Our Faculty

Experienced and enthusiastic instructors encourage and support student success.

CICS Northtown has a talented and dedicated faculty team that believes in the hope and promise of educating young people.

CICS Northtown believes that open communication between teachers and parents is essential to the development, achievement and well being of students. We encourage you to call or email teachers to check on the progress of your students inside and outside of the classroom.

Below you will find a complete list of our current faculty and staff. To reach a staff member via phone, please call the school campus at 773.478.3655 and dial the listed extension when prompted.

 Mr. Andrew Reuland, Campus Director

• B.A. University of Notre Dame
• M.Ed Northwestern University
• M.A. Loyola University

Mr. Andrew Reuland is entering his first year as campus director. Prior to working in administration, Mr. Reuland taught mathematics for 10 years in the Chicago area. He has taught classes at St. Rita High School, The Chicago Academy for the Arts, Fenwick High School, Triton College and Northwestern University. He has taught advanced placement courses for seven years and was selected twice to be a reader for the AP exams. His work in graduate school has focused on teaching methods, teacher supervision, and improving assessments. After three years as a St. Rita Mustang and four years as a Fenwick Friar, Mr. Reuland is very excited to call himself a Puma and work with all the people who invest their time and talent into CICS Northtown Academy.

Elicia Bennett, Associate Director of Curriculum and Instruction 

• B.S. University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign
• M.Ed. Loyola University Chicago

Ms. Elicia Bennett is excited to be a new member of the leadership team at CICS Northtown Academy.  She is currently working to earn her doctorate in curriculum and instruction at Loyola University Chicago with a research focus on culturally relevant curriculum and instruction. Elicia holds a B.S. in Psychology and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction.

Prior to joining Northtown, Elicia has worked as an instructional leader, English teacher, reading teacher, researcher, and an instructional interventionist working with at risk students and their families.  In addition to her work in education she enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, and reading.

Jeremy Burnham, Associate Director of Operations 

• B.A. University of Georgia
• M.I.T Seattle University
• Type 75 Loyola University of Chicago

Mr. Jeremy Burnham is excited to join the Civitas community at Northtown Academy. He is currently working on a doctorate in school administration at Loyola University of Chicago. He holds a Bachelor degree in Speech Communications from the University of Georgia, a Master in Teaching from Seattle University, a Post-Baccalaureate in Teaching English to Second Language Learners and he holds a Type 75 Administration Certification from Loyola University of Chicago.

Prior to working at Civitas he was the ELL Coordinator for Proviso Township High School District 209 and Dean of Students for Perspectives IIT/Math and Science Academy. He was also a founding teacher at both Perspectives Calumet High and Perspectives High School of Technology. Mr. Burnham is looking forward to working with the amazing staff, students and community of Northtown.

Christina Bargielowski, Special Education Aide 

 

Jennifer Bender, Science Teacher

• B.A. University of North Carolina Chapel Hill 

Jen Bender completed her undergraduate studies in biology, psychology, and chemistry at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  She is very excited to be teaching biology at Northtown again this year!  When she is not teaching, she loves reading, running, traveling, and cheering on the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabres, and North Carolina Tar Heels!

Heather Bosman, Humanities and Writing Teacher 

• B.A. University of Illinois 
• M.Ed University of Illinois-Chicago

Heather Bosman is excited to bring her love of literature, writing, and politics into Northtown’s classrooms as a Humanities and Writing teacher. When not at Northtown planning lessons for her students, she enjoys reading, spending time with friends and family.

Ben Briskin, Science Teacher 

• B.A. Ohio State University 

Ben Briskin is a graduate of The Ohio State University and a 2011 Teach for America corps member. During college, he conducted cancer genetics research and studied abroad in Paris.  He enjoys playing Ultimate Frisbee, reading the New York Times, watching the Colbert Report, and cheering for the Buckeyes.

