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: [email protected]
Number: 224-303-1860
Sra. B. Reyes
Teacher Lead
Biografía Profesional
Me gradué de la Universidad del Turabo en Gurabo, Puerto Rico en 2011 con un título de asociado en Sistemas de Computación y en 2015 con una licenciatura en Educación Primaria en Inglés. Después de graduarme comencé a trabajar como maestra de inglés de cuarto y quinto grado en una escuela privada en Puerto Rico durante 2 años. Más tarde, trabajé en un sistema de educación “Homeschooling” para trabajar como profesora de inglés e informática desde Kinder hasta el grado 12 durante 3 años. En 2020, me mude a Waukegan para trabajar como profesora de dos idiomas. Este año tengo el privilegio de trabajar como “Teacher Lead” y estoy estudiando para ser administradora escolar.
Biografía personal
Nací en Bronx, Nueva York el 14 de julio. Mis padres son de Puerto Rico y República Dominicana. Me interesé en la enseñanza cuando estaba en segundo grado y me dije a mí mismo que me gustaría cambiar el mundo teniendo un gran impacto en los niños de mi edad en ese momento. He estado enseñando durante 8 años. Parte de mi experiencia ha sido en Puerto Rico, pero ahora soy parte de la facultad de Oakdale Wildcats.
Cómo comunicarse con el maestro
Si necesita comunicarse conmigo, no dude en enviarme un correo electrónico a: [email protected] o llamarme al (224) 303-1860 Ext.
Ms. Minerva Cruz
Instructional Coach K-5
Professional Bio
I graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 1992 with a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Four years later, I earned my Type 75 administrator’s certification. I started in education as a teacher’s aide in Chicago. I then became a long term substitute and after earning my teaching credential became a K-9 bilingual elementary teacher. I have been a school administrator at the elementary, middle and high school levels. The best part of being an educator is interacting with the children, their families and other educators I have had the pleasure of knowing over the years. They have all enriched my life in many ways..
Personal Bio
My family means everything to me! My husband is my best friend. He, along with my two children, make me laugh and provide me with much entertainment. Oh and so do my two dogs, Luna and Tok-Tok. I enjoy reading autobiographies, finding deals at thrift stores, and spending time in my she-shed in South Carolina.
How to contact the teacher
I may be reached through email at [email protected].
ENRICO FERRI
K-5 IST
Professional Bio
I have been an educator for 26 years. The first 25 years I spent as a classroom teacher, during which I taught every grade level from kindergarten to high school. Last year was my first year out of the classroom as an instructional support teacher at Oakdale.
Personal Bio
Something important you should know about me is that I am the son of immigrant parents (from Italy) and the first to go to college and earn a Master's degree( K-6 Mathematics).
How to contact the teacher
You can reach me at [email protected] Please give me 24 hours to respond to messages. If it is urgent, then please leave a message with the office staff.
Marisol Talavera
Professional Bio
I joined the Oakdale team three years ago as a Bilingual Diverse Learners Preschool Teacher. Prior to Oakdale I worked as a teacher and as a center director with children ages 3 months to 12 years old. I have 13+ years of experience working in education. I hold my Master of Education in Early Childhood Education with a focus on adult and continuing education. I am also certified to coach and in sports First Aid. I am currently working on my Master’s in Teaching English as a Second Language.
Personal Bio
During my free time I like to spend time with my family and three dogs. I am also a sports fan. I previously played and coached soccer.
How to contact the teacher
Email: [email protected]
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: [email protected] or Class Dojo.
Ms. Brooke Sherman
Pre-Kindergarten
Professional Bio
Pre-kindergarten teacher in the Waukegan Public School District since 2004.Graduated from Loras College earning a B.A in Physical Education.Graduated from National-Louis University earning a M.A.T in Early Childhood Education.
Personal Bio
Lives in Lakemoor with her husband, two daughters, and her puppy, Theodore Fluffypants.
How to contact the teacher
[email protected]
Room 29 telephone extension: 3760
Mona P. Williams
Kindergarten
Professional Bio
Masters:
Early Childhood Education
Elementary Education
Reading Endorsement
Personal Bio
Home Town: Charleston, S.C.
Years of Experience: 37
Two daughters :Suraya Abrianna
One dog: True
How to contact the teacher
[email protected]
Oakdale224-303-1860
Lissette Rosa
First Grade Dual Language Teacher
Professional Bio
I hold an Early Childhood and Special Education Certifications. I have 20 years of teaching experience.
Poseo Certificación de Educación Temprana y Educación Especial. Tengo 21 años de experiencia como maestra. El pasado año escolar enseñé Primer Grado en Lenguaje Dual.
Personal Bio
I was born in New York and grew up in Puerto Rico. After 15 years I lived in Texas where I raised my children Julio and Gloriann. Julio has two sons Julio jr and Ivan who attend Fort Worth ISD schools. I currently reside in the city of Zion, IL with my husband.
Nací en New York y crecí en Puerto Rico. Después de 15 años viví en Texas donde crié a mis hijos Julio y Gloriann. Julio tiene dos hijos Julio jr e Ivan los cuales asisten en las escuelas de Fort Worth ISD. Actualmente resido en la ciudad de Zion, IL junto con mi esposo.
