Christopher began his career as special education teacher specializing in autism spectrum disorders 25 years ago. After leaving the classroom, Christopher ran after-school social skills programs for autistic students before developing and leading training for over 12,000 parents and professionals in best practice autism strategies. He started a non-profit in 2006 and has traveled the globe to provide autism training to developing countries. Christopher also founded a tech company that develops apps for individuals with autism that have reached over 500,000 users. At City, Christopher uses his experience and passion to support teachers and students in meeting their fullest potential. In his free time he loves to cook, especially with his sous-chef, his 11 year old son.

Jessica received her BA in Special Education-Learning Disabilities and MA in Curriculum + Instruction from Michigan State University. She’s served as a Learning and Behavior Specialist for 13 years in Chicago and has worked with students of all grade levels in classrooms and in one-on-one settings. Jessica is also a certified Reading Specialist and has been trained in Orton-Gillingham methodology, strategic literacy teaching, and discrete trial teaching as part of Applied Behavior Analysis methodology.
She presents workshops to teachers across the city on topics around systematic reading instruction, Social-Emotional Learning, and evidence based best practices for Diverse Learners.
She wears a passion for literacy on her sleeve and loves to engage with students’ multiple learning modalities to make learning fun for students. Ask her what book she’s currently reading as she loves to spend time at her home in Hyde Park with her family.

Luella Adan received her BA in Art History from the University of Chicago and a Masters of Science in Education at Bank Street College of Education in New York City. She taught at Brooklyn Friends School before taking time off from teaching to raise her son, Samuel (16), who has Down Syndrome.  She moved with her family to Hyde Park in 2014.  This is Luella’s 6th year at City Elementary where she has been creating dynamic learning experiences for all kinds of learners.

Mia discovered the joy of teaching while tutoring and teaching theater in Hyde Park during undergrad at the University of Chicago. Mia then entered the Urban Teachers Education Program. After graduating with a Master in the Art of Teaching, Mia jumped right into working for CPS in the Auburn-Gresham neighborhood teaching kindergarten and first grade.  Mia left the classroom for 4 years to serve as the Director of Teacher programs at WITS (Working in the Schools) which, at the time, had the largest footprint of any literacy organization working in CPS. 

Mia is thrilled to find a teaching-home at City. With a passion for exploratory learning, personalized support, and the belief that real learning and teaching can only happen via honest relationships, she relishes being a part of this vibrant community. When Mia’s not teaching, she can be found in Canaryville reading, gardening, or listening to music with her brilliant 7 year old son, Ethan, and her 100% pure Black Dog, Louie (who is a very good boy). 

Jivan received his BA in Psychology from the University of Chicago and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Psychology. He worked as a science teacher and a behavior technician before joining the City team. At City, Jivan provides classroom support, teaches a 3D modeling class, and creates content for City Elementary social media pages. Outside of work, Jivan is a freelance artist who enjoys participating in art shows and is currently displaying work at a number of cafes around Chicago. He is also the drummer for the local funk band The Front Desk!

Ches divides his life between Music Creation and Special Education as he received his BA in Music Production from Berklee College of Music, and is now pursuing his Master’s in Special Education. His long-term goal is to become a BCBA (Board Certified Behavioral Analyst) who creates IEPs and supervises Behavioral Therapists. At City, Ches supports students by encouraging emotional regulation and teaching self-help skills. As a sibling to people with learning disabilities, diverse learners will always have a place in his heart. When he isn’t working with students, managing recording sessions, or DJing popular venues, he spends his free time fishing. He enjoys exploring Lake Michigan and ponds in Northern Illinois all year; even in the winter!