Anne Callaghan, English Teacher 

Siobhan Cantillon, Special Education Teacher 

• M.A. Saint Xavier University 
• B.A. Northern Illinois University 

Siobhan Cantillon earned her Bachelor’s degree in Education at Northern Illinois University.  In addition to this, Siobhan also earned her Master’s degree in Teacher Leadership, at Saint Xavier University. This is her eleventh year of teaching; however, it is her first year with us at Northtown Academy.  In her free time she enjoys listening to music, going on long walks with her dog and traveling to various states and countries around the world.

Shelby Cantor, Spanish Teacher

• B.A. Indiana University 
• M.A. National Louis-University

Shelby Cantor joined Northtown Academy after teaching at different schools in the Chicagoland area for three years. She is very excited to be part of Northtown Academy and is currently in charge of the Latin Dance Club.  This summer she had the wonderful opportunity to lead the Spain and France trip with Northtown students. Some of her interests include; traveling, learning new languages, dancing, singing, reading, and watching Chicago sports.  

Jill Carfagnini, Social Worker

• M.S.W. University of Illinois

Jill Carfagnini completed her master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois-Chicago and has been working at Northtown Academy for five years. Some of her interests include kayaking, camping, and spending time with family and friends.

Annie Chiado, English Team Lead 

 

Jeanine Cho, Mathematics Teacher 

• B.A. Mathematics Azusa Pacific University
• M.A. National Louis University

Jeanine Cho joined CICS Northtown in 2009 after graduating Azusa Pacific University where she earned a B.A. in Mathematics. She thoroughly enjoys watching her students grow as people and light up  as students with "ah-hah" moments. She also loves getting to know her students outside of the classroom and coaching the JV Girls Volleyball Team.

Aria Choi, English & Writing Teacher

• B.A. University of Illinois - Chicago

Aria Choi is a graduate of University of Illinois at Chicago where she earned her B.A. in Teaching of English.  She joined the teaching community at CICS Northtown Academy in 2007, where she also completed her student teaching. In addition to teaching English and writing courses, she also teaches psychology and sociology.  She lives to eat, travel, learn, and experience meaningful encounters with people of different cultures, all around the world. 

Robert Colville, Special Education Teacher

• M. Spec.Ed. National-Louis University

Robert Colville began his teaching career at Northtown and loves being a part of the school community.  Shortly after receiving his bachelor’s degree from The University of Arizona, he moved to Chicago and worked as a one-on-one aide. Aside from teaching, he is passionate about fly-fishing, reading, sports, and cooking. 

Kathryn Coughlin, Case Manager and Student Services Team Lead 

• M.A.T. Special Education
• B.A. Social Work

Kathryn Coughlin is entering her 7th year at Northtown and this year she is teaching a class called Discrete Math. Outside of Northtown she enjoys spending time outdoors and with her family.  

Grant Domenz, Humanities Resource Teacher 

• B.A. Western Illinois University  

Grant Domenz received his Bachelor of Arts with a major in History education from Western Illinois University. He is a native Chicagoan, who moved to California for three years after college to expand his teaching experience. He moved back to Chicago two years ago, and started as a special education aide at NTA.  Grant is an avid gardener and biker, you can usually find him outside in nature!

Christina Duran, Special Education Aide 

 

Patricia Fahy, English Teacher

• B.A. College of Holy Cross

Patricia Fahy is an alumna of College of Holy Cross in Worcester, MA, where she earned a B.A. in English Literature, National-Louis University, where she earned a Masters in the Art of Teaching, and Teach For America. She enjoys teaching English and Writing and working with students in World Cultures Committee, Cushman and Wakefield, and SES Tutoring. Her interests outside of school include running, reading, and practicing yoga.

Jovanna Feldman, Special Education Teacher

• B.S. University of Wisconsin-Madison
• M.A. Northeastern Illinois University

Jovanna Feldman received her B.A in Sociology from University of Wisconsin-Madison and her Master's in Learning Disabilities from Northeastern Illinois University.  Ms. Feldman is a Special Education teacher and the lead teacher for Pass With Flying Colors at Northtown Academy.  Outside of work, Ms. Feldman enjoys running, playing tennis, and reading. 

