to AGC; his parents got involved in everything at the school! They love that the school is green, the food is organic and the teachers use different methods. Heriberto would like to grow with AGC as his sons grow and is grateful for the chance to join them at school every day.
Professional Culinary Certificate, St. Augustine College
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Kelly Ackmann
1st Grade Monolingual Teacher
Kelly Ackmann
1st Grade Monolingual Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- The Northwoods of Wisconsin!
- What in nature inspires you?
- Rain, specifically Arizona desert rainstorms.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- What do you love most about AGC?
- Developing bilingual and biliterate global citizens.
Lovingly called Ms. A by her students, Kelly’s passion for education stems from influential teachers throughout her life as well as her innovative mother who taught. Working in bilingual classrooms inspires Kelly, and quite simply, makes her happy. She is a firm believer that you can never understand one language until you understand at least two. Supporter of hands-on learning, Kelly likes to integrate technology into the classroom and works to inspire independent learners who have a true love for learning and themselves. When she is not teaching, she enjoys spending time with her dog, Biscuit, knitting, fishing up north, and cooking.
B.A. in Spanish, University of Illinois, Urbana – Champaign,
B.A. in Communication, University of Illinois, Urbana – Champaign,
Master’s in Teaching, National Louis University,
Spanish Language and Culture for Teachers, Universidad de Deusto, Bilbao, Spain
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Valery Balderas
4th Grade Dual Language Teacher
Valery Balderas
4th Grade Dual Language Teacher
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- “When you know better, you do better.” ― Maya Angelou
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Italy.
- What do you love about AGC?
- Not many schools give students the power or freedom to act on their wildest inquiries. We not only teach students to think of a creative idea, we encourage them to invent it, plan it, do it!
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Cows and goats. Would horses be too much?
Valery values AGC’s commitment to serve the whole child and hopes to empower her students to take pride in their diverse cultures, beliefs, and even languages. Raised on Chicago’s south side, Valery is fluent in English and Spanish and is excited to share her language, culture, and life experiences with her students.
In her free time, Valery enjoys reading, knitting, traveling, cooking, baking, and gardening in the new raised garden located in her backyard.
B.S. in Elementary Education, Loyola University Chicago
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Kathy Burke
Lunchoom Staff
Kathy Burke
Lunchoom Staff
- Your motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- As long as you do good, there will always be good in this world.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Everything. I don't think that the human mind can come close to comprehending the greatness and wonder of natures beauty.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- A pony and a turtle.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Japan or South America
Kathy was born and raised on the Southwest side of Chicago by a single mother and her maternal Grandmother. Having attended CPS schools her entire education, she has seen the system challenged to effectively educate and support all of its children.
Kathy also worked in the kitchen at a public high school for ten years before coming to the Academy for Global Citizenship in February of 2010. She is excited about AGC’s healthy and delicious food program!
A.A.S. in Criminal Justice, Richard J. Daley College
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Kelly Brinson
3rd Grade Monolingual Teacher
Kelly Brinson
3rd Grade Monolingual Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Tanzania, Africa - A place I called home for 3 years!
- What in nature inspires you?
- Rain.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- India - I have never been to Asia and would love to experience the vibrant culture while eating all of the street food.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I was drawn to AGC due to the focus on educating the whole child, specifically, the attention given to social and emotional development.
Kelly’s passion in the classroom stems from her foundational belief that a great education can change the trajectory of a child’s life. Her classroom is a jungle gym of learning where children develop holistically through an intentional focus on social-emotional development. Kelly empowers student voices in the classroom, inspires a love of words even in the most skeptical of readers, and encourages her students to never stop wondering. Outside of school Kelly enjoys spending time cooking with her husband, practicing yoga, tending to her backyard garden and traveling back to East Africa as often as she can!
B.A. Elementary Education, Wheaton College
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T. Paige Brown
4th Grade Dual Language Teacher
T. Paige Brown
4th Grade Dual Language Teacher
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Ashley Chacón
2nd Grade Teacher
Ashley Chacón
2nd Grade Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Anywhere with the ones I love.
- What in nature inspires you?
- I'm inspired by the constant work of all the living things in each ecosystem and how all the parts work together to continue the cycle.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Spain and Italy.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love instilling a love for our Earth and it's babies into our children here at AGC.
I am so excited to begin my 11th year of teaching at a school with such a beautiful philosophy. I have taught all over Chicago, Monterrey, MX, and on the Andros Islands and I bring all of those amazing experiences to my kids here at AGC. I am a mom of 3; a 5 year old and 2 year old twins who are all bilingual, aspiring global citizens as well.
B.S., Elementary Education, Minor in Earth Science at Eastern Illinois University
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Margarita Castillo
Individuals and Societies Teacher
Margarita Castillo
Individuals and Societies Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- The top of the Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan and the town of Tepoztlan, Morelos
- What in nature inspires you?
- The fresh scent of trees and flowers
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Peru and Italy
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The environmentally minded mission, enthusiasm of students, and supportive staff.
