Principal
Elementary PreK-5
Professional Bio
Hello! I’m Mrs. Quiñones Nelson and I’m the proud Principal at Oakdale Elementary. I have been working in the educational career for over 30 years. I have worked as a Family Educator, Paraprofessional, Behavior Specialist, Teacher, Assistant Principal, and now, Principal. As a young Latina girl I wanted to advocate for underserved communities as I had observed injustices in our education system. I’m proud to serve the Oakdale Community and understand the qualities our beautiful people of Waukegan has to offer.
Personal Bio
I love spending time with my family. I enjoy reading books written by authors from all over the world. I love learning more about the cultures of people all around the world. I like music, arts & crafts, shooting pool, dominoes and darts.
How to contact the principal
Email: cquinones-nelson@wps60.org
Number: 224-303-1860
Jose Salazar
Assistant Principal
Professional Bio
I graduated from College of Lake County with an Associates in Arts. Following that, I graduated from Fort Lewis College with a major in business administration. I graduated from Roosevelt University with a Master of Arts in Secondary Education. I taught entrepreneurship at a high school in Zion and Project Lead the Way at Neal Math and Science Academy in North Chicago. Upon completing my Master of Arts in Educational Leadership at Northeastern Illinois University, I worked as assistant principal at Melrose Park Elementary School for two years. I then joined the Oakdale team as assistant principal. I love coming to school and seeing our students every day, and I make it my number one priority to have students feel safe, welcomed, and included..
Personal Bio
I grew up in and have lived in Mundelein my whole life. My wife Jennifer have been married for almost 8 years, and we have three beautiful girls (Halee, 25; Hannah, 22; Hope, 16), and two granddaughters, Giavanna and Joanne. When I am not at school, I enjoy fishing, construction projects, reading, and spending time with my family.
How to contact the teacher
I am here to serve our Oakdale Community. I can be reached at:
Email: jsalazar@wps60.org
Phone: (224) 688-1127
Ms. Jackson
1st Grade
Professional Bio
Have been teaching for 12 years, mostly primary
grades, 1st - 2nd, and upper grades 3rd and 5th.
Previously taught in Maryland for 5 years. Spent the
earlier years and recently teaching in Illinois and
Wisconsin. Served on the Instructional Leadership
Team at Oakdale for 3 years and all 5 years in
Maryland. Served as a Summer School administrator 2
years in Waukegan. Co-Created the Summer School
Literacy Curriculum and Summer School program this
past year. Currently serves as a co-team leader for 1st
grade.
Personal Bio
Born and raised in Waukegan, Illinois. Attended
Waukegan grade schools, junior high school, and 2
years as a Raider at the brookside campus in grades
freshman and sophomore. Spent the last two years at
Zion-Benton as a ZeeBee! Teaching is where my heart
is and as a little girl, I always knew I wanted to be a
teacher. I have 2 kids, a son that is 28 years old and a
daughter that is 18 years old, two granddaughters: one
8 years old and the other 1 years old. For fun, I love to
spend time with my family, playing games, and
watching movies. I recently gained a love for painting.
How to contact the teacher
Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions,
comments, concerns, or for support with help
understanding your child’s work/homework. I can be
reached at: sljackson@wps60.org, Class Dojo, Remind,
or school at 224- 303-1860.
Ms. Nitzandra
Rivera-Medina
2nd Grade Dual
Professional Bio
I have a double Bachelor's degree in Arts with a concentration in Elementary Education and a minor in Special Education. And another in Accounting from the University of Puerto Rico in Humacao, PR. And another Master's Degree in Spanish Curriculum and Teaching from the Ana G Mendez University in Carolina Puerto Rico. And a second Master's Degree in Special Education from Grand Canyon University in Arizona State.
Personal Bio
I am a proud Puerto Rican! I have one son 12 year old son named Joseangel who is my greatest treasure and life project. This is my 18th year as a teacher but my 4th at Waukegan Public Schools, of which 3 have been at Oakdale. By the way, I appreciate the opportunity to be part of the growth of your children.
How to contact the teacher
You can contact me through my institutional email nriveramedina@wps60.org, Classdojo, Remind or by text message at 214-940-6654.
Kaitlin Williams
3rd Grade
Professional Bio
I received my Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from Trinity International University in 2018. This is my 3rd year teaching in Waukegan, and my 2nd year at Oakdale.
Personal Bio
The best thing about being a teacher is helping my students grow and learn new things every day. I am very passionate about helping students discover a love for learning and knowing that they can do anything they set their minds to.