Angeliki Frigelis, English Teacher

• M.A. Northeastern Illinois University

Angeliki Frigelis is a graduate of Northeastern Illinois University where she completed her M.A. in Reading. While at Northeastern, she was a member of the Academic Honors Society. She is an avid reader who loves to travel.

Ryan Fuller, Social Studies Teacher

• B.A. History North Park University

Ryan Fuller is a Social Studies teacher at CICS Northtown Academy. He is a graduate of North Park University where he received his B.A. in History. He completed his student teaching at Northtown Academy and is happy to join our full time teaching staff. He and is an avid Chicago Cubs fan and loves spending time with his dog Wrigley.

Katherine Goulde, Math Teacher

• B.A. College of William and Mary

Katherine Goulde is currently working on a masters degree at National-Louis University. She is a recipient of the Americorps Educational Grant, and currently teaches Algebra 2 and Statistics.

Andrew Granchalek, Social Studies Teacher

• B.A. Beloit College

Andrew Granchalek is a social studies teacher at CICS Northtown Academy and began his teaching career at Warren Young High School. He received his BA in History/Education and is happy to join Northtown Academy as a full time teacher.

Jennifer Gross, College Counselor

• M. Ed. From DePaul University
• B.S. Indiana University-Bloomington

Ms. Gross is in her 3rd year as a counselor at Northtown Academy.  In addition to supporting the Northtown students in creating post-high school plans, she co-moderates the Students Against Destructive Decisions Club.  You can often find Ms. Gross rooting for the Chicago White Sox or all Indiana Hoosiers sports teams.  She enjoys cooking, playing flag football and spending time with her family and bulldog puppy.

Matt Hale, Special Education Teacher

• M.A.T. Northeastern Illinois University

Matt Hale has almost a decade of teaching experience. He has earned a B.A. in Psychology from Washington University and two master's degrees in school leadership and teaching.  For relaxation, he enjoys quality time with his wife and two kids. He also enjoys mixed martial arts and chess.

Brian Harris, Special Education Teacher

• M.A. DePaul University

Brian Harris has been teaching since 2006 and completed his undergraduate studies at Illinois State University in 1994. In 2004, he enrolled in the graduate program at DePaul University to become a Social Sciences and English teacher. He earned his Special Education endorsement from Roosevelt University.

Jennifer Henricks, Social Worker

• M.A. Washington University

Jennifer Henricks began her teaching career at Beaumont High School in the St. Louis Public School District. She received her B.A. in creative writing from DePauw University and her Master of Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis. She enjoys art and writing.

Jane Holper, Special Education Teacher

• M.A. University of Illinois – Chicago

Jane Holper is a special education teacher at Northtown Academy. She completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology at Loyola University. During her career, she has worked with students in preschool, elementary, and high school settings, as well as taught special education methods courses at Roosevelt University.  Ms. Holper is proud of the accomplishments of Northtown students, and is dedicated to helping students with disabilities achieve their educational goals.  

Matthew Howe, English Teacher

• B.A. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 
• M.A.T National Louis University

Matthew Howe is a Writing and Humanities Teacher at Northtown Academy.  Matthew obtained a B.A. in History and English from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a M.A.T. in teaching from National Louis University.  During his free time, Matthew enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters, fishing, hiking, reading, and writing. 

Daniel Jalkut, Math/Science Teacher

• B.A. Boston College 

Daniel Jalkut is pursuing his Masters at National Louis University with Special Education Concentration.  Daniel is a 2010 Teach for America corps member.  He enjoys rooting for Boston sports teams as well as playing soccer.

Elizabeth Jeans, Science Teacher

• B.S. Rhodes College 

Ms. Jeans was born in Reno, Nevada and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. She attended Rhodes College, where she received a B.S. in Chemistry with a focus in physical and computational chemistry. Ms. Jeans has spent time as a researcher: studying both cancer biology at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Mayo Clinic. Before coming to Northtown Academy, Ms. Jeans taught chemistry at Schurz High School. She is now happily teaching the Juniors Physics at Northtown.

