Stephanie Thill - 2nd Grade Teacher - 2014 - Chicago, IL - sathill@cps.edu

Lake Villa District 41 Middle School
Grayslake Community High School
Western Illinois University - Bachelor or Arts
National-Louis University - Master of Arts in Teaching

Originally I wanted to be an event planner, but after a year of working in an office I decided to go back to school to become a teacher.  This was the best decision ever!  I have taught Kindergarten, Fifth Grade, Second Grade and Third Grade on the west and south sides of Chicago.  I am currently teaching Second Grade here at Peterson.

"My favorite thing about Peterson is all of the support we offer to students, parents, and teachers. You never have worry because there is always someone there to help you!"

My favorite thing to do outside of Peterson is to spend time with my two nieces and try out different restaurants throughout the city of Chicago with my friends.


Sarah Lammie - 2nd Grade Teacher - 2013 - Chicago, IL - sjlammie@cps.edu

"I love how diverse my classroom is, and how every student loves to come to school and learn every day. My student's love of learning is exciting."

Mark Sheridan Academy (CPS)
Whitney Young High School (CPS)
Knox College in Galesburg, IL (BA in Education, minor in Theatre and Dance)
American College of Education (Masters in ESL Education)

I have taught kindergarten all around Chicago, from the far South side, to North. I am a classically trained ballerina, and have been dancing since I was a young girl. I teach dance classes and preform around the city to pass on my love of dance. I also teach public programs at the Field Museum because I love science and history. 

I love to take and teach dance classes, bake, and to go see shows with my husband. I also like to take my dog, Lando, for walks. 


Jennifer Barnes - 2nd Grade Diverse Learner Specialist Teacher - 2005 - Michigan - jdbarnes2@cps.edu

Pinecrest Elementary School
Hannah Middle School
East Lansing High School
Northern Michigan University
DePaul University

"The diversity and that it's a very welcoming place."

I was a network administrator for a non-profit organization.  After work, I would volunteer as a tutor.  After tutoring for a couple years I decided to attend grad school to become a special education teacher.

I enjoy reading, beading, traveling, spending time with my family and playing tennis.


Jamie Rivas - 2nd Grade Teacher - 2006 - Anchorage, AK / Swanzey, NH - jlpage@cps.edu

Monadnock Regional Jr./Sr. High School
Keene State College - Undergraduate
American College of Education - Masters Degree

I taught 2nd in Kissimmee, FL before moving to Chicago. I attended a job fair with the hopes of finding Peterson in attendance. I was first hired at Peterson to fill a maternity leave and then took my first classroom in 2007.

"My favorite thing about Peterson is the dedicated and supportive families we have here!"

I love to bake with my 3 year old sous chef, Addison!


Kiran Ionita - 2nd Grade Teacher- 2018 - Pakistan - ksionita@cps.edu

University of Illinois at Chicago - Master of Education in ELMSA
Benedictine University - Master of Education in Reading and Literacy
Loyola University - Bachelor of Science in Education with Endorsement in Social Science

Growing up as a first generation immigrant from Pakistan in and around the Chicagoland area gave me a unique perspective on multiculturalism. My passion for teaching arose from my own struggles of being a child who was a non-native English speaker and the difference teachers made in my life. My hope is to use my skills and abilities to make a meaningful impact in the lives of the students and families at Peterson.

"The diversity among the student body combined with the passion and dedication brought by the staff make Peterson a truly special place."

I enjoy spending time with my husband and two daughters, watching Bollywood musicals, working out, cooking, and taking walking tours in foreign countries which in my experience is the best way to learn about new cities.


Barbara Salatin - 2nd Grade Diverse Learner Classroom Assistant - 2019 - Italy - bsalatin@gmail.com

Foreign Languages Gymnasium Italy
Foreign and Commercial Languages Venice, Italy

I worked at my children’s school for 4 years as a parent worker until last year a SECA position opened at Peterson and decided to apply. I’ve been here happily ever after!

“My favorite thing about Peterson is the diversity of the students and staff and the great support and collaboration from admin and colleagues.”

I love to travel, the beach, shopping for shoes and mostly spending time with my family and friends.


Megan Stalder - 2nd Grade Diverse Learner Classroom Assistant - 2020 - Chicago, IL - mstalder1@cps.edu

St. Walters School, Chicago
Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School, Chicago

Illinois Institute of Technology Chicago - BA Industrial Management

I volunteered at my kids school for many years, so when I decided to go back to work, working in a school seemed perfect. Peterson gave me the opportunity to work with many different grades and levels, no day is ever the same!

“Peterson has wonderful students that are inquisitive, caring and friendly! The faculty and staff are very supportive.”

I love to spend time with my family, go outside as much as possible and eat!