How to contact the teacher
kawilliams@wps60.org
(224)-303-3770
Class Dojo and Remind
Ms. Chappell
5th Grade
Professional Bio
Hi! I'm Ms. Chappell and I am your 5th grade Math and Social Studies teacher. I am so excited to be working with you and your child this year!
This is my 19th year teaching and my 4th year at Oakdale Elementary. I have loved every second of my time as a Wildcat! I grew up in this area and I’m delighted to get to teach here in Waukegan.
Personal Bio
Outside of teaching, I am the mother of 2 adult daughters and 1 son, who attends Jack Benny middle school. I am also a Gigi. I have 2 wonderful grandchildren. Reading has always been my passion and I love learning about and teaching history.
How to contact the teacher
I am always open to communicating! My email is pchappell@wps60.org and my extension is 1875. Have a blessed year!
Ms. Krzeszowski
5th Grade
Professional Bio
Hi! I'm Ms. Krzeszowski and I am your 5th grade reading and science teacher! I am so excited to be working with you and your child this year!
This is my fourth year teaching and my fourth year at Oakdale Elementary. I have loved every second of my time as a wildcat! I was only 6 years old when I decided that I wanted to teach and I'm so happy to finally have a spot in a wonderful community such as Waukegan.
Personal Bio
Outside of teaching, I am a dog mom to my 3 year old Great Pyrenees, Oliver and my new 7 month old puppy, Emily. Reading is a huge part of my life and I love to read historical fiction and spend my time thrifting vintage items at local antique malls.
How to contact the teacher
I am always open to communicating! My email is jkrzeszowski@wps60.org and my extension is (will check when back in the building), if you would like to reach me by phone.
Mrs. B. Reyes
4th Grade Dual
Professional Bio
I graduated from Turabo University in Gurabo, Puerto Rico in 2011 with an associates degree in Computer systems and in 2015 with a bachelor's degree in English Elementary Education. After graduating I started working as a 4th and 5th grade English teacher for a private school in Puerto Rico for 2 years. Later on I worked in a homeschooling system to work as an English and computer teacher from Kinder to 12th grade for 3 years.In 2020, I moved here to Waukegan to work as a dual language teacher.
Personal Bio
I was born in Bronx, New York on July 14. My parents are from Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic. I became interested in teaching when I was in second grade and told myself that I would like to change the world by making a huge impact on kids my age at that time. I have been teaching for 6 years and now I have been there for 7 years. Part of my experience has been in Puerto Rico, but now I am part of the Oakdale Wildcats faculty.
How to contact the teacher
If you need to contact me, please do not hesitate to email me at : breyes@wps60.org or call me at (224) 303-1860 Ext 3766
Ms. Heinlein
K-5 General Music
Professional Bio
Ms. Heinlein has a Bachelor of Music with an emphasis in Education from Northern Illinois University. This is her 3rd year teaching K-5 General Music at Oakdale School, and her 5th year teaching music overall. Previously, she taught K-4 General Music in the Freeport School District.
Personal Bio
Ms. Heinlein is from Round Lake, attending school there from 1st grade all the way through high school. She loves making music through singing and playing some instruments like clarinet and ukulele. Her favorite genre of music to listen to is Kpop!
How to contact the teacher
Ms. Heinlein can be reached through email or Remind with any questions!sheinlein@wps60.org
Teacher
ART
Professional Bio
I attended The School Of The Art Institute Of Chicago for my Masters in Fine Art, and then National Louis University in Chicago for my Masters in Teaching Art Education .
I have taught elementary art for 15 years and I love teaching the students at Oakdale Elementary, Waukegan District 60.
Personal Bio
I am a practicing artist working in oils, acrylics & silk painting. My husband and I have twin girls who are sophomores in college studying architecture and Interior design and we live at home with our cat Willow, and dog Suki.
How to contact the teacher
Email - rrivellino@wps60.org
Or… - Remind
Marisol Garay-Talavera
Teacher
Pre-K
Professional Bio
The 2021-2022 school year marks my 11th year in education. I have worked as a teacher and as a Center Director with children ages 3 months to 12 years old. In March of 2020, I joined Oakdale as a Bilingual Diverse Learners Preschool Teacher.
Personal Bio
During my free time I like to spend time with my family and dogs. I am also a sports fan. I previously played and coached soccer (until the pandemic made me retire). My favorite athletes are my daughter and sister. I enjoy watching them play various sports like; soccer, basketball, and badminton.