Margarita Castillo grew up in the Back of the Yards community and attended Curie High School. There, she joined Marine Corps JROTC Drill team, track team, and Marching/Concert band. She became the first in her family to graduate college, receiving a dual degree in Psychology and the teaching of History from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She’s currently pursuing a master’s degree in Educational Policy Studies with a focus on social justice and education. Her goal as an educator is to help students become independent thinkers who critically analyze and seek to improve our society.
University of Illinois at Chicago, BA Psychology, BA Teaching of History
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Melissa Chaidez
After School Program Coordinator
Melissa Chaidez
After School Program Coordinator
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Any quiet space with lots of sunlight.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Birds.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- The Amazon Rainforest & Galapagos Islands.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- A little goat!
From Kindergarten through 8th grade Melissa attended Chicago Mennonite Learning Center, a small private school in the very building that now houses AGC’s 47th St. location. From there, she completed the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program at Curie High School. Wondering what became of her old stomping grounds, she took a tour and was genuinely impressed with the work AGC was doing. She was working as an AmeriCorps volunteer at an alternative high school in Pilsen, as the end of her term approached, she decided to apply to opportunities at AGC. The After School Program Coordinator position was the perfect fit. She’s excited to be back!
B.A. in Comparative Human Development, University of Chicago
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Yeida Chavez
Paraprofessional
Yeida Chavez
Paraprofessional
- I wish that I could get everyone in the world to...
- Realize we are more alike than different.
- What in nature inspires you?
- I have lived in Chicago all my life but yet every winter the first snow always takes my breath away.
- What do you love about AGC?
- The heart beat and the innovative impulse.
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "Be kind whenever possible…It is always possible." -Dalai Lama
Born and raised in Chicago, Yeida enjoys visiting her extended family in Puebla Puebla Mexico as often as she can. She hopes to visit her husband’s family in Australia in the near future. She loves being a mom and has a passion for helping people out, especially children. Yeida loves art and tries to teach her kids everything she knows about it and continues to learn about it as well. She’s excited to be part of the AGC family!
A.A.S. in Visual Communications, International Academy of Design and Technology
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Jennifer Coker
Special Education Teacher
Jennifer Coker
Special Education Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Any place with my family
- What in nature inspires you?
- Being near the mountains where you can listen to the wind and be inspired by beautiful sunsets.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Nigeria.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The emphasis on social justice and helping our students develop into community and global leaders.
Jennifer has been teaching since 2012. Teaching has always been her passion and she has always been involved in the field of education. She graduated from Valparaiso University with a B.A. in Secondary Education and History in 2008. She added a Middle School Endorsement in 2012 from McKendree University and received her LBS1 in 2015 from National Louis University. She began her career in education working for the Illinois Student Assistance Commission providing college access and outreach to families in western Illinois. She taught African American Studies, Economics, Government, U.S. History and World History at Chicago Excel Academy (Roseland) from 2012-2015. She was a special education teacher at ACERO Victoria Soto High School from 2015-2018 and designed the Life Skills Program for students with special needs. Outside of school she enjoys playing with her dog, baking, and traveling.
B.A. History and Secondary Education Valparaiso University
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Marney Coleman
Sustainability Coordinator
Marney Coleman
Sustainability Coordinator
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Dewey Lake, Michigan
- What in nature inspires you?
- Ecosystems -- even the smallest organism plays an important role.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Honeybees!
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The amazing questions our students ask and our insightful staff who work diligently to foster and encourage this curiosity.
Marney is inspired by witnessing young students’ wonder and excitement about the natural world and observing older students thinking critically about how they can be problem solvers in the environment. She is looking forward to fostering a culture of stewardship at school. Marney has deep roots on Chicago’s southwest side and is excited to be a part of AGC’s educational ecosystem. She has worked in schools and environmental education organizations in Washington, DC; Birmingham, AL; and here in Chicago. Some of her favorite work with students has been piloting a student-run farmers market, designing and building solar ovens, and creating garden smoothies with a bicycle-powered blender! Outside of school you can find her anywhere outside — hiking, rollerblading along the 606 trail, or exploring one of the many urban farms of Chicago.
B.A., Environmental Studies, American University
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Maria Correa
Office Clerk
Maria Correa
Office Clerk
- What drew you to AGC?
- It just fit our lifestyle and family, we enjoy many things that AGC models and have been very happy with a wonderful family community that is AGC!
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- The first day of school for kindergarteners, to me its the most precious thing to see children starting their new journey in their life.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Anywhere where I can take a long nature walk with my family.
- Where would you like to visit next?
- Ireland, Italy and Spain.
Maria Correa is the proud mother of two. Maria and her husband Juan love to travel and take spontaneous trips. She learned to garden at a very young age from her great grandfather and grandmother. The Correa family enjoys anything that has to do with country living. While the Correas might live in the city, they have the country in our hearts.
