“I define myself as a teacher who is determined, responsible, adaptable and compassionate.”
Each of these values lend themselves uniquely to my chosen profession of an educator. As an educator, I possess the ability to carry out various roles a classroom teacher must possess to be a dynamic facilitator. I look for opportunities to be a mentor to students as a means to foster effective student-teacher relationships that assist in creating a safe holding environment for learning and achievement to prosper. I am an effective collaborator by displaying a keen understanding of the responsibility I have to each stakeholder whether they are students, administrators, fellow faculty or guardians.
Building on a community of mutual trust and respect, where everyone has a part in the process that includes both successes and challenges. Encouraging challenging society, systems of thought and continuous questioning as learners and conveyors of knowledge. Respect and empathy are fundamental in this community, understanding that not everything will be easy, agreeable, or immediately understood. Mr. Cook emphasizes learning and growth from these experiences, appreciating the uniqueness of each individual. While not everyone has to agree, respect for one another is crucial.
Education
- Elmhurst College, B.A. in Theatre and Minor in Social Work
- Concordia University Chicago, M.A. in Teaching
- Aurora University, Gifted Education Seminar
- Concordia University Chicago, Gifted Teacher Endorsement
- Aurora University, Master’s in Educational Leadership
Endorsements
- Illinois State Professional Educators License
- Learning Behavior Specialist I
- Language Arts, Social Studies and Theatre/Drama
- Gifted Teacher Endorsement
- English Language Learner Endorsement
Experience
- Joined IPSD 204 in August 2015
- Taught fourth and fifth grade at May Watts Elementary School until the end of the 2022-2023 school year
- Joined Cowlishaw Elementary School as Project Arrow teacher for the start of the 2023-2024 school year
- Previous education experience in Districts 93 and 16
- Taught third grade in District 16
- Student teaching in third grade classroom completed with District 16
