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Amy Liszt
President and Executive Director
Amy Liszt
President and Executive Director
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- The fjords of Norway
- What in nature inspires you?
- 30,000 foot mountain peaks
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Indonesia
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The students' enthusiasm for learning, commitment to social justice and dedication to protecting the planet.
Throughout her education and career, Amy has sought opportunities to improve educational outcomes for vulnerable and underserved students. Most recently, Amy served as the Director of Strategic Engagement at the University of Chicago Urban Education Institute’s UChicago Impact. Prior to moving to Chicago in 2012, Amy led both statewide and citywide reform efforts at the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the New York City Department of Education. Amy has also coached to school leaders throughout New York City, served as a founder of a charter school in the South Bronx, NY and taught special education.
Ed.D., Teachers College Columbia University,
M.Ed., Bank Street College of Education,
MSW, Columbia University,
B.A., University of Michigan -
Jennifer Moore
Principal
Jennifer Moore
Principal
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "What we need are more people who specialize in the impossible." -Theodore Roethke
- What in nature inspires you?
- Brilliant sunshine and ocean waves.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- South Africa.
- What is your favorite method of transportation?
- Flying
Jenn’s dedication to understanding others is matched by her desire to learn about other cultures. In other words, Jenn loves to travel, meet new people, and have new experiences. Along the way she has visited schools all over the world, worked with educators and students, shepherded leatherback turtle eggs into new nests, earned her National Board Teaching Certification in Literacy, and researched Macaque monkeys in their natural habitat. She lived in Cali, Colombia teaching first grade and just loved it. She has worked as a teacher, coach, and administrator. Jenn is a lifelong learner and enjoys the challenge of teaching.
Ed.D. in Organization Change, Pepperdine University
M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, DePaul University
M.Ed. in Urban Education Reform, Lesley College
B.A. in Early Childhood Education and Family Studies
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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 Prairie Fruits Farm chèvre.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Madagascar, Montenegro & Myanmar
- 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 80 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
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Maria Antunez
Instructional Interventionist
Maria Antunez
Instructional Interventionist
- What do you love about AGC.
- I love that everyone gets along, it makes me feel like I am with my family; the closeness, warmth, friendships, it's great to work closely with everyone and it feels like a great big family.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- I love Chicago because we have all kinds of weather .
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- I would like to visit Peru, because I love their food.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- A pig.
Maria is a person who loves to be around children. She has two girls and a boy. Maria’s family inspires her to keep going no matter what, to fight for her dreams and accomplish everything she can. Our children are our future so we must empower them with knowledge and guide them through success.
Associates Degree in Liberal Arts & Science with a Concentration in Child Development
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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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Evelyn (Tita) Bazaldua
Volunteer
Evelyn (Tita) Bazaldua
Volunteer
- Your motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- Where there's a will, there's a way.
- What in nature inspires you?
- The sun rising.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Africa
- I can't imagine my life without...
- Children; their ideas are so real and new.
Evelyn is a mother of two, grandmother of four, wife of 30 years, sister to six siblings, and a Tita to so many. At the young age of eight, she learned to crochet, and to this day, she enjoys sharing what her grandmother taught her with her loved ones. Evelyn has lived in many places throughout her life, including: Charleston, SC, Long Beach, CA, Mexico, and Memphis, TN; in each place she left a little piece of herself. She is proud to say her own mother always gave a helping hand to others and that she passed this down to Evelyn, too.
Farragut High School
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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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Kendra Bostick
School Social Worker
Kendra Bostick
School Social Worker
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- My favorite place in the world is when I'm outside. I love being in nature, even if it is just on a porch!
- What in nature inspires you?
- I am inspired by how a sunset can make any environment magical, be it the oceanside or an alley.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- I would love to visit the salt flats of Bolivia.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the care that is given to the whole child, including their social-emotional health, family ties, and ensuring a sense of belonging within the community.