Melissa Kaufman, Special Education Teacher 

• B.A. Central College 

Melissa Kaufman began her teaching career at Northtown after student teaching at the elementary level. Prior to teaching, Melissa completed her B.A. in Communications from Central College in Pella, IA and was working in the marketing field. Some of her interests include running, reading, spending time with friends and checking out new movies. During her undergraduate degree, she studied and lived in London, England and hopes to one day have more time to return and continue her love of traveling. 

Michael Kerns, English Teacher 

• B.A. University of Illinois – Chicago

Michael Kerns has been teaching since 2008 and received his teaching certification from National-Louis University.  His interests include horseback riding, foreign films, Wii golf and long Sundays on the couch watching football.

Jessica Kertz, Spanish Teacher

• M.A. International Relations (Europe) and Spanish from Bucknell University
• B.A. Bucknell University

Jess attended Bucknell University and taught at a bilingual high school in Sanlucar de Barrameda, Spain prior to joining the Northtown staff. Her professional interests include the Spanish cultural identity and 19th century Spanish literature.  

Meghan Kline, Math Teacher

• B.A. Concordia University

Jim Klise, Librarian

• M.A.University of Missouri-Columbia

Jim Klise has earned degrees from Bennington College, the University of Missouri-Columbia, and the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC.  Before joining CICS Northtown, Klise taught Writing at Columbia College in Chicago, as well as at the University of Missouri. Klise has written book reviews, marketing materials, speeches, press releases, travel brochures, annual reports, print advertising, monthly newsletters, and even short stories. His writing has appeared in the Chicago Sun-Times, Booklist, Story Quarterly, New Orleans Review to name a few. In addition to overseeing the library at Northtown Academy, he advises the Literary Journal, the Book Club, and the Gay-Straight Alliance.

Andrew Letrich, SPEd Teacher

• B.A. Northeastern Illinois University

Ann Lindstrom, Mathematics Teacher

• B.A. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Ann Lindstrom has taught Algebra at Northtown since 2006. Originally, she intended to become a guidance counselor, but after spending time in the classroom as part of the Secondary Education program, she discovered a passion for teaching. After completing her student teaching experience, she returned to school for her Mathematics endorsement. She is currently working on her Masters degree at North Park University and plans to one day earn a doctorate in education. 

Zoraida Martin, Social Studies Teacher

• B.A. DePaul University

Zoraida Martin graduated from DePaul University in 2005 with a B.A. in Secondary Education and a concentration in History. She enjoys teaching, mentoring, and coaching students of all ages. She will receive her Master's degree in Supervision and Administration from National-Louis University in 2010. 

Eileen McBride, Athletic Director and Wellness Team Lead

• M.S. DePaul University

Eileen McBride has been teaching for 24 years and is a founding member of the CICS Northtown Academy staff.  She completed her undergraduate degree and masters in Educational Administration from DePaul University.  Eileen was most recently the Athletic Director and Arts and Wellness department Chairperson at Good Counsel High School.  Her interests include reading, golf, volleyball, softball.

Kristen McChesney, Social Studies Team Lead

• B.A. Illinois State University 
• M.Ed. University of Illinois - Chicago 
• M.A. DePaul Univeristy

Kristen McChesney joined Northtown Academy after teaching  for 8 years at Thornton Fractional South High School. She also spent two years as a University Supervisor in the Department of History at Illinois State. 

Kristen loves to travel and her favorite place to visit is France. She is also passionate about photography. Her photographic work has been shown in various galleries around Chicago. However, her favorite thing in the world to do is hang out with her husband and two amazing kids. 

Josh McComas, Social Studies Teacher

• B.A. Northwestern University

Hailing from the Land of Enchantment, Josh spent four years at Northwestern University where he captained the NU Drumline and majored in History and education. He completed his student teaching at CICS Northtown Academy, and spends much of his time educating his students and co-workers about his New Mexico heritage. 