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Yolanda Diaz
Instructional Interventionist
Yolanda Diaz
Instructional Interventionist
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Home with my family.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Trees.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Ecuador.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the amazing people I get to work with everyday. They motivate me everyday!
Yolanda Diaz was born and raised in Chicago and grow up in the Little Village neighborhood, where she attended a private elementary school. She graduated from John F. Kennedy High school and went on to attend DePaul University. She is very excited to be a part of the AGC family as a parent and a staff person.
B.A., DePaul University
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Lisa Dinesen
Second Grade Dual Language Teacher
Lisa Dinesen
Second Grade Dual Language Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- The ocean.
- What in nature inspires you?
- It's ability to change and adapt to its environment. The beauty of nature continuously amazes and inspires me.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- An alpaca.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love that AGC is a place full of people dedicated to taking risks to create real change in our childrens' lives.
Lisa is a passionate traveler and educator. She has lived in Denmark and Ecuador and considers herself and her two children to be citizens of the world. Her interest in education was sparked during her undergraduate studies of political science where she felt compelled to make a difference in society through education. Lisa’s passion for language and culture led her to travel and eventually seek her masters in Urban Education with a focus on bilingual education. She looks forward to continued growth through experiences as a member of the AGC family.
M.A. Urban Education Columbia College,
B.A. UW Madison, Political Science and Scandinavian Languages
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Katherine Elmer-DeWitt
External Initiatives Manager
Katherine Elmer-DeWitt
External Initiatives Manager
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Sheep.
- What in nature inspires you?
- The way things look (vivid,) feel (charged,) and smell (like the earth,) before a storm.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- North Africa.
- Your motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "I have come to the frightening conclusion that I am the decisive element. It is my daily mood that makes the weather… life miserable or joyous.” - Goethe
Katherine loves relativity and the power of environment. With her own environment, she played Goldilocks: New York was too big, the Twin Cities were too small, and Chicago is just right. The eco-system at AGC is beautifully evolved to encourage every element to thrive. Staff, students, and schoolyard chickens alike blossom in an empowered, intentional and caring environment. She is inspired every day by the people who have gathered around AGC to reimagine education.
B.A. in Psychology, Macalester College
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Sandra Enriquez
Paraprofessional
Sandra Enriquez
Paraprofessional
Sandra is a paraprofessional and parent of two AGC students and one proud AGC alums!
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Omaida Figueroa
2nd Grade Dual Language Teacher
Omaida Figueroa
2nd Grade Dual Language Teacher
- What in nature inspires you?
- Life inspires me. The changing in seasons is amazing to me. The colors and feel of an Autumn day is breath-taking!
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Spain and Ecuador.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- A pig.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The idea of growing and learning with the consciousness of you footprint in our environment.
Omaida Figueroa has been a teacher for 15 years and still learns something new every day. Omaida enjoys new experiences and promotes that with her own children at home. Omaida is passionate about reading and writing, and would love to write books one day. She would love to travel more.
B.A ., Liberal Arts, U of I Champain
M. Ed at University of Arizona
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Claudia Franco
Dual Language Kindergarten Teacher
Claudia Franco
Dual Language Kindergarten Teacher
- What in nature inspires you?
- Trees, because no matter what they have to go through, they remain standing!
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Colombia
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- Sheep
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The fact that everyone in the school has a voice.
Claudia was the first in her family to graduate from college, but hopefully not the last! She is a recent graduate who is seeking an opportunity to demonstrate her love and passion for teaching. She loves traveling, animals, and nature!
B.A., Northeastern Illinois University
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Liz Fyffe
Dual Language 3rd Grade Teacher
Liz Fyffe
Dual Language 3rd Grade Teacher
- Your motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are endless." - Mother Teresa
- What in nature inspires you?
- Heat and light.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Egypt.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- The coast of anywhere.
Liz was drawn to the holistic view of education AGC embraces. She also shares the belief that in today’s global community it is critical to empower the future generation to realize the power in their voices, experiences, and perspectives, while also listening to and respecting those of others. Liz couldn’t wait to share her passion for questioning, keeping an open mind, and sharing knowledge with her students at AGC. As their teacher, she is awed by the environment that a small but mighty group of learners can create. Becoming an educator is genuinely her dream come true.
B.A. in Sociology & Psychology, Minor in Spanish, Indiana University, Bloomington
M.A. in Social and Cultural Foundations of Education, DePaul University
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Aaron Fischer
7th & 8th Grade Language and Literacy Teacher
Aaron Fischer
7th & 8th Grade Language and Literacy Teacher
- What in nature inspires you?
- Birds inspire me because they are so diverse, self-sufficient, and beautiful. When I'm watching them, I feel peaceful.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- India
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Kauaii, Hawaii
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The acceptance of our differences, our strengths and struggles, and our passions.
I was born and raised in Brighton, Michigan. I earned my teaching degree at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan. In 2008 I moved to Chicago and taught at UNO Charter School Network from 2008 – 2012. I left UNO and taught at LEARN Charter School Network from 2012 – 2016. My wife, Leighna, is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with the Family Autism Center in Winnetka. We enjoy concerts, football, and spending time with family. I am very proud to be a part of the AGC family!