Kendra Bostick is a passionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker who grew up on the Manistee River in northern Michigan and attended the University of Michigan for undergraduate and graduate school. Kendra moved to Chicago in 2010 and gained experience within inpatient child and adolescent behavioral health units, followed by five years of practice in school social work experience. Kendra is bilingual in Spanish and English and has immersed herself in many global endeavors including working in a therapeutic day center in London, teaching English in Thailand and coordinating mental health workshops in Ecuador. Kendra is currently obtaining her second Masters degree with a focus on how to use Adventure Programming and Experiential Education to improve children’s self-awareness, self-management and ability to contribute in a positive way to their community.
B.A. Psychology, University of Michigan; M.A., Social Work, University of Michigan, ME.PD., University of Wisconsin – La Crosse
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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 my 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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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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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
B.A., International Relations, American University
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Maria Correa
Office Clerk, AGC Community Council Member
Maria Correa
Office Clerk, AGC Community Council Member
- 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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Lia Czarnik
Spanish and Art Teacher, 3rd-5th Grades
Lia Czarnik
Spanish and Art Teacher, 3rd-5th Grades
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Family get-togethers.
- What in nature inspires you?
- The sunset.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Costa Rica and Puerto Rico.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The humanity.
“Hola y Hello!” Some of Lia’s favorite things are dark chocolate, latin dancing, the color pink, and singing in the car. She studied Bilingual Education and was a 5th grade teacher for a few years. Lia Czarnik grew up speaking both Spanish and English. While living in France for 3 years, she learned the importance of language, education, culture and communication. She is really looking forward to her second year at AGC!
BA, Elementary Education with Bilingual Certification, Illinois State University
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Diletta Dang
Middle School Math Teacher
Diletta Dang
Middle School Math Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- The Sonoran Desert
- What in nature inspires you?
- Feeling so small, yet so connected.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Capybaras!
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The love, energy, and commitment to social justice.
Diletta grew up in Tucson, Arizona, the child of Vietnamese and Chilean immigrants who instilled in her a sense of justice and the importance of education at a young age. She has worked with youth in various capacities, including as an Outreach Coordinator, NASA intern, and Educator. She worked as a First Grade Teacher in Tucson and moved to Chicago to earn her Masters in Education from the University of Chicago. She is a dedicated South West Side resident and lover of mathematics. She looks forward exploring the many ways in which math makes us better human beings.
M.A.T., Elementary Education, University of Chicago
B.A., History and Classics, University of Arizona.
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Jacob Deems
Middle School Language and Literacy Teacher
Jacob Deems
Middle School Language and Literacy Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- At home with my family - wherever that happens to be.
- What in nature inspires you?
- I find trees inspirational, both the height and the depth of them.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- I would like to visit Alaska by boat or by train.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the family vibe that exists at AGC. It is such a closely knit community and I'm excited to be a part of it.
Jacob Deems believes that education is a public service and he is committed to the achievement and learning of each student at AGC. His background is in English writing and history. Jacob has been in education for the past ten years in a wide range of capacities. He aspires to be a servant in all that he does.
PhD University of Minnesota (in progress),
MA National-Louis University;
B.A. North Central College.
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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
Instructional Interventionist
Sandra Enriquez
Instructional Interventionist
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Stephanie Epperson
1st Grade Teacher
Stephanie Epperson
1st Grade Teacher
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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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Kyle Fiorelli
Paraprofessional
Kyle Fiorelli
Paraprofessional
- What in nature inspires you?
- Everything. Nature reminds me how much bigger the world is than I and drives me to do what I can to care for it.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Watervale Inn in Arcadia, MI
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Germany
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the garden and the chickens the most, but overall I love how green the school is.
Kyle Fiorelli is a paraprofessional working 1:1 with an Elementary schooler at AGC. In her spare time, Kyle is very involved in theater and loves to read.