How to contact the teacher
Email: mgaray-talavera@wps60.org
Text: via Remind 
Teacher
Pre-K Diverse Learner
Professional Bio
My name is Kimberly Darling and I have been in the education field for over 25 years where I have worked with children from preschool through middle school in many facets. My passion is working with children from ages 3-8 I am currently attending American College of Education to obtain my Master’s Degree in Special Education. I obtained my Bachelor's Degree in general education from Kendall College/National Louis University in 2019.
Personal Bio
I am currently attending American College of Education to obtain my Master’s Degree in Special Education. When I am not at school I enjoy working out, reading, and spending time with my husband. I also enjoy conversations with my kids and grandkids through face-time. I am hoping the new year allows for travel to visit my children in the beautiful states of California and North Carolina.
How to contact the teacher
If you would like to contact me please do so through email at kdarling@wps60.org. and/or by phone at 224-303-1860.
Mrs. Villagómez
ESL Resource Teacher
Professional Bio
BA in Elementary Education UPR
MA in Curriculum and Instruction NLU
MA in Educational Leadership ACE
30 Years of Teaching Experience
Personal Bio
Born in Puerto Rico.
Established in Waukegan since 1995. Married and a mother of one. Love teaching, music, reading, good food, and having fun times with family and friends.
Contact Information
You can reach me at:
Oakdale Elementary School
2230 N McAree Rd. Waukegan, IL 60087 (847) 303-1860 arodriguez@wps60.org
Diana
Jimenez-Ramey
2nd grade
Professional Bio
I graduated from College of Lake County with an Associates in arts. Following that, I graduated from Lake Forest College with a double major in elementary education and English literature. I have taught 1st grade for 3 years and 2nd grade for 1 year. I love my career and make it my number one priority to have students feel safe and become independent learners who advocate for themselves.
Personal Bio
I was born in Chicago but raised in the Waukegan area. My parents are both from Guatemala and I travel there almost yearly. I love to read outside of work and to scrapbook. I also enjoy drinking starbucks and going shopping! I have a pet bird and live in the Grayslake area.
On weekends, you can see me binge watching new Netflix series and planning to have a successful week of teaching and learning!
How to contact the teacher
Email: djimenez@wps60.org
Nick Georgeson
Physical Education
Professional Bio
Hello,
My name is Nick Georgeson and I am the physical educator at Oakdale Elementary. I am a graduate of Northern Illinois University with a Bachelors of Physical Education. My passion is to help students grow to love being active so they can live a long healthy life.
Personal Bio
I enjoy being active because a healthy life is a happy life. We only have one body so we need to take care of it. I want all of my students to find the fun and enjoyment of being active so they continue being active for their whole life.
How to contact the teacher
ngeorgeson@wps60.org
Teacher
3 Grade DUAL
Mr. Redondo
Professional Bio
He sido maestro de lengua extranjera en España durante 8 años. Este es mi primer año como maestro en USA. Está siendo toda una experiencia para mi. Enseño todo lo que se al igual que disfruto y aprendo de mis alumnos todos los días
Personal Bio
Me gusta comer sano, hacer deporte, la montaña y escuchar música.
Una de mis pasiones es viajar alrededor del mundo.
La familia y los amigos son muy importantes para mi. Me gusta pasar tiempo de calidad con ellos.
How to contact the teacher
dredondollano@wps60.org
Class Dojo
Mrs. Frazier
Speech and Language
Professional Bio
This is my fourth year at Oakdale School, but I have taught students in Waukegan since 2003 and been a speech/language pathologist in Illinois schools with students from Pre-K through high school since 1989 - that’s over 30 years!
I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Communicative Disorders from Northern Illinois University and my Master of Arts degree in Speech/Language Pathology from Kent State University in Ohio. I also maintain a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech/Language Pathology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and a license from the Illinois Department of Professional Regulation.
Personal Bio
I love learning and always wanted to be a teacher. I have been married for 34 years and am a mom to two beautiful daughters. I also have a new son-in-law! I like to watch movies and play games when it’s cold, but I really like to be outside - at the beach, riding my bike, or just having fun with my family and friends.
How to contact the teacher
The best way to contact me is by email at lfrazier@wps60.org. You can also call me at Oakdale at (224) 303-1888.
Celia Montes De Oca Salgado
Professional Bio
Hi! I am Ms. Montes de Oca. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. The 2021-2022 school year marks my 5th year in education. I have worked as a Pre-k and kindergarten teacher with children ages 3 to 5 years old. In August of 2021, I joined Oakdale as a Bilingual Preschool Teacher. I love teaching to early learners because I strongly believe that children's first encounter with school should inspire them to succeed in their future education.
Personal Bio
During my free time I like to spend quality time with my family and friends. One of my favorite activities is traveling and going shopping. I also like streaming TV shows and movies. I am a very enthusiastic person that always looks for self improvement.