B.S., Elementary Education, Western Michigan University
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Cynthia Garcia
K-2 Spanish Teacher
Cynthia Garcia
K-2 Spanish Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- I have two places I absolutely love. First is my parent's hometown, Tabasco Zacatecas, MX. The second place is Sicily, Italy.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Oceans or lakes, they are so peaceful
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- India
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the environment, everyone is friendly and ready to learn!
Cynthia Garcia was born and raised in Chicago but her parents are from Mexico. Spanish is her first language and she is very passionate about other languages as well. Cynthia graduated from St. Mary’s University of Minnesota and is excited to be back in Chicago.
B.A. in Spanish Education, St. Mary’s University of Minnesota
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Paul Guilianelli
Director of Operations
Paul Guilianelli
Director of Operations
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- On a walk with my two boys.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Ecological resilience. I'm always amazed by the capacity of natural systems to reorganize in the face of constant change.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Tops on my list right now are Japan, South Africa and Colombia
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love working with such thoughtful and committed teammates.
Paul is thrilled to be part of the AGC community, supporting staff and students through his operations role. Prior to joining AGC he was Principal and Chief Operations Officer at The Montessori School of Englewood, an innovative pre-K through 7th charter school on Chicago’s South Side. Before that, Paul taught junior high math and science for six years using a project and game-based curriculum he designed himself. He’s also traveled, researched and wrote chapters for travel guides to Vietnam, Italy and India. Outside of work he enjoys spending time with his wife and two boys, and playing basketball and guitar.
BA in Psychology, Harvard University
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Claudia Herrera
Instructional Interventionist
Claudia Herrera
Instructional Interventionist
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Matt Hankins
Board Member
Matt Hankins
Board Member
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Minocqua, WI
- What in nature inspires you?
- Clean waves for surfing, calm waters for skiing, and snowy mountain faces for skiing.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Australia
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The passion that the students, teachers, board, and broader network have for delivering education in a better way.
Matt Hankins was born and raised in the Detroit area (“go Tigers, Red Wings, Pistons, and even Lions”). After graduating from Michigan he came to Chicago to pursue a career in finance. Matt lives downtown with his wife Tess, son Luke, and daughter Liza.
M.B.A, University of Chicago Booth School of Business,
B.S.E., Mechanical Engineering University of Michigan
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Amanda Hanley
Board Member, Development Committee, Chefs' Playground
Amanda Hanley
Board Member, Development Committee, Chefs' Playground
- What drew you to AGC?
- While interviewing Sarah Elizabeth as a top green woman in Chicagoland, it struck me how aligned our missions are to advance sustainability, education and opportunity. My husband and I enthusiastically support AGC’s groundbreaking model to develop future leaders – one day at the greenest, most engaging campus in the country!
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- During our first tour, Daisy laid an egg at our feet as the kids were showing us around the garden.
- Where would you like to visit next?
- Kona, Hawaii
Amanda Hanley is the CoFounder and Director of the Hanley Family Foundation, which supports innovative education, environmental and social empowerment initiatives. As an environmental advocate, she serves as a NRDC Global Leadership Council member and NRDC Midwest Council CoChair, Founder of North Shore Green Women and writes for her blog, wren.
M.A., Public Policy & Administration (in progress), Northwestern University
B.S., Northern Illinois University, Business Management
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Mert Hilmi Iseri
Vice Chair of the Board and Development Committee Co-Chair
Mert Hilmi Iseri
Vice Chair of the Board and Development Committee Co-Chair
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Where I am.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Billions of years old research and development.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- Seeing children excited about nature and sustainability.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Goats!
Mert Hilmi Iseri is the young turk of design. His journey started off in Istanbul and changed courses completely once he arrived at Northwestern’s McCormick School of Engineering. After graduating with his own degree “Entrepreneurial Design” in the spring of 2011, he is excited to embrace design and entrepreneurship to galvanize a generation into positive change. Currently, he is the CEO and Co-founder of SwipeSense – a company that aims to prevent the 100,000 deaths that occur every year in the US due to Hospital-Acquired Infections.
B.S. Entrepreneurial Design, McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University
Co-Founder & CEO, SwipeSense, Inc.
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Lisa Jimenez
Paraprofessional
Lisa Jimenez
Paraprofessional
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Ben Kovler
Board Member
Ben Kovler
Board Member
- How long you have been engaged with AGC?
- I visited AGC the first school year in 2008-2009. After launching Invest for kids in 2009, AGC was among the first cohort of beneficiaries, and our family foundation has supported our school annually. I later joined the board in 2013.
- What committees are you involved with at AGC?
- Finance & Facilities
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I’m a passionate advocate and supporter of AGC’s mission, to empower and nurture children with a broader understanding of the world around them and the positive role they can play in it.