How to contact the teacher
224-303-1860
Oakdale Elementary School
[email protected]
Ms. Alicea-Collazo
First Grade Dual Language
How to contact the teacher
224-303-1880
[email protected]
Ms. Alicea’s Class 23-24
Room: 107
Professional Bio
Hi! My name is María M. Alicea-Collazo. I have a Bachelor's Degree -Cum Laude- from the University of Puerto Rico, Bayamón campus. My BA is in Preschool and Elementary Education. This means that I can teach from preschool, K-3rd, and 4th-6th grade. In addition, I completed a Master's Degree in Teaching English as a Second Language from Inter-American University, Metro campus.
I have been teaching for 10 years; from preschool to 4th grade. Six years have been taught in English as a Second Language and 4 years in a Dual Language Program.
Personal Bio
I am 32 years old. I was born and raised in Puerto Rico for 28 years. I have a wonderful husband (Brian) and an adorable 5-year-old boy (Ryan Alejandro). We moved to Illinois 4 years ago to the Waukegan community and I’m so glad to serve my community. 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 were my own. It is going to be an awesome year!
Moisés García
Maestro, Segundo Grado
Biografía profesional
Llevo 7 años de profesor en diferentes niveles y el próximo curso será mi segundo año en la escuela Oakdale. Estudié el Grado de Maestro y un Máster en formación de profesorado en secundaria. También estudié el Grado de Relaciones Laborales y Recursos Humanos y un Máster en Prevención de Riesgos Laborales. Sigo formándome continuamente con diferentes cursos como nuevas estrategias educativas, nuevas tecnologías, etc.
Biografía personal
Nací y crecí en Madrid, España. Tengo dos hermanos mayores y dos hermanas menores. Me gusta hacer diferentes cosas como montar en bicicleta, senderismo, escuchar música, etc.
Formas de contacto
Me podrán contactar por classdojo y por teléfono llamando a la escuela.
Mrs. Laura Galaviz
Second Grade Dual Language
How to contact the teacher
224-303-1880
https://classdojo.com/?r=ZNKmvgQ494iowy7S
Mrs. Galaviz Class 23-24
Segundo Grado: Mrs. Galaviz
Room: 116
Professional Bio
Hi! My name is Laura Galaviz. I have a Bachelor's Degree -Summa Cum Laude- from the San Augustine College, Chicago campus. My BA is in Psychology and my AA is in Early Childhood Education. This means that I can teach from Pre-K to 12th grade.
I have been working with children for more than 10 years. I have completed different certificate programs and trainings related to the education, social and emotional development of children.
Personal Bio
I am 38 years old. I was born and raised in Mexico. I have a wonderful husband and an adorable Daughter and Son. We moved to Illinois 11 years ago to the Waukegan area. I’m so glad to serve my community. I truly believe I was made to work with children and families. It is my heart and life. I promise to love and care for your child as if they were my own. It is going to be an awesome year!
Zurisadarai Guzman
Sub Teacher, third grade.
Professional Bio
Regarding my studies, I have a law degree from the University of Guanajuato, Mexico. I have a Master's Degree in Oral Litigation from the University of California Western School of Law, San Diego California. Years ago I was a teacher for university students, I was a Spanish teacher in various private schools and my current experience is with children from Kinder to 8 grades. They have taught me my true passion and motivate my day to day to give the best of myself to receive in them the future of our country.
Personal Bio
I enjoy spending time with my family, playing with my daughter, going for walks and taking long trips that end up being unforgettable adventures. I enjoy running on summer and fall days, I love coffee, movies and mystery books.
How to contact the teacher
If you need to contact me please call 224- 303-1860 or email me at [email protected].
Aubrey Mayfield
Teacher, 3rd Grade
Professional Bio
I am a dedicated and passionate educator with 7 years of experience in the field of education. I have a Masters degree in Elementary education and bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom.
Throughout my educational career I have had the privilege of teaching students at various grade levels. Furthermore, I believe in creating a positive and inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and supported.
Personal Bio
I am a proud graduate of Waukegan high school. Apart from this, I enjoy playing as well as coaching sports. Moreover, I believe in the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
How to contact the teacher
Questions, Concerns, Comments? Don't hesitate to reach out:
[email protected] (224)303-4326 Or on Class Dojo
Ms.
McGee 
Teacher, 3rd Grade
Professional Bio
I have a Masters degree in Education and a
Bachelors degree in History. This is my 8th
year working in K-8 education. I previously
taught 3rd grade, 5th grade, Middle School
Social Studies, and Sixth Grade
Self-Contained. I have endorsements as a
K-5 Reading Teacher, Middle School Reading
Teacher as well as endorsements as a
Middle School Social Studies and ELA
Teacher. In addition to my 8 years of K-8
teaching experience I have also worked in
both higher education and early education.
I’m excited to be teaching the 3rd Grade
Monolingual Class this year!
Personal Bio
When I’m not at work I enjoy spending time
gardening with my two children (9 and 6
years old). I also love craft and DIY projects,
photography, all things Disney and traveling.