Scott McCormick, English Teacher

• B.A. Western Michigan University
• M.A. Northeastern Illinois University
• M.Ed. University of Illinois at Chicago

Prior to coming to Northtown Academy, Scott McCormick worked as a professional writer, ESL teacher, and adult educator.  He also taught high school English in Korea for two years and served in the U.S. Naval Reserve.   He has degrees in English, Linguistics, and English Education. When Scott is not in the classroom, he enjoys long-distance cycling, watching baseball and football, being outdoors, and spending time with family and friends.

Erin McQuinn, English and Writing Teacher 

• B.A. Marquette University

Erin McQuinn is a graduate of Marquette University where she earned her B.A. in English and Psychology. After graduating, she received her teacher certification from National Louis University.

Allison Meier, Social Studies Teacher

• B.A. DePaul University

Allison Meier completed her student teaching at CICS Northtown Academy and graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Secondary Education. She is a self-proclaimed expert chef and in her free time, she enjoys rooting for her favorite team, the Chicago White Sox.

David Melnick, Resource Teacher

 

Kristin Metzler, English Teacher

• B.A. Illinois State University

Kristin Metzler received her B.A. in English Education, began her teaching career at Joliet West High School. She enjoys vacations, reading, and spending time with friends and family.

Emily Mueller, Spanish Teacher

• M.A. DePaul University

Emily Mueller has been teaching Spanish since 2006 and earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin in Madison with a double major in Spanish and Theatre.  Prior to joining CICS Northtown Academy, Mueller lived in Mexico where she did administrative and translation work at a Spanish-language school. Her hobbies include reading, cooking, dancing and renovating her new home.

Benjamin Neidich, Social Studies Teacher

• B.A. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Benjamin Neidich received his undergraduate degree in history and began his teaching career at South Elgin High School. He is an avid football fan and his favorite teams include the Fighting Illini and the Chicago Bears.

Dawn Navejas, English Teacher 

• M.S. University of Dayton

Dawn Navejas has been teaching high school since 2001. She has a B.A. in English/Spanish and an M.S. in Education from the University of Dayton. She is also currently finishing an M.A. in Linguistics at Northeastern Illinois University. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, reading, watching movies, and spending time with her husband and daughter.

Andrew Nordstrom, SPED Aide

• B.A. Illinois State University

Andrew is a graduate of Illinois State University with a bachelor's degree in Geography and a minor in tourism.  He is currently in the Master's program at NEIU working towards a teaching degree in special education.  Andrew is an assistant boy's basketball coach and in his free time he enjoys loving life and traveling.

Zachary Novick, Social Studies Teacher

• B.A. Millikin University

Zachary Novick prides himself on being a consummate Northsider and is a proud product of Chicago neighborhoods and public schools. He has worked at Northtown since 2004 and currently teaches sophomore World History, Senior Western Civilization, and Law. As a hobby, Novick plays drums in a few rock bands, hangs out on the beach, and ponders the nature of existence, relationships, and communication.

Jane O’Halloren, English Teacher

• B.A. St. Olaf College

Jane O’Halloren began her professional career as an editor in educational publishing. After realizing that she would rather interact with people than sit in a cubicle, she became a teacher. As an English teacher at CICS Northtown, O'Halloren holds degrees in both English and French and enjoys the time she spends interacting with students, her colleagues and parents. In her free time, she likes to read, cook, run, bike, and swim.

Drew O’Malley, PE Teacher

• B.A. Marquette University

Melissa Olsen, Mathematics Teacher

• B.S. Michigan State University
• MAT Marygrove College

Melissa Olsen is a mathematics teacher and Student Government Moderator at CICS Northtown Academy. Prior to joining Northtown, she worked at Leslie High School in Leslie, Michigan teaching Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and Trigonometry/Pre-Calculus.

After moving to Chicago, she was a long-term substitute at Highcrest Middle School in Wilmette teaching 6th grade math and science and was the Math Resource teacher here at Northtown for the 2010-2011 school year.

Her hobbies include dance and gymnastics. Olsen started and coached Leslie High School’s very first dance team and hopes to coach at the competitive level again soon!