Ben Kovler is the Chief Investment Officer for Kovpak II, LLC, an investment partnership company. In addition to his various investment management roles, Ben is co-founder and CEO of Invest For Kids (IFK), an annual forum that allows portfolio managers, family offices, private investors and analysts to collaborate and share investment ideas to benefit children in Illinois. In its first seven years, Invest For Kids generated more than $8,500,000 to benefit more than thirty-three youth organizations that have helped 85,000 children. As a former math teacher, he also authored the book, Fundrum My Conundrum: A Book of Riddles. Ben earned a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy, politics and economics from Pomona College and an M.B.A. in accounting and finance from The University of Chicago. Ben and his wife, Amy, enjoy living in Chicago with their two children.
MBA, University of Chicago, Booth School of Business
BA, Philosophy, Politics & Economics, Pomona College
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Rosalia Lopez
3rd - 6th Special Education Teacher
Rosalia Lopez
3rd - 6th Special Education Teacher
- What in nature inspires you?
- Trees inspire me because they are well grounded by their roots and stand up tall despite the different weather and seasons.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- I would like to see a cow. I find the milking process very fascinating and I am sure the students would as well!
- What do you love about AGC?
- AGC cares for the whole well being of the students, staff, communities and the world and sets an example for life in a better world.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- The lakefront in Chicago. Running down the lakefront brings me peace and serenity.
Rosalia loves to run and push herself in various physical challenges. She does Crossfit and has finished two marathons. She did Tough Mudder race and even walked up the Sears Tower (Willis Tower) for the SkyRise Chicago race! Rosalia’s goal is to do a race abroad. Her parents are from Mexico and she loves visiting their hometown. She also loves to knit and make scarves for her family, friends, and charities. Recently, Rosalia and her sister knitted hats for orphans in Afghanistan. She is excited to work at AGC!
B.S.in Psychology, Dominican University
M.S. in Special Education, Dominican University
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Diana Kraft
Kindergarten Monolingual
Diana Kraft
Kindergarten Monolingual
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David Magill
Board Member
David Magill
Board Member
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- I'm still looking.
- What in nature inspires you?
- The smell of ozone after a rainstorm
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- A dairy cow.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The children and the future of AGC.
Dr. Magill’s career spans over 45 years and includes teaching and administration in Pennsylvania and most recently serving as the Director (Head of School) at the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools. He consults with both public and independent schools and is the Chairman of the Board of the Educational Records Bureau. He is married with three daughters and seven grandchildren and shares time between Chicago and Sedona, Arizona.
B.S., Ohio State University
Ed. M., Temple University
Ed. D, Temple University
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Jonathan Luna
Instructional Interventionist
Jonathan Luna
Instructional Interventionist
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- MoMath, the National Museum of Mathematics in NYC.
- What in nature inspires you?
- The raw and untamable power of nature is inspiring. Within that power we can sometimes see mathematical patterns and actions, which I believe is beautiful.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Tokyo, Japan
- What do you love most about AGC?
- AGC provides a learning environment that helps kids grow not only as students but as members of society as well. AGC acknowledges a student’s unique attributes and expects the best out of all their students.
Jonathan was born and raised in the north side of Chicago. He has been in love with mathematics for as long as he can remember. Jonathan attended Chicago Public Schools from K-12. His time at UIC sprouted his passion for education; he volunteered at after school programs and then served as a math tutor for various grade levels. In addition to his work at at AGC, Jonathan does independent research on various branches of mathematics. Jonathan also enjoys eating new dishes and traveling to new places.
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics; Minor in Psychology | UIC
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Maribel Mares
Office Manager
Maribel Mares
Office Manager
- What in nature inspires you?
- Color.
- What is your favorite local food?
- My favorite local food is from AGC's garden - fresh chicken eggs, veggies, and herbs!
- What do you love about AGC?
- In the summer, you can find adults and children under the solar trellis having lunch and intriguing and fun conversation. I love that creative ideas spark everyday and they are realized with passion.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Cows and ducks
A writer, artist, and entrepreneur from the Southwest side, Maribel was drawn to AGC’s green principles rooted in her neighborhood. She acknowledged the need for such education in an urban environment and saw a renaissance dedicated to serving the community as a whole. Maribel leads, supports and organizes unique families and students interested in a unique education. They are learning as a family and embracing a lifestyle in order to impact not only their community, but the world.
At AGC, Maribel created La Pluma Writers Workshop, dedicated to nurturing students who want to develop writing that goes beyond the classroom.
B.A. Northern Illinois University
M.F.A. in Writing, School of the Art Institute of Chicago
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Meredith McNamara
PYP Coordinator and Founding AGC Teacher
Meredith McNamara
PYP Coordinator and Founding AGC Teacher
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- Anything Mark Twain ever said! “I have never let my schooling interfere with my education” or “The man who does not read has no advantage over the man who cannot read.”