How to contact the teacher
The best way to get a hold of me is through
Class Dojo. However, I can also be reached
at the school by phone and by email at
[email protected].
Drucy Palao
Teacher, 4th grade Dual
Professional Bio
My name is Drucy Palao. I have been in the education field for 20 years and an educator for 8 years. I have taught kindergarten, 1, 2, 4, and middle school. My undergraduate is in Liberal Arts from Northeastern Illinois University. Currently, I’m working on a Master’s degree in Elementary Education through Grand Canyon.
Personal Bio
I was born and raised in Guatemala. I have two daughters and two grandchildren. I enjoy music and dancing, also knitting and crochet
How to contact the teacher
You can reach me by my email address: [email protected], Class Dojo and Google classroom.
Teresa Winters
Teacher, 4th grade
Professional Bio
My name is Teresa Winters. I have been an educator for 15 years. I have taught grades 1,2,3,4,6,7,8, STEM, ART, and Music. My undergraduate degree is in Business Management from Barat College in Lake Forest, IL. My teaching certification was completed at Quincy University. Currently, I’m working on a master's degree in elementary education through North Park University.
Personal Bio
I grew up in North Chicago and still live there. I have 4 nieces and 3 nephews that I adore. I enjoy crafting, cooking, traveling, and learning new things.
How to contact the teacher
I can be reached at my email address:
[email protected] or by text or phone at:
(847) 691-4083.
Mrs. Gallanis-Suchard
Educator, Fifth Grade
Professional Bio
I am honored to be a teacher at Oakdale Elementary School. In 2009, I graduated Magna Cum Laude from Northeastern Illinois University where I took my studies in child development very seriously. I was awarded A Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education with a minor’s degree in Arts. At Northeastern Illinois University, I completed additional studies and endorsed in additional expertise certifications for teaching science, Language Arts, middle school curriculum, and art.
During my fourteen years of teaching experience, I have had many wonderful opportunities to teach many diverse groups of learners ranging from Pre-K 3 to ninth grades. During my teaching practice, I continued my studies to stay current with up-to-date techniques and accomplished additional teaching certifications through Harvard University Graduate School of Education.
Personal Bio
Favorite Sports: Soccer and swimming
Favorite hobbies: Drawing, reading, writing, scientific experiments, traveling, bicycling, playing musical instruments, and board games
Favorite animal type: Wildcats
Favorite teacher gifts: Classroom decor/supplies, coffee mugs, plants, chocolate, and apples
How to contact the teacher
Class Dojo
Main office: (224) 303-1860 *Room 201
*Email: [email protected]
Jasson Aponte
5th Grade Dual Language Teacher
Professional Bio
-
Educational Background
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Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Level English (Specialized in ESL)
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Electrical Engineering credit work
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Political Sciences credit work
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Have been a licensed teacher for 8 years and a private tutor for 16 in the Math, Social Sciences, English, Spanish and Art fields.
Personal Bio
My name is Jasson Aponte Delgado and I am a teacher in title and heart. I have spent the better part of my life engaging with students from Elementary level to Undergraduate level with a mission to improve and develop everyone under my tutelage.
How to contact the teacher
You may contact me by:
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Email - [email protected]
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Class Dojo
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Text through 787-246-7799
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Classroom Tel. (224) 303-1860 Ext. 1875
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: [email protected] Telephone Number (312) 477-6747
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
[email protected]
Gladys Flores
DL, Resource Teacher
Professional Bio
I am a graduate of Bachelor in Elementary Education Major in Special Education at University of San Jose-Recoletos, Philippines.
I had my Master Degree in Early Childhood Education at Cebu Technological University, Philippines.
Personal Bio
A dedicated educator who supports Oakdale Elementary School children' best learning. My aim is to shape a student who will contribute to character development, foster compassion and empathy, and become one of the world's most competitive individuals in the future. In addition to teaching, I enjoy playing volleyball and other sports. I enjoy singing, dancing, and playing the guitar and ukulele, among other instruments.
How to contact the teacher
[email protected]
Mr. G
P.E. Teacher, K-5
Professional Bio
I have a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education from UPRM (1995-2000), Master's Degree in Physical Education with a concentration in Curriculum Design and Teaching in Physical Education (2000-2003); Master’s Degree Bilingual Education (June 2023-online) at Interamerican University of Puerto Rico at Aguadilla; and approved 42 credits Doctorate in Education-Curriculum and Teaching at Interamerican University of Puerto Rico, San Germán Campus (in process).
I have 22 years of experience as a teacher, 16 of which have been in the educational system in Puerto Rico (DEPR) and 6 in Waukegan; also 27 years coaching sports. In addition, I serve as a coach in sports, I belong to several work committees like, PBIS, ILT; Bus and Recess duties and more.
Personal Bio
I am Edwin R. Godén Aponte. I was born in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico. I'm the oldest of four brothers and I was raised by my grandma and two aunt’s. I have a daughter, her name is Likza and she lives in Puerto Rico with her mother. I also have a cat, her name is Bella. My favorite sports are basketball, bowling and fishing; and I love star wars.
How to contact the teacher
[email protected]
Google Classroom Code: 2r2zayw