Amy Owen, College Counselor

• B.A. University of Wisconsin – Madison

Amy Owen works as a College Counselor at CICS Northtown Academy and is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she earned a B.A. in Communications and English. Upon graduation from college, Ms. Owen joined AmeriCorps and worked on the development and design team for Milwaukee Renaissance Academy, where she later became the Program Director. She later decided that counseling was her passion and is completing her M.A. In School Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University.  

Therese Owens, SPED Teacher

• M.A. Special Ed – Northeastern Illinois University

 Prior to teaching at Northtown Academy, Therese Owens worked in Telecommunication for 17 years.  After retiring from Telecommunication, she stayed at home as a full time Mom with her three children.  After 8 years, she returned to work as a Teaching Assistant for a Special Education Co-op.  Working with children with special needs inspired Therese to go back to school to get her Master's Degree.  In her free time, she enjoys road trips with her family in their RV.  Therese and her family have visited every state in the contiguous United States except Oregon, Washington, Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire.  She enjoys working here at Northtown Academy and believes her colleagues and the students here are wonderful!

Jamie Parlor, English Teacher 

• M.A. Northwestern University

Jamie Parlor is a graduate of Northwestern University where she completed her M.A. in English. She joined CICS Northtown Academy after serving for two years in an English Ph.D. program at Northwestern University. Parlor completed her student teaching at Northtown and is passionate about reading, languages and food.

Eva Peroulas, Nurse

 

Brian Peterson, English Teacher

• B.A. Western Illinois University

Brian Peterson earned his B.A. in English Education from Western Illinois University and prior to joining CICS Northtown Academy, taught for Bennett Community Schools and Moline High School. Peterson published his first book “The Burning Fight: The Nineties Hardcore Revolution in Ethics, Politics, Spirit, and Sound” in 2009. In his spare time, Peterson continues to work on fiction and non-fiction books, features, and short stories.

Timothy Poulemanos, Associate Case Manager 

• B.A. Northeastern Illinois University

Timothy Poulemanos joined Civitas Schools as a charter Northtown Academy faculty member in 2003 following his teaching experience working with students in a therapeutic day/alternative school setting at the Jewish Children’s Bureau, Chicago and Cyd Lash Academy, Special Education District of Lake County.  Timothy graduated Summa Cum Laude from the Board of Governor’s program at NEIU following careers in banking and health care.  Mr. “P.” coached girls’ tennis 4 years and currently moderates the Bowling and Greek clubs at Northtown Academy.  His hobbies include bowling, tennis, hiking, and traveling.

Cindy Rico, French Teacher

• B.A. University of Indianapolis

Ms. Rico received her Bachelors degree from the University of Indianapolis in Spanish and French secondary Education. Prior to teaching at Northtown, she taught in Indianapolis for a year. She also had the pleasure of leading a trip with Northtown students to France and Spain the summer of 2011. In her spare time she enjoy, cooking, baking and traveling. 

Nicole Rousakis, English Teacher

• B.A. Illinois State University

Nicole Rousakis is a graduate of Illinois State University where she earned her B.A. in English/Secondary Education. Upon graduation from college, she worked as a T.A. at CICS Northtown and completed her student teaching at Fenton High School in Bensenville Illinois. In her free time, she likes to travel, run and play with her dog.

Kevin Ryan, Dean of Students

• B.A. Northeastern Illinois University

Kevin Ryan has been in education for over 30 years and joined Northtown Academy in its inaugural year as the Dean of Students. He is a graduate of Saint Patrick’s High School and Northeastern Illinois University with a degree in history and education.  Mr. Ryan and his wife Mary, who is also an educator, have lived in Niles for 25 years with their 4 children.

Patrick Ryan, SPED Aide 

 

Lia Schreier, School Psychologist

• Ed.S.  The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
• M.S.  Loyola University Chicago
• B.A.  Northern Illinois University

Ms. Lia Schreier is in her first year at Northtown. In addition to her Education Specialist degree in school psychology, she received a M.A. degree in human resources and a B.A. degree in psychology.  Prior to becoming a School Psychologist, she had careers in human resources and as a horseback riding trainer.  Her hobbies include travel, pottery, and spending time with her two “pumas”, Kona and Daisy.