How to contact the teacher
Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions at: cmontesdeocasalgado@wps60.org or Class Dojo.
Mr. Alcozer
4th Grade
Professional Bio
I graduated with highest honors from Illinois State University in December of 2020 and then I worked in Deerfield last spring. This is my first year teaching at Oakdale and it has been wonderful to join this educational community.
Personal Bio
I am from Round Lake beach and have grown up in Lake County my whole life. When I am not at school I enjoy playing video games, golfing, fishing, and spending time with family and friends.
How to contact the teacher
Email: aalcozer@wps60.org
Phone: (224)-303-1860 ext: 3764
I am also available to contact on Class Dojo
Ms. Donato
Fourth Grade
Professional Bio
BS in Elementary Education (Philippines)
MA in Curriculum and Instruction (USA)
Oakdale teacher since 2004
Personal Bio
Hobbies: reading biographies, historical fiction, detective and mystery novels; watching old movies and K-dramas; listening to soft rock music and Beatles songs
Volunteer Work: CLW (St. Dismas, before the pandemic)
Hopes and Dreams: meet my favorite authors in person or visit their birthplaces; travel the world; ride in a hot air balloon
How to contact the teacher
REMIND
Mrs. Raykiewicz
Instructional Coach
Professional Bio
Mrs. Ray has been a teacher in Waukegan Public Schools since 2014. She has taught 1st grade, 4th grade, and 5th grade. This year, as an instructional coach, she is supporting teachers and staff at Oakdale to become even stronger educators. She is currently working on her third Master’s.
Personal Bio
Mrs. Ray lives with her husband of 17 years, 2 children, 2 dogs, and a tank of fish. She enjoys cooking, painting, walking, and warm-weather months. Mrs. Ray can get lost in a good novel for hours.
How to Contact the Coach
lraykiewicz@wps60.org
Martha Weese
Resource
Academic Background
1996 - I graduated from Northeastern Illinois University with B.A. Special Education: Emphasis on LD/ED. 2 Minors: ESL and Spanish. 2002 - I received M.A. in Administration and Leadership in Higher Education
Personal Background
I was born and raised in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala. I came to the U.S. to complete my education. I promote community service and respect to all. I am grateful to be a teacher. It is a privilege to serve students and be part of Oakdale Elementary school. ( I go back and forth to find ways to promote volunteer work and Spanish and English biliteracy in the community and abroad. I founded a Spanish Language School for foreigners in 1989, to promote language/culture equity abroad. Through the school, students volunteer in various community social services in addition to learning Spanish. (www.kiebalam.com) )
Where to reach me:
Martha Weese Oakdale Elementary School Room 27 - Email: mweese@wps60.org Telephone Number (312) 477-6747
Davinia
de Arriba
Second Grade
Ms D
Professional Bio
-Soy graduada en Educación Primaria en la Universidad de La Rioja (España).
-Tengo 5 años de experiencia como maestra en escuelas españolas.
-También soy especialista en Pedagogía Terapeútica aunque siempre he sido tutora.
-Tengo formación en Dificultades en el Aprendizaje, problemas comportamentales y en el Trastorno de Espectro Autista)
Personal Bio
He nacido en una provincia de España llamada La Rioja.
Mis pasiones son mi trabajo, bailar, la música, la naturaleza, los animales y viajar.
Soy una persona muy familiar y sociable. Me gusta disfrutar de la compañía de la gente que me rodea.
How to contact the teacher
Class Dojo (main way to contact me) and Google Classroom.
ddearribaduarte@wps60.org
Telephone: 224 806 9734
Ms. Alicea-Collazo
Kindergarten Dual Language
Professional Bio
María M. Alicea-Collazo has a Bachelor's Degree -Magna Cum Laude- from the University of Puerto Rico, Bayamón campus. The BA was completed for Preschool and Elementary Education. This means that she has preschool, K-3rd and 4th-6th grade licenses. In addition, she completed a Master's Degree in Teaching English as a Second Language from Inter-American University, Metro campus.
She has been teaching for 8 years; from preschool to 4th grade. Six years have been taught in English as a Second Language and two in Dual Language.
Personal Bio
Hello! My name is Maria M. Alicea-Collazo and I am 30 years old. I was born and raised in Puerto Rico for 28 years. I have a wonderful husband (Brian) and an adorable 3-year-old boy (Ryan Alejandro). We moved to Illinois 2 years ago to the Waukegan community and hope to settle down very soon. I truly believe I was made to be a teacher. It is my heart and life. I promise to love and care for your child as if they are my own. It is going to be an awesome year!
