New Teacher Feature: Sycamore Middle School & Sycamore High School

Ms. Lord, Art Teacher - Sycamore Middle School

 

What do you like to do in your free time?

Binge-watch sit coms, read, adore my cat, spend time with my friends and family.

What’s the most interesting job you’ve ever had?

I worked at a local friend's butcher shop throughout high school

Why did you choose to become a teacher?

I knew I wanted to be an artist OR a teacher, and it took me an oddly long amount of time to realize that both of those options were the job of my favorite classroom teacher! The art room was my safe space in school and I was excited to create that space for others.

What’s your favorite thing about Sycamore so far?

It has me back and close to all the fun restaurants and stores I enjoyed while attending NIU!

Ms. Andrew, Allied Arts Teacher, Sycamore Middle School

 

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love to run trails with my dog Charlie, craft with my nieces, and travel to new places.

What’s the most interesting job you’ve ever had?

I worked at a family-run summer camp as a counselor and lifeguard. It was a lot of fun leading hikes, teaching archery, and guiding horseback rides!

Why did you choose to become a teacher?

I was fortunate to get to spend a class period in high school as a teacher’s aide in a kindergarten and 2nd grade classroom and found it so rewarding. These experiences and my love of art and creative thinking led me to pursue teaching!

What’s your favorite thing about Sycamore so far?

My favorite thing about Sycamore so far is the friendly and warm staff that have welcomed me to the middle school!

Mrs. Jordan, Special Education Teacher - Sycamore Middle School

 

What do you like to do in your free time?

Spending time with my family.

What’s the most interesting job you’ve ever had?

 Respite care provider.

Why did you choose to become a teacher?

 I've always wanted to help others and make a positive impact on someone's life, and teaching allows me to do that.

What’s your favorite thing about Sycamore so far?

The strong sense of community.

Dr. Rones, Math Teacher - Sycamore High School

 

What do you like to do in your free time?

TaeKwonDo with my family. Glass etching. Spending time with my kids. Learning and practicing Spanish. Being outside in the sunshine!

What’s the most interesting job you’ve ever had?

Inventory person at an auto salvage lot (junkyard).

Why did you choose to become a teacher?

I feel like education chose me; teaching is where my skills and interests have consistently and naturally led me, even when I didn't foresee myself being a traditional classroom teacher. (I once wanted to be an outdoor educator at a residential camp)!

What’s your favorite thing about Sycamore so far?

Positive attitudes and friendly people. 

Mrs. Mariotti, School Counselor - Sycamore High School

 

What do you like to do in your free time?

I enjoy doing pretty much anything outdoors (hiking, camping, water skiing, snow skiing, running, etc.), baking, and attending my kids' various sporting events and activities.

What’s the most interesting job you’ve ever had?

I would have to say that my most interesting "job" by far was my many years as a stay-at-home mom to my 5 kids (now ages 8 to 14)!

Why did you choose to become a teacher?

I chose to become a school counselor because I wanted to help youth navigate social, emotional, and academic issues during a crucial time in their development. As a high school counselor, I love seeing students' growth in all of these areas throughout 4 years as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives!

What’s your favorite thing about Sycamore so far?

I have been so impressed with how warm and welcoming the Sycamore school community has been. Everyone I've met has been positive, helpful, and sincere, and I look forward to collaborating with such a great group of colleagues!

Miss Baker, Agriculture & Science Teacher - Sycamore High School

 

What do you like to do in your free time?

Travel, spend time with friends & family, cook/bake, and be outdoors.

What’s the most interesting job you’ve ever had?

Barista.

Why did you choose to become a teacher?

I had several influential teachers in my life and was also very involved in my agriculture education classes and FFA in high school, where I found I really liked mentoring others and educating them about agriculture. I have always loved learning and am passionate about helping students figure out their postsecondary plans and careers, so I decided teaching high school was for me!

What’s your favorite thing about Sycamore so far?

How welcoming and kind everyone is!

 

 

Mr. Bryan, Special Education Teacher - Sycamore High School

 

What do you like to do in your free time?

Golf, video games, hanging out with friends.

What’s the most interesting job you’ve ever had?

Valeting at nightclubs near Chicago.

Why did you choose to become a teacher?

I had very impactful people in my life that were my teachers. They inspired me to take on such a great career.

What’s your favorite thing about Sycamore so far?

The support system that is in place for first-year teachers.