New Teacher Feature - Part 3

We’re excited to welcome our newest certified staff members to Sycamore Community School District 427! As they begin their journey with us, we are taking the opportunity to introduce you to the educators who will be helping our students learn, grow, and thrive throughout the 2026-27 school year.

This is Part 3 of our New Teacher Features, where you’ll get to know our new teachers a little better through a Q&A highlighting their backgrounds, experiences, interests, and what they’re looking forward to most about joining our district. We invite you to meet the newest members of our school community!

 

Mrs. Kristin Janisch

K-5 EL Teacher at North Elementary School and North Grove Elementary School

What do you like to do in your free time?
I love walking my dog, watching my kids’ sporting events, trying new restaurants with my husband, and talking about all things education, pretty much all the time!

What's the most interesting job that you have ever had?
I taught kindergarten right out of college, when it was half-day programming. It was double the kids and double the fun! I would even take double the field trips in one day.

What school memory from when you were a student still impacts you today?
I have a lot of school memories, but one that stands out is my second grade teacher, Mrs. Enright, helping me work through new subtraction skills with an incredible amount of patience. I can still remember how kind she was to me. I try to bring that same patience and kindness to my students as they learn and grow.

Why did you choose to become a teacher?
I was raised by two educators, and I honestly feel like teaching is part of who I am. My dad believed teaching was the greatest profession, and he loved encouraging others to become teachers. His influence definitely rubbed off on me, and my dad was a big reason why I chose this path.

What is your favorite thing about Sycamore so far?
The Sycamore School District has educated all three of our children. We have one child who recently graduated from Sycamore High School, one currently at the high school, and one in elementary school. I’m truly grateful for all of the educators who have poured into our kids over the years.

Is there anything else you would like to share with the Sycamore community?
I’m excited to now work in the same district where my own children have grown and learned. It feels like a full circle moment for me.

Mrs. Alyssa Tucker

4-5 Special Education Resource Teacher at Southeast Elementary School

What do you like to do in your free time?
I love slow mornings with a warm cup of coffee and spending time in my backyard watching my kids play. One of my favorite ways to take care of myself is going to the gym and lifting weights. I also enjoy spending time with my family, whether that’s attending golf outings (mostly as a spectator!), going for long walks, or taking trips to the park together. Those quiet, everyday moments with my family are what I value most.

What school memory from when you were a student still impacts you today?
One school memory that has stayed with me happened in third grade. We were learning how to round numbers, and no matter how hard I tried, I just couldn't understand it. We were asked to complete a worksheet independently, and I remember sitting quietly at my desk, overwhelmed and in tears because I felt so confused. When it was time to turn in our work, I wiped away my tears and walked my paper to my teacher. Instead of saying anything, she simply gave me a long hug. There were no words, just kindness, understanding, and reassurance.

That moment has stayed with me all these years. It taught me that sometimes the smallest gestures can have the greatest impact. I strive to be that person for my students and recognize when they need compassion just as much as they need instruction.

Why did you choose to become a teacher?
I became a teacher because, from a young age, I've always had a passion for working with children. I love their enthusiasm, curiosity, and the unique perspective they bring to each day. Being around kids has always brought me joy.

I was also inspired by my own experiences as a student. Learning didn't always come easily for me in elementary school, and I remember what it felt like to struggle and need extra support. Those experiences gave me a deep sense of empathy and a desire to be the kind of teacher who helps students believe in themselves. I want every child to know they are capable, valued, and supported, especially those who may need a little extra encouragement along the way.

Ms. Megan Baker

ABLE Special Education Teacher at North Grove Elementary School

What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to walk my dog Ollie and read.

What's the most interesting job that you have ever had?
I worked in a doggie daycare and boarding.

What school memory from when you were a student still impacts you today?
I had an English teacher in high school who always made class so fun. He would find ways to make the books we were reading really engaging, as well as make the essays we had to write more manageable.

Why did you choose to become a teacher?
I chose to become a special ed teacher because I took some leadership classes in high school, and I learned I loved working with those students to see them flourish and become very capable. I enjoy the challenge of figuring out what works best for each individual student.

What is your favorite thing about Sycamore so far?
I grew up in Sycamore, and I have always liked the small-town feel.

Miss Abbey Siragusa

ABLE Special Education Teacher at North Grove Elementary School

What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I love reading, listening to music, and spending time with my family and friends.

What school memory from when you were a student still impacts you today?
When North Grove first opened, I attended as a fifth grader in Mr. Wheeler’s classroom. I remember being included in Best Buddies with Mr. G and loved getting to build relationships with the students in his classroom. That experience began to shape my passion and desire to advocate and work alongside students in the special education community.

Why did you choose to become a teacher?
I chose to become a special education teacher because I am extremely passionate about ensuring that all students are receiving a meaningful, loving, supportive environment in which they are comfortable learning and making mistakes. Advocating for my students is always my top priority, and ensuring they are receiving the tools and supports necessary to access their education has always been my biggest driving factor.

What is your favorite thing about Sycamore so far?
Having gone to school in and previously working in the district as a paraprofessional and in the OSCAR program, I have always loved the close relationships that the Sycamore School District has with the community.

Is there anything else you would like to share with the Sycamore community?
I am so excited for the school year and cannot wait to be a member of the Spartan family again!

Stay tuned for the last installment: Part 4!