Hello! My name is Ms. Alice, and I am an experienced educator passionate about helping students grow academically and personally. I teach eighth-grade ELA and math and co-teach social studies in general education. With a background spanning grades four through eight, I have worked in various roles, from classroom teacher to school leader, always striving to create an engaging and supportive learning environment.

My journey in education began in 2011 when I transitioned into teaching after earning a master of arts in teaching with an endorsement in social sciences. I started as a fifth-grade ELA teacher before moving into social studies instruction at a CPS turnaround school. After taking time to be a stay-at-home mom, I returned to teaching, pursuing my learning behavior specialist 1 (LBS1) endorsement and focusing on special education. Over the years, I have worked in various school settings, including charter schools, where I have led multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) interventions, coached teachers, and developed literacy-focused instruction. My work has always centered on ensuring students receive the individualized support they need to thrive.

One of my proudest educational accomplishments has been helping students grow between two to six grade levels in reading under my instruction. While I have never sought formal recognition, I take great pride in knowing that some of the best educators I’ve worked with have told me they’ve learned from me. My greatest joy is building relationships with students and helping them see their potential. Many of my students stay in touch, and I’ve even had the privilege of seeing one of my former scholars become a teacher—crediting my influence as part of her journey.

I take a joyful, strengths-based approach to learning, ensuring that each student feels valued, encouraged, and motivated. I love to gamify challenging concepts and incorporate social-emotional learning (SEL) into my teaching. Many of my students affectionately refer to me as “mom” or “auntie,” which speaks to the safe and supportive environment I strive to create in my classroom.

Beyond teaching, I love traveling, hiking, and spending time with my family. My son and I share a love of history, often quizzing each other on geography and historical events. Travel has been a big part of our lives—he has visited ten countries for his tenth birthday, and I have had the privilege of visiting nearly thirty countries. I was born in Zambia and raised in Wisconsin, and I have worked with students from various backgrounds, which has shaped my culturally responsive approach to education.

One of my guiding quotes comes from Nelson Mandela: "Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world."Learning should empower students, foster confidence, and inspire curiosity.

I am excited to continue impacting and helping students reach their fullest potential.