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- The Reading Room in the British Museum.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- A flamingo.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love our kids' amazing ideas and the connections they make. I also love how they are empowered to take charge of their own thinking and learning.
Meredith Polley loves school more than any other place in the world, though she has visited many places, and is passionate about encouraging children to begin their school experience feeling the same way. She is adamant that literacy is the gateway to educational success and goes out of her way to make instilling a love for reading a cornerstone of her early education classroom. Perhaps most importantly, as an avid traveller, camper, and hiker Meredith cannot wait to show students a greater picture of the world at large – its beauties, its peoples, and its needs.
B.S. in Journalism and History, Northwestern University; M.A. in Elementary Education, Loyola Marymount University
Reading Specialist program at DePaul University
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Liz Middendorf
4th Grade Monolingual Teacher
Liz Middendorf
4th Grade Monolingual Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Anywhere camping...almost anywhere!
- What in nature inspires you?
- I am inspired by the intricacies of nature; it's complex systems work together in harmony.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- I would love to visit Italy.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the warm welcome I have received each morning by the many caring adults in this family. I have never worked in a school where with so many positive, encouraging, and supportive people in my many years of teaching!
Liz has been an educator for 16 years and has dedicated herself to serving underserved communities. Liz was drawn to AGC’s mission of serving the whole child. In her free time, Liz enjoys camping, volleyball, gardening and power tools. She likes to repurpose items, giving then new life and reducing waste.
B.A., Elementary Education, University of Illinois at Chicago,
M.A., Curriculum and Instruction, American College of Education,
M.A., Teacher Leadership, American College of Education
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Eduardo Narvaez
IT / Design Teacher
Eduardo Narvaez
IT / Design Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- The strip right by the planetarium where you can sit and view the skyline, sit on the grass, and watch the waves.
- What in nature inspires you?
- The ocean, it never stops!
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Thailand, I hear the food is amazing.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The passion that everyone has to help make it a better place.
Eduardo Narvaez has been living in Chicago since he moved from Mexico City. He loves everything technology and design, which is why he was overjoyed when he found a job at AGC that incorporated all of those things. This will Eduardo’s 5th year teaching in Chicago and when he’s not teaching, he is usually out finding a stand-up comedy show to go to or catching up on a new TV show.
M.Ed. Mathematics and Secondary Education
B.A., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Mathematics & Latin American Studies,
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Jesus Oviedo
Board Member
Jesus Oviedo
Board Member
- How long you have been engaged with AGC?
- I became a parent in 2016 and joined the AGC community Council (ACC) almost as soon as I got there. In November 2017, I was voted by AGC parents to be the Parent Representative on the Board.
- What drew you to AGC?
- The IB approach and whole-child education.
- What committees are you involved with at AGC?
- Academic Excellence Committee
- What do you love most about AGC?
- In a word, everything. I am a big proponent of progressive, innovative and child-centered education, the International Baccalaureate approach to learning, its philosophy with the IB traits and the focus on wellness.
Jesús Oviedo is an artist-educator, speaker, education consultant and collaborator in early education. He has worked for 14 years at Chicago Commons Association, a social service organization known for its adaptation of the Reggio Emilia Approach. In Illinois, Arizona, New Mexico and Oregon, he has encouraged educators’ best thinking around children’s learning and provided professional development. In 2013, he co-founded Crossroads for Learning, a non-profit that provides resources to educators and organizations exploring the Reggio Approach. This organization was founded by a small group of educators and now brings keynote speakers from across the US and Italy to Chicago.325
Jesús is married to an accomplished educator. Their son joined the AGC community in 2016 as a Kindergartener. They live in Chicago’s McKinley Park neighborhood.
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John Nix
Chairman of the Board, Finance and Facilities Committee Member
John Nix
Chairman of the Board, Finance and Facilities Committee Member
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Mount Kenya
- What in nature inspires you?
- The incredible beauty and diversity of the natural world, both locally in Chicago and across the globe.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- AGC is an example of an outstanding education that can be provided within a public school system. The daily hard work from the students, teachers, and staff is inspiring.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Alpacas
John Nix is Founder and CEO of Vobal Technologies, LLC, and has been an entrepreneur in the telecommunications/Internet field for the past 15 years. John is an inventor on 10 U.S. patents and 15 patent applications. He founded Go2Call, which was ranked the 22nd fastest growing technology company in North America over a five year period. John grew the company from inception to $20 million a year in revenue. He also received the “Best Bosses” award from Fortune Small Business Magazine. John is a founding board member.
B.S. in Physics, Davidson College
MBA, Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University; Master’s in Engineering Management, Northwestern University
Founder and CEO, Vobal Technologies, LLC.
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Maribel Ortega-Vasquez
AGC Community Council Member
Maribel Ortega-Vasquez
AGC Community Council Member
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Standing right next to my awesome family.
- What drew you to AGC?
- AGC’s dual language program and its focus on health, environment, and serving the whole child instantly drew me in.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- I would love to return to Oaxaca, Mexico
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- Witnessing my little one's growth as a dedicated and empathetic lifelong learner.
