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 children with autism 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 10 year old son.

Alma Gomez was born in Puerto Rico and grew up in various cities due to her father being in the military. She received her BA in Communications from The University of Tampa and has just finished her Master’s in Educational Innovation & Leadership from St. Edward’s University. During her nine years in Tampa, FL, Alma began her career in student administration and social media marketing for various businesses including The University of Tampa Dining Services. After a very hot nine years in Florida, Alma was ready for a change and moved to Chicago with her little sister! Education and student development are her passions, so it was a perfect match to join the City Elementary team. As Assistant Head of School she assists with multiple areas such as admissions, marketing, outreach and more! In her spare time, Alma loves attending neighborhood events in the city of Chicago especially those associated with her Latina heritage. Residing in Hyde Park, you can also find her at the local coffee shops trying all the seasonal coffee flavors. 

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.

Joel Duran is a native Chicagoan and has been a classroom teacher for 19 years.  Joel received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education and a Masters degree in Educational Leadership both from Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago.  Joel has a myriad of teaching experiences which range from Kindergarten through 8th grade including four years as a theatre arts teacher for Chicago Public Schools in which he produced, directed and choreographed school musicals such as Wizard of Oz and SchoolHouse Rock.  Joel’s classroom philosophy is embracing the whole child with care, connection and communication.  Chicago pizza loves him as do french fries and his favorite color is green. He enjoys banana cream pie, coffee, Polar Water, trips to Mexico, New York and long walks with his dogs.

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, Special Ed 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!