Kristen Smiley, Dance Teacher

• B.F.A Niagara University

Kristen earned her BFA at Niagara University and has spent the past 5 years working as a dance and theatre teaching artist with a number of companies in New York, Kentucky and the Chicago-land area including Hubbard Street Dance Chicago’s Education and Outreach, American Theatre Company’s Mosaic Project, Hands Together Heart to Art and Dream Big Performing Arts Workshop. When not in the classroom, she works as a professional performer and choreographer.  

Mark Stasiorowski, Social Studies Teacher

• M.A. National-Louis University

Mark Stasiorowski earned his Master’s degree in teaching from National-Louis University and his B.A. in History from DePaul University. While working on his undergraduate degree, he worked at a record store where he purchased and now owns more than 1500 CD’s.

Jamie Steel, Assistant Dean

• M.A.T. University of Illinois - Chicago
• B.A. History—University of Michigan

Jamie Steel came to CICS Northtown Academy after teaching for three years in Boulder, Colorado.  He was a World History teacher at Northtown for three years and has spent the past five as Assistant Dean. In addition to helping with discipline and operations, he is the co-moderator of the Student Leader Club. His interests include music, golf, baseball, and travel.  He recently completed his second master’s degree and Type 75 Certificate at Northeastern Illinois University.  Jamie is the proud father of a daughter, Adeline Steel, born June 1, 2011.

Patrick Strybel, Science Team Lead

• B.S. Indiana University

Patrick Strybel earned his a B.S. degree from Indiana University in Biology, Chemistry and Psychology.  He started his teaching career in Philadelphia where he taught middle school, before coming to Chicago.  He is currently taking M.A. classes at National-Louis University. He enjoys coaching the boy’s varsity baseball team and, when not at school, working on cars and participating in auto-crosses.

Scott Stunkel, Technology Teacher

• M.S. Northwestern University
• B.S. Purdue University

Formerly a commercial pilot and flight instructor, Mr. Stunkel has a passion for teaching students difficult technology skills and relating it to their lives. He participated in a large-scale research project on using computer-based assessments in the classroom, and continues that work at Northtown Academy. In addition to his research, Mr. Stunkel is always looking for ways to integrate advances in technology into the classic American classroom, teaching everything from java programming to Internet survival skills.

Jean Goldrich-Sutow, English Teacher

• B.A. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Jean Goldrich has been a Writing/English teacher at CICS Northtown since 2006. Prior to teaching at Northtown, she was a Research Analyst for the GEODE Initiative at Northwestern University, where she helped edit and develop curricular resources and materials for an environmental science curriculum. During her time at CICS Northtown, she has received grants from Donors Choose for the Film Club, moderated the school’s National Honor Society, and contributed to the school’s Sophomore Literacy Team and Writing Curriculum Redevelopment Team. 

Kathleen Sweet, Mathematics Teacher

• B.A. Otterbein College
• M.A. National Louis University

Kathleen Sweet completed her undergraduate studies in Mathematics at Otterbein College in Westerville, Ohio. She She received her Master's Degree from National Louis University. She has successfully completed two projects with Donors Choose and hopes to complete more in the future. Outside of school, Ms. Sweet enjoys seeing a good musical, exploring the city, and baking.

Ursula Lindgren-Swiergula, Math Teacher

• B.A. DePaul University

Amy Swibel, Social Studies Teacher

• B.A. New York University
• M.A. Northwestern University

Amy Swibel earned her B.A. from New York University where she developed a concentration in human rights and education.  While at NYU, Amy was awarded the Catherine B. Reynolds Scholarship for Social Entrepreneurship which helped her build the skills and knowledge-base to work across sectors to tackle injustices in education.  Upon graduation from NYU, Amy spent time in Haiti developing curriculum for NYC public schools and has since developed the group USteachers4HaitianTeachers with four other teachers from New York, in which they support an elementary school by providing curriculum, materials, and professional development opportunities.  After Haiti, Amy spent a year teaching English in Spain before she came back to her roots in Chicago to attend Northwestern University where she earned her Master’s of Science in Education and Social Policy.  Amy completed her student teaching at CICS Northtown in 2011, and is thrilled to be a full-time Puma!