B.A., Augustana College,
Masters’ Degree in Progress
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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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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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Brent Grihalva
Instructional Interventionist
Brent Grihalva
Instructional Interventionist
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Connemara, Ireland.
- What in nature inspires you?
- I'm moved by nature's ability to ground me and to rock my perspective about our world; the sheer size of redwoods, the magic of fungi, and the stories in the land.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Ecuador.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I'm charged by the energy, enthusiasm, and culture that AGC staff, parents, and students have created here. The mosaic on the walls at the Annex are a treat to sit next to and relax!
Brent is a creative educator who uses theatre as a vehicle to facilitate fun discovery and engaged learning. He’s looking forward to applying his experience and skills in theater into the classroom! Brent is thrilled to commit to fostering new community relationships and building bridges between the communities he’s encountered on his travels in the past and the new communities he’ll contribute to. He’s a proud Milwaukee native, whose mind was expanded at the University of Minneapolis, and whose heart continues to beat to an Irish jig with his wife Siobhan.
University Minnesota, Art as Social Practice
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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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Lindsey Hagen
Middle School Science Teacher
Lindsey Hagen
Middle School Science Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, Africa.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Seeing stars and thinking about how big and small the world is.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Indonesia to see orangutans or Australia to experience a new continent
- What do you love most about AGC?
- Our commitment to sustainability and helping to make the world a better place to live.
Before coming to AGC, Lindsey Hagen taught science for 7 years in Cicero, IL. She is excited to incorporate sustainability and environmental education into her classroom. In her free time, Lindsey loves to spend time with family, travel, read, eat, and explore new places and activities. Linsey is a huge fan of anything Harry Potter and loves to re-read the books!
B.S. in Elementary Education with focuses in middle school science and social studies, Loyola University Chicago
Masters of Arts in Zoology, Miami University
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Veronica Jones
School Support
Veronica Jones
School Support
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Wherever my grandkids are.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Madison, Wisconsin.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Zebra
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love everything about AGC. The people get along. I love the principal, she is really cool.
I grew up in Chicago and I enjoy working with kids. I started working in Hearst Elementary School with my kids when they were young. I volunteered in the lunchroom. The principal loved me because I came to all the meetings they had at the school. I don’t talk that much, I’m a quiet person.
Kelly High School
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Jesse Iniguez
AGC Community Council Member
Jesse Iniguez
AGC Community Council Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- What drew me to AGC was the uniqueness of the school. It checks all the boxes of what I was looking for in a school for my daughter: 1) Its emphasis on being a global citizen 2) Its dual language program 3) IB program 4) Organic breakfast and lunch 5) the emphasis on sustainability. They even grow their own vegetables and raise chickens and involve the students in the process.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- Cedahlia's first day of school at AGC was my first favorite AGC memory. Seeing the delight in her eyes and excitement to meet her teachers and new classmates was uplifting. Knowing that we were putting her in a safe and holistic learning environment eased any of our fears. Seeing her come home everyday learning new things like audaz, are also memorable.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Chicago, of course!
- Where would you like to visit next?
- Figi.
Jesse Iñiguez is a Grassroots Manager at Elemento L2, overseeing multicultural field operations for the Illinois Health Insurance Marketplace account. His objective is to work with the state of Illinois and granted organizations to ensure that campaign messaging resonates with consumers from various cultures and that enrollments are maximized in multicultural communities throughout the state. Prior to working at Elemento, Jesse helped create the Community Relations department for the City Colleges of Chicago, where he worked for two years. In addition to working at Elemento, Jesse is also an entrepreneur and founder of No Manches Clothing Co. He is experienced working in bilingual and bicultural settings and is very active in his community, having served on various boards, most notably the United Southwest Chamber of Commerce and the Peace and Education Coalition.
B.A. in Psychology and Latin American and Latino Studies, University of Illinois at Chicago
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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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Jordan Lanfair
5th Grade Teacher
Jordan Lanfair
5th Grade Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- What in nature inspires you?