How to contact the teacher
224-303-1860
maliceacollazo@wps60.org
https://www.classdojo.com/invite/?c=CDKLYFU
https://classroom.google.com/c/NDQ2NzQ3OTI2OTYw?cjc=bdncws4
Ms. Avila
1st Grade Dual
Professional Bio
Bachelors Degree: University of Illinois at Chicago
Masters Degree: Rockford University
Future Educational Plans: Enroll in a second Masters Program
Experience: 20+ years
Grade Levels taught: Kinder, 1st, 4th, 7th and ESL classes for adults
Personal Bio
Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois.
Absolutely love animals
Mother of four very energetic doggies
Favorite color is red
Strong family values
How to contact the teacher
Email: gavila@wps60.org
1 (224) 303-1860 Ext. 1880
Class Dojo / Remind/ Whatsapp/Personal Number
Mrs. Colman
1st Grade Dual
Professional Bio
Graduated in law and notary, I have worked for several years for the city council.
I gave lectures at the law university, serving as a substitute for the faculty.
I have worked for two years in Waukegan schools as a Paraprofessional.
Currently I am a long term substitute teacher.
Personal Bio
I was born in Paraguay and lived in Spain until I came to the United States with my husband.
I love mountain biking in my free time. In the past I competed in championships.
I consider myself an animal lover, especially dogs. In the future, I would like to combine my work as a lawyer with my passion for caring for dogs.
How to contact the teacher
You can reach me out by:
📧 Mail: acolmancanete@wps60.org
📞 Phone: (224) 413 8980
Mrs. Montemayor-Hoy
Social Worker
Personal Bio
My name is Janeli Montemayor and I am the school social worker not only at Oakdale Elementary but also Clark Elementary in Waukegan. This is my 3rd year in the elementary setting and I love working with the tiny humans. I am an avid reader and it is my goal this year to get through 100 books. I am obsessed with all things Disney and I am at Disney world as many long weekends as I can manage throughout the year. When I am home I love having movie nights and cuddling with my dogs Anakin and Kylo, and my husband Sam.
Professional Bio
I received my bachelors in Social Work from Western Illinois University with a minor in Women’s Studies, and Spanish. I then went on to receive my Master’s degree in social work from Aurora University. I am currently working on the needed hours for my licensed clinical social worker certification.
How to contact me
Since I travel between two schools my preferred mode of communication is email. I will however answer phone calls as well, my email and phone number are below. Feel free to contact me with anything you may need! jmontemayor@wps60.org 224.303.1885
Sarah Villegas
Diverse Learner Teacher
Professional Bio
Ms. Villegas has been a teacher for eight years in the Philippines and this is her ninth year in the teaching profession. She has taught in all grade levels in elementary. She spent most of her teaching years in teaching children with special needs in kindergarten through second grade..
Personal Bio
Ms. Villegas is from the Philippines and is here in the United States participating in the Cultural Exchange Program as a Teacher. She is a recreational baker and she loves the beach so much.
How to Contact the Teacher
ssvillegas@wps60.org
Mrs. Reyes
Kindergarten Dual
Professional Bio
Mrs. Reyes is currently teaching kindergarten dual at Oakdale Elementary. Reyes graduated from Grand Canyon University, obtaining a Master's Degree in Education with a dual major- Early Childhood and Early Childhood Special Education. This is my second year teaching kindergarten. Mrs. Reyes is working on finishing a second Master’s degree in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL)
Personal Bio
My name is Melanie Reyes, I was born and raised in Puerto Rico. I came from a family of educators, that is why I decided to continue the family legacy. I love spending time with my family. I love to teach young minds. I can't wait to spend time learning, teaching and growing with my students.
How to contact the teacher
You can contact me at my email: mereyes@wps60.org, classdojo, google classroom or by the school phone (224.303-1860 ext.)
Ms. Greene
3rd Grade
I’m so glad to know you
Professional Bio
Hello! My name is Ms. Greene. I have been teaching for over 25 years. During the span of my career, I have mostly taught in the North Shore including Libertyville, Mount Prospect, Deerfield, North Chicago, and Waukegan. I have taught every grade level from pre-k - 4th. However, for the last 5 years I have been teaching 3rd grade which is why there are 3 birds sitting on each side of me …
Personal Bio
I have three amazing children who I love love so dearly. My oldest daughter Skye 20, is at Illinois State. She is studying to be a teacher. My son Jett, 19 is at the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University, and my baby Echo is now 14 years old and getting ready to enter high school. I also have a kitty cat named Kirby that thinks he is a dog.