Kristen Thomas, Mathematics Department Team Lead

• B.A. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Kristen Thomas is a Chicago native that has been teaching Math at Northtown since its doors opened in 2003. She is in the process of completing her Master’s degree in Mathematics at Northeastern Illinois University.  Ms. Thomas feels fortunate to be able to share her hobbies with her students, such as volunteering, softball, camping, traveling, skiing, and volleyball, through school activities and trips.   

Jeanette Thompson, Art Teacher

• M.A. New York University

Jeanette Thompson is Nationally Board Certified and holds a Masters in Education from NYU and a BFA from the State University of New York at New Paltz. She is actively involved in local Chicago arts, including curating shows, exhibiting her art, and acting as the Illinois state rep for the Surface Design Association. Each year she explores original themes, introduces new media, and guides students to see themselves as artists.

Andres Tovar, Special Education Teacher

• B.A. Illinois State University

Andres Tovar has just completed his 12th year of teaching.  He finished his undergraduate studies at Illinois State University in 1995 and promptly began teaching at Elgin H.S. After two years, he set out to fulfill a dream of travel and adventure that lasted nearly a year.  His travels began with a 5-month road-trip around the Western U.S., then 2 months in Guatemala studying Spanish, and finishing with 4 months bouncing around the Greek Islands and Turkey. When not working, Mr. Tovar can be found riding his motorcycle, spending time with friends and family, and checking out live music. 

Claire Valley, English Teacher

• M.Ed. DePaul University
• B.A. Saint Mary's College

Claire Valley graduated from Saint Mary's College in 2005 with a B.A. in English Literature.  In 2010 she completed a Master’s degree in secondary education at DePaul University.  When not teaching, she enjoys screenprinting, reading anything available, and testing new recipes on her family.  

Kaitlin Wagner, Science Teacher 

• B.A. Boston College

Kaitlin Wager is excited to work in her third year at CICS Northtown.  She is currently working on her Masters in Teaching at National-Louis University.  She has had experience teaching Biology in the L.A. Unified School District, as well as life skills and job coaching at a Boston school for children with multiple, intensive special needs.  Ms. Wagner is the assistant girl’s soccer coach for Northtown, and loves nature, being outside, music, reading, running, and of course, the Red Sox!

Christopher Wakefield, Music Teacher

• M.A. Northeastern Illinois University
• MBA DePaul University

Christopher Wakefield is a Music teacher at CICS Northtown Academy. He has an MBA in Marketing and has spent time working in management for the Bombay Company. He completed his student teaching at Evanston Township High School and when not working, he is an avid golfer and club performer, having performed in China, Italy, Germany, Austria, Italy and Mexico.

Vincent Walker, Physical Education Teacher

• B.A. Northeaster Illinois University

Vincent Walker is a PE teacher at CICS Northtown Academy and a graduate of Northeastern Illinois University where he earned a B.A. in Physical Education. He has previously coached football and baseball at York Community High School in Elmhurst, IL. He spends his free time enjoying his family.

Liz Winter, English Teacher 

• B.A. Hope College

Elizabeth Winter is a graduate of Hope College where she double majored in English and Spanish for secondary education. Prior to joining CICS Northtown as an English teacher, she taught at Mather and York high schools. She loves to travel and has studied abroad in Spain. She currently coaches Lacrosse at New Trier High School.

Suzanne Wilson, Science Teacher

• B.A. University of Pennsylvania

 Suzanne Wilson graduated from University of Pennsylvania with a degree in bioengineering.  After graduation, she worked as a chemical formulator at Johnson and Johnson on products like Listerine. She then went back to school to pursue her Master of Education at Northwestern University.

Michael Wollney, Physical Education Teacher

• B.S. Eastern Illinois University

Michael Wollney is a graduate of Eastern Illinois University with a degree in physical education.

Full Calendar

CICS Northtown Academy
3900 West Peterson Avenue
Chicago, IL 60659-3162
(773) 478-3655
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