- Nature always seeks to return to balance, I admire this infinitely
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Three Billy Goats Gruff.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- We give all students the education and love they and their families deserve.
Jordan grew up on the south side of Chicago with his mother. She pushed him to be as good as he could possibly be, which resulted in his admission to Knox College. He graduated with honors and was able to complete multiple research projects and explore how to best serve diverse student populations. Jordan has taught on the Navajo reservation in Arizona, small town Illinois, his hometown Chicago and in Abu Dhabi. He is overjoyed to be sharing his talents with AGC this year and looks forward to introducing his students and their families to his first child this coming November! Jordan spends much of his free time running, playing with his dog, bothering his wife Ashley or relaxing with a good book.
M.Ed, Educational Leadership, Concordia University,
B.A., Elementary Education and Language, Pedagogy and Culture, Knox College,
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Patrick Katovich
Community Council Co-President
Patrick Katovich
Community Council Co-President
- What drew you to AGC?
- Chickens.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- Our initial walk through before we registered for the lottery was breathtaking. I remember turning to my wife and said "This is like one of those schools you see on '60 Minutes.'"
- What initiatives have you been involved with at AGC?
- AGC Community Council.
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Ben Kovler
Board Member
Ben Kovler
Board Member
Chief Investment Officer, Kovpac Investment Manager, Kovler Foundation
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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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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Josh Marder
Business Manager
Josh Marder
Business Manager
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- The Grand Canyon.
- Where would you like to visit next?
- Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- A goat, wouldn't that be awesome?
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The enthusiasm of the students, parents, teachers and staff that make AGC an inspiring place to work every day.
Josh is outgoing, enthusiastic and wants to help people, which led him to AGC. After working in the business world, Josh was excited to translate his skills to a sustainable, environmentally friendly organization. Josh’s parents grew up on the city’s Southwest Side and, as a lifelong Chicagoan, he feels it’s important to give back to the city you love. Josh is also passionate about the environment and realizes that future generations will need to be prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. The young minds of today will be the future leaders of tomorrow, and Josh is proud to help with AGC’s development.
B.A., English, Illinois Wesleyan University;
M.S., Environmental Management & Sustainability, Illinois Institute of Technology
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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 ACG’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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Maria Meza
Instructional Interventionist
Maria Meza
Instructional Interventionist
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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,370 American College of Education
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Vanessa Mizel
5th-7th Wellness Teacher
Vanessa Mizel
5th-7th Wellness Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Chicago's lakefront bike path.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Spring, it is a great reminder of fresh life and new beginnings.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Unicorns, but I could settle for an alpaca or two.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the community aspect that is brought into the school. There is a sense of pride and family here that I am so excited to be a part of
Before joining the team at AGC, Vanessa worked at Girls in the Game. There, she taught girls all around Chicago the value of sports, health and leadership. Through Vanessa’s involvement in leading and managing various programs, she has seen the benefits of getting children excited to lead active and healthy lives. In addition to leading sports programming, Vanessa has been a lifelong athlete and is excited to share her passion for all sports with the students at AGC.
B.A., Communications and Media, DePaul University
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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 4th 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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Jessica Neely
K-2 Wellness Teacher
Jessica Neely
K-2 Wellness Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Costa Rica.
- What in nature inspires you?
- The calmness of the sea.
- Where would you like to visit next?
- Hawaii.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- AGC promotes staff and family unity, diversity and I love the sharing of experiences and cultures.
Jessica Neely fell in love with physical activity as a 7-year-old cheerleader flying in the air. She has tumbled with The Jesse White Tumblers, counseled children at summer camps and so much more. Teaching at-risk youth in Cincinnati Ohio humbled Jessica and led her to AGC where teaching and promoting good health has been most rewarding.
Multi-age Education, Central State University
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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 has served on the board of AGC for the past five years.