I developed many interests and goals throughout my life journey in Mexico and Chicago. At a young age, I became active in grassroots organizing and volunteered with several organizations; I continue to be active in a social justice organization called La Voz de los de Abajo. Currently, I work as a youth mentor/advocate in an alternative education setting; I am committed to social justice through positive youth development and providing safe spaces for young people to discover who they are, how they fit in the world, and how they can empower themselves to lead powerful and meaningful lives.
B.A. in Latin American and Latino Studies, DePaul University.
M.Ed. in Youth Development, University of Illinois at Chicago
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Julia O’Grady
Lunchroom Manager
Julia O’Grady
Lunchroom Manager
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- Laugh as much as you breathe and love as long as you live.
- What in nature inspires you?
- To see the sun rising first thing in the morning.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Africa
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Llamas
Julia was born in Ciudad Guzman, Jalisco and came to the US when she was 15 years old. She is now married with four children. Julia started working for CPS in 2004 and later found herself as the founding Kitchen Manager of a little school called AGC.
Ricard J. Daley College
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Jen Radja
Middle School Math Teacher
Jen Radja
Middle School Math Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- I'm happiest around a bonfire with friends.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Seeing the way nature adjusts and compensates to changes in the ecosystem is awesome.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- The Mediterranean.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the people that make the AGC community and share a common vision for our students and the world!
Chicago native. CPS alum. Sox fan. Guacamole-maker. Jen Radja currently lives in Hyde Park with an original Nintendo system and an impressive collection of plants. Jen taught math and science in CPS for a few years on the south and west sides of Chicago before joining AGC. Jen is passionate about teaching math because it makes us better thinkers. It helps us make good financial decisions. It gives us tools to solve problems. It helps us make sense of data. Jenn Radja hopes to teach math for a very long time.
BA, Elementary Education, National-Louis University
M.Ed, Urban Education, National-Louis University
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Jose Rangel
School Safety Coordinator
Jose Rangel
School Safety Coordinator
- What in nature inspires you?
- The quietness and stillness after a heavy snowstorm.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Machu Picchu, Peru
- Fill in the blank:
- I wish that everyone in the world would... care more for each other and do more for one another.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the process of learning. It amazes me the different ways children learn.
Born and raised in Chicago, Jose Rangel learned about street culture. Jose attended the Academy of Art to expand his knowledge of cultures and arts around the world. Jose films as art versus entertainment. Jose is determined to work towards a problem-solving approach while ensuring community safety and collaboration within AGC.
American Academy of Art
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Enedina Rojas
Paraprofessional
Enedina Rojas
Paraprofessional
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Saskia Gorospe Rombouts
1st Grade Dual Language Teacher
Saskia Gorospe Rombouts
1st Grade Dual Language Teacher
- What is your favorite local food?
- AGC pozole.
- What is your favorite method of transportation?
- My feet.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- A donkey.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Trees
Saskia’s passion for working with English Language Learners stems from her bicultural background. Having been born in the Basque Country in Spain to a Flemish mother, she attended a Spanish/German dual language school and was raised trilingual. After living in different countries, and working as an educator for many years, Saskia landed at AGC committed to creating a safe and vibrant learning environment where children can be proud of who they are, and can grow fully bilingual and bi-literate.
B.A. in German Area Studies and Linguistics, University of East Anglia, (Norwich, UK)
M.A. in Elementary Urban Education, Long Island University
ESL/Bilingual Education Diploma, Erikson Institute
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Nico Rosalez
Kitchen Staff
Nico Rosalez
Kitchen Staff
- What in nature inspires you?
- The forest.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Rome
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- Peacocks
- I wish that I could get everyone in the world to...
- live in peace.
Nico was born in Mexico and has two brothers. She has lived in chicago for the past 30 years and has four children who are her pride and joy. The fact that her mother lives far away in Mexico makes her appreciate having her family close and makes her a better mother. Working at the Academy for Global Citizenship allows her to make an impact on these children’s education. Nico wishes there were more schools like AGC.
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Berenice Salas Rangel
Middle School Individuals and Societies Teacher
Berenice Salas Rangel
Middle School Individuals and Societies Teacher
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "To be surprised, to wonder, is to begin to understand." - Jose Ortega y Gasset
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Machu Picchu
- What do you love about AGC?
- I love the inspiration that floats in the air - resonating from our families, students, and staff.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Anywhere with family- they are my inspiration.
Berenice Salas is very enthusiastic to be teaching in the Academy for Global Citizenship’s community. Her career goal has always been to teach on Chicago’s southwest side in her own comunidad. In 2004, she backpacked through Southern Mexico and Guatemala to explore the Mayan Ruins and learn about the Zapatista’s indigenous movement. There, she gained knowledge of their multilingual schools, sustainable agriculture, accessible water, and, over all, the power of collective impact.
