3rd Grade

Sara Skaggs - 3rd Grade Teacher - 2006 - Vernon Hills, Illinois - slskaggs@cps.edu

Hawthorn Elementary School in Vernon Hills, Illinois
Libertyville High School in Libertyville, Illinois
Purdue University, Bachelors
DePaul University, masters of education

Before Peterson, I taught at a few other Chicago Public Schools.

I love to spend time with family and friends.

"The diversity!", is my favorite thing about Peterson.

Rachel Mendes - 3rd Grade Teacher - 2017 - Chicago, IL - rmendes@cps.edu

Oriole Park Elementary School
William Howard Taft High School
Northern Illinois University
Northeastern IL University

Once I graduated college I decided I wanted to travel and teach in another country. I worked as a summer nanny in Italy and while there I applied to teach at an International School in Milan. Once I received the job I packed up my life and moved. I decided to move back to Chicago June of 2017. A week after I moved back I had an interview at Peterson. I really enjoyed the positive atmosphere I couldn't be happier to be here.

"Coming from an International school I really loved the sense of diversity! The staff is very friendly and always willing to help."

Outside of Peterson I like to try new restaurants with my family. I also love to read and travel to new places.

Maureen Lowrance - 3rd Grade Diverse Learner Specialist Teacher - 2008 - Chicago, IL - mkirkpatrick@cps.edu

St. Cornelius Elementary School, Chicago, IL
Regina Dominican High School, Wilmette, IL
Western Illinois University- Bachelor's in Business/Marketing
Northeastern Illinois University - Master's in Teaching Diverse Learners
Concordia University- Master's in School Leadership

I have been teaching in CPS since 2002.

I love exploring the city and traveling with my husband and kids.

"I love the pride in the diversity at Peterson!"

Catherine Jarvis - 3rd Grade Teacher - 2016 - Chicago, IL - cjarvis1@cps.edu

St. John's Lutheran School
Northside College Preparatory High School
Northeastern Illinois University

I student taught at Sauganash School and then worked as a Temporarily Assigned Teacher covering a 5th Grade LA and Social Studies maternity leave.

"The real sense of community from everyone in the school."

Outside of Peterson, I love to read and practice martial arts.

Megan Fair - 3rd Grade Teacher - 2018 - Butler, Pennsylvania - mefair1@cps.edu

Butler Catholic School - Butler, PA
Knoch High School - Butler, PA
University of Utah - Salt Lake City, UT
The University of Manchester - Manchester, United Kingdom
The University of Chicago - Chicago, IL

I started my teaching career in a Head Start classroom, and found that I was passionate about social justice and working towards quality education for ALL students. After five years with Head Start, I moved to Chicago to pursue my Masters at The University of Chicago's Urban Teacher Education Program. After graduation, I taught on the southside of Chicago before finding Peterson. Peterson's diverse and accepting community, support of the entire school community, and empowerment of students was what drew me to the school and what drives me each day in the classroom.

“That I get to see the world in my classroom everyday. The families, students, and staff of Peterson have welcomed me, openly sharing their stories, their lives, and their perspectives with me. It is beautiful to see and be a part of such diversity, such acceptance, and such openness in a community.”

Outside of school, I enjoy yoga, reading, cooking, spending time with friends and family, and exploring Chicago.

Ana Riano - 2nd Grade Diverse Learner Classroom Assistant - 2022 - Bogota, Colombia - acriano@cps.edu

Nicolas Esguerra High School "Colombia"
Technical Institute SENA/ Accounting Clerk
Northeastern Illinois University

I've always liked working with kids and when I was done with my Bachelor's Degree my goal was to find a job in education. I knew about Mary Gage Peterson Elementary School because my niece graduated here. She always appreciated all support that she got during her time at Peterson. With a strong elementary school foundation, my niece was able to accomplish many academic milestones. She become one of the first in our family to graduate college today is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. Now I have the opportunity to give back to the community for what they did for her. My goal is to do my best on the job and grow alongside my peer to achieve academic success for the students.

My favorite thing about Peterson is the diversity. People with different customs, thoughts, and goals make a difference in he community. Diversity is at the backbone of providing a well-rounded experience for our kids and in turn, ensures we have a community filed with understanding.

My favorite thing to do outside of Peterson is to spend time with my family. However, I specially enjoy crocheting with my mother who is 90 years old. she motivates me to continue doing my work and follow my aspirations. I have lots of fun crocheting with her and spending time with all my family during the weekends.