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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Anna Phillips
5th Grade Teacher
Anna Phillips
5th Grade Teacher
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the amazing possibilities we are creating with our students and families by pushing the boundaries of what education can be and can mean. I love that there is no limitation to those possibilities, and watching our kids take action to bring each possibility into reality.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Being from Minnesota, I feel I have to be near water at all times. One of my favorite things to do is just walk-- anywhere-- the rocky coast of Grand Marais, up and down the lake shore path in Chicago, all over the beach in Punta Cana, DR...I get my best ideas and inspiration from walking by the water.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Sweden, Malaysia, Chile, Cuba...the list goes on...
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- A goat!
I grew up in a very small town in North central Minnesota with my parents and younger brother Ethan. I earned a full scholarship to Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin where I studied Communications, Digital Media, and Sociology. Upon graduation I was admitted into the Teach For America program as a 2008 charter corps member in Kansas City, Missouri Public Schools. While in Kansas City I taught third grade and followed my students the next year to fourth grade. The following year I moved to Chicago to teach third grade at AGC, then returned to Kansas City the following year to teach at University Academy Charter School, and finally returned again to Chicago where I have been teaching since. I am so excited to be back in the AGC family and teaching fifth grade! My husband Mark, our two Boston Terriers Oscar and Felix, and I are also very excited for him to complete his Masters in Special Education this year at Loyola University. We spend our free time with our puppies at the dog beach, walking all over the city, and eating lots of food!
B.A. in Communications and Sociology, Carthage College
Masters of Education, University of St. Louis
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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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Molly Sammon
Special Education Teacher
Molly Sammon
Special Education Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- The Indiana Dunes - I love how the park changes every season, but is always beautiful.
- What in nature inspires you?
- The way people collectively adapt to change
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- South Africa - I want to cage dive with great whites.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The kids I've met so far!
I grew up in Northwest Indiana (not too far from AGC) and graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 2012 with a degree in anthropology and journalism. I studied abroad in Perth, Australia and got lots of time to travel. I then became a special education teacher through an alternative teaching program and taught on the city’s south side for three years. A Masters degree in special education eventually came my way. I like to read newspapers and watch college football with my friends.
BA in Anthropology and Journalism, University of Notre Dame
M.Ed in Special Education at National-Louis University
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Laura Sherman
Kindergarten Teacher
Laura Sherman
Kindergarten Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- A Great Lake's shore.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Trees! They are among the oldest living things on earth. I think trees are beautiful in all seasons and I enjoy learning about the many different species.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Japan and the top of a Redwood Giant.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- An American bison, an alligator, and a peacock!
Laura Sherman grew up in the beautiful state of Michigan. After graduating from Michigan State University, she taught in underserved communities on the south side of Chicago and in Detroit. Here at AGC, Laura has finally found my dream job. She is thrilled to join the movement toward a more sustainable future through the portal of education. Outside of school, Laura loves being in nature, riding my bike, swimming, hiking, and sailing. She loves learning about trees and collecting leaf samples for her herbarium. Laura plays many instruments and enjoys writing music. She want to continue to travel the world and meet new people.
B.A. in Elementary Education, Michigan State University
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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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Lara Stachler
Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist
Lara Stachler
Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- The beach in Tulum, MX. (Not the one at the ruins, much further south!)
- What in nature inspires you?
- I love sunshine, clear water, fresh air and the sound of wind in the leaves.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- South America.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the friendly, open-minded, supportive, bilingual environment! And the chickens.
Lara grew up in southeast Michigan but thought Chicago sounded like a fun idea after graduation, so here she is! Laura has traveled to Canada, France, Spain, Mexico, Costa Rica and has studied abroad in Guanajuato, MX. She loves meeting new people, getting to know new places, accepting new challenges and learning everything she can while she is on this planet!
