Our Teacher Leaders

Before becoming a teacher, Mary worked in a few research labs studying topics ranging from environmental pressures on plants to developing neurons and their migration patterns during embryonic development. Mary enjoys the challenge of teaching science especially when classes focus on creative problem solving. She teaches chemistry and biotech and loves knitting, gardening and reading in her spare time.

During her tenure, Suzanne has taught everything from chemistry and earth science to co-taught freshman biology.  Prior to her teaching career, Suzanne worked in numerous research labs investigating topics ranging from the effects of SSRI’s on various cell-signaling pathways to the benefits of exercise on the immune system. Suzanne is also a member of the Bio-Link Community, which is a network of professionals committed to developing biotechnology programs at all levels of education and preparing students for the workforce.

Nina Hike has worked in Chicago Public Schools for more than 25 years as a science teacher, teacher leader, and department chair. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology with a minor in chemistry from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a Secondary Education, M.Ed from DePaul University. Nina is a doctoral student at the University of Illinois at Chicago in science education. Nina is a 2021 Illinois finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching (PAEMST).

Christina has taught a wide scope of science classes including biology, forensic science, earth/space science, and environmental science. Over the past few years, Christina has been working to strengthen the classroom’s alignment to NGSS while bringing current events and new lab experiences into the class as frequently as possible. She consistently aims to increase engagement for freshman biology students, which is why she’s also looking forward to beginning to lead teacher professional development.

Mr. Torres has been working for over 15 years to introduce students to the STEM fields.  At Walter Payton College Prep, he enjoys teaching AP Biology, but his true passion lies with Honors Biotechnology, a course he designed from the ground up that involves his students in making simple soap to conducting CRISPR experiments, and everything in between. During his summer break, he is either working as a Northwestern University instructor for the Center for Talent Development (CTD) teaching Human Evolution & Epidemiology and Human Anatomy & Physiology courses, or participating in a summer research experience for teachers (RET) program at NU.  Mr. Torres has been recognized for his contributions to education by the University of Chicago (2022) and Stanford University (2017) with the “Exceptional Teaching Award.”