B.A. in Elementary Education, University of Illinois at Chicago
MA, Educational Administration, School Leadership Principal
Concordia University -
Irma Salazar
5th-8th Grade Spanish Teacher
Irma Salazar
5th-8th Grade Spanish Teacher
- Where is your favorite place in the world?
- Mexican archeological sites
- What in nature inspires you?
- Oceans.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- Rooster
- What is your favorite method of transportation?
- My feet
As a product of Bilingual education in Chicago Public Schools, Irma has devoted her educational career to researching multicultural education. She strongly believes that every child deserves an opportunity for a fair and equal education and that it is the responsibility of every educator to embrace their students’ diversity while helping them develop a positive self-concept.
B.A. in Bilingual/Bicultural & Elementary Education, Northeastern Illinois University
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Ivan Sarabia
1st Grade Monolingual Teacher
Ivan Sarabia
1st Grade Monolingual Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Barcelona
- What in nature inspires you?
- Gardens and anywhere where we nurture and in turn nature takes care of us.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Japan!
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I really love the attention to detail about everyones place in the world.
Ivan Sarabia comes from El Paso, Texas and went to University in Austin. Ivan lived in Austin for 11 years, in Seoul, South Korea, for one year, and in Madrid, Spain, for two years. Ivan is new to Chicago, and the Midwest. Ivan loves anything food related, and enjoys riding his bike and playing board games.
B.A., University of Texas at Austin
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Bryan Soto
Health and Wellness Teacher
Bryan Soto
Health and Wellness Teacher
- What in nature inspires you?
- The ability for life to thrive almost everywhere, even against all odds.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Guatemala.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Pigmy goats!
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the staff that I work with and the energy they bring to the school everyday!
Bryan Soto born in Mexico City and raised on the south side of Chicago in the Little Village neighborhood. A product of Whitney Young H.S., Bryan attended the University of Missouri for one year but ultimately went on to graduate from The University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign with a Bachelor of Science degree in Community Health as well as an Urban Planning minor. After a couple of years as a part of the Cicero public school district, Bryan was fortunate enough to find out about AGC. It wasn’t long before Bryan fell in love with everything about it. This will be Bryan’s 3rd year as part of the AGC family and he could not be happier.
B.S., University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana
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Trey Thompson
5th Grade Teacher
Trey Thompson
5th Grade Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- A quiet place with friends where I can see the stars.
- What in nature inspires you?
- I love to be in nature. I feel most alive when I am surrounded by trees, or getting my hands dirty in my garden.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- I would love to return to Spain.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The culture of this community is infectious and exciting to be a part of.
I grew up in Kansas and Colorado. I attended Kansas State University where I met my wife. After teaching in KS for a year we chose to travel. Over the next 2 years we visited or lived in 11 different countries. Since returning to live stateside I have worked for a STEM program as well as taught on both the West and South sides of Chicago. I feel fortunate to have landed at AGC and to be involved with the work of this community.
B.S. in Elementary Education, Kansas State University
M.Ed in Urban Education, National Louis University
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Helma Wardenaar
Founding Teacher and Case Manager of Diverse Learners
Helma Wardenaar
Founding Teacher and Case Manager of Diverse Learners
- What is your favorite local food?
- I love fresh mint from the AGC garden; a cup of fresh mint tea makes me smile!
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Galapagos Islands
- What do you love about AGC?
- I love that we are a cohesive community that inspires children and adults to make a positive change in the world.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- I would love to have a horse on the farm because horses can teach us a lot about relationships and care taking.
Creative. Dedicated. Enthusiastic. Helma has been called to these things since she was a child. Before moving to the United States, Helma taught multiple grades with great enthusiasm in the Netherlands. She speaks fluent English and Dutch, and conversational Spanish, German and French. Helma is proud to be a founding Teacher and Case Manager at AGC. She takes care of all students with Diverse Learning needs K-8. She loves facilitating all children in developing their minds to reach their highest personal goals, and strives to collaborate with parents, teachers, and clinicians to provide the least restrictive learning environment. Helma teaches through sensory integration and creativity, in other words: Helma thinks outside the box as most of her students require a different approach to learning. She inspires others to go above and beyond.
M.S. in Special Education from DePaul University;Endorsements in Math, Science, and Social studies
B.S. in Elementary Education from IPABO University of Amsterdam (the Netherlands), major in Early Childhood, Endorsements in Social studies, Math, Fine Arts, Music and PE
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Danny Wright
Maintenance Manager
Danny Wright
Maintenance Manager
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- Be true to thyself.
- What in nature inspires you?
- An eagle in flight.
- What do you love about AGC?
- The look on our students' faces in the morning.
- I wish that I could get everyone in the world to...
- Live in peace.
Danny Wright is responsible for keeping our school and grounds environmentally safe and clean for our students, chickens and planet. He enjoys his position at the Academy for Global Citizenship and watching our students with their endless energy and global awareness. Mr. Danny also teaches one of the most popular after-school programs called “Cool Tools”.
Harrison High School
Moraine Valley Jr. College