M.S. Speech-Language Pathology, Saint Xavier University
B.H.S Communication Disorders, Governors State University
B.A. Spanish, University of Michigan
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Jessica Sicsu
Jessica Sicsu
Partner, Kirkland and Ellis, LLP
University of Illinois College of Law, J.D., 2002
University of Illinois College of Law, LL.M., 1998
Universidad Catolica Andres Bello, Caracas, Venezuela, Abogado (Attorney), 1996
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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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Rishi Shah
Board Member, Development Committee Member
Rishi Shah
Board Member, Development Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- Visiting the AGC in session and meeting Sarah Elizabeth instantly drew me to the school. I've always had an interest in education and the philosophy with which AGC is run crystallized so many of my core beliefs about how children should be taught.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- When I first visited AGC, we toured the school and then sat down in the cafeteria. Half way through our lunch the bell rang and kids filled the room -- second graders came and sat right next to us and I'll never forget how energetic, confident, comfortable, and yet calm they were. When Sarah Elizabeth asked them why they were eating what they were eating (vegetables), they knew exactly why.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- I just returned from a trip to Paris and enjoyed every bit of it, it might be my favorite city in the world aside from Chicago, of course.
- Where would you like to visit next?
- Some of my entrepreneur friends are building companies focused on space travel. While it won't be next, I would like to get to space one day soon!
Rishi Shah, CEO and Founder of ContextMedia, is a successful media and technology entrepreneur. Rishi has been an entrepreneur since birth, starting a home computer consulting company when he was 12, and later selling it to a large electronics retailer. Rishi started ContextMedia in 2006 to help patients with chronic diseases live healthier through contextually relevant media services. Rishi advises several early stage companies and serves on the Board of Directors of many organizations. Rishi was recognized by Crain’s as a member of their 40-Under-40 class in 2009 and he has founded several non-profit initiatives.
Founder and CEO, ContextMedia
Northwestern University
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Nancy Villafranca
AGC Community Council Co-President
Nancy Villafranca
AGC Community Council Co-President
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- My favorite place in the world is currently my back yard during a fresh afternoon while watching my two children play and laugh.
- What in nature inspires you?
- I am inspired by the smell of wet earth after it rains and morning fresh grass. This smell reminds me of fresh starts and the potential for a great, new day. It reminds me of my parents and my roots in Mexico, where the sweet smell of the earth permeated my surroundings.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- I promised my son we would visit Paris in a few years and although I am afraid of flying, I am looking forward to that trip!
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love AGC because of the great people and families who work and interact there with the best of intentions to teach children and help them fulfill their potential beyond academics.
I am blessed to have dedicated the past 14 years to the field of education. As a parent of two AGC students, I feel extremely lucky to contribute to the amazing place that is helping educate my children.
B.S. in Education, DePaul University
M.Ed – University of Illinois at Chicago
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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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August Williams
Lunchroom Staff
August Williams
Lunchroom Staff
- What in nature inspires you?
- The wind.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Europe
- What do you love about AGC?
- The people.
- I can't imagine my life without...
- My son.
Born and raised in the North side of Chicago, August attended Holy Trinity High School before going on to play Division Three basketball at Blackburn University.
Blackburn University
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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
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Lois Wylen
Special Education Teacher Grades 3-5
Lois Wylen
Special Education Teacher Grades 3-5
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Promontory Point in Hyde Park with my family.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Flowers. They are the "proud assertion that a ray of beauty outvalues all the utilities of the world" according to Ralph Waldo Emerson
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Travel along the Mediterranean.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love that AGC is committed to a holistic approach to education, including the emotional and social well-being of a child. And, of course, Chef's pozole!
Lois is a Chicago southside native who has been teaching in the inner city charter schools for five years. Her favorite thing about being a special education teacher is helping kids understand their disabilities and empower them to self-advocate. She loves all things sci-fi and fantasy. Her new found hobby is swing dancing with her husband. Here are a few of her favorite things: her beautiful daughter, her dog, her vintage Schwinn bike, coffee, David Bowie, musicals, Kombucha, and ABBA.
M.Ed., Special Education, University of Chicago at Illinois
B.G.S., Human Development, North Park University