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.

I began my career in community organizing during my junior year of high school, working days-end to establish a sense of equity in the city of Chicago by way of mentoring disadvantaged youth, assisting struggling families to wraparound services, and pushing legislation that will ultimately liberate our communities that are not only in the city of Chicago, but nationwide. 

Upon completing my AA degree, I began working directly inside the classroom.. I have enjoyed every single day working inside our schools, as it permits me the privilege of being a role model to our youth- Every educational facility I have walked in, I lead with the mindset of “being the person to our students, I wished I had while growing up.”