This is my 19th year of teaching at Matteson Elementary. I earned my Teaching Degree at Govenor's State University. My major is in Elementary Education with a minor in Biology. I am able to share my passion of Science and Biology with my students during the summer through the district's Summer Enrichment program. My hobbies include nature and architectural black and white photography, travel, exploring in my Jeep, camping in National State Parks, visiting historical sites, gardening, and the arts. I enjoy searching for and collecting vintage children's books as well as rehabbing/repurposing old furniture. I am currently writing/illustrating a series of children's books featuring my late dog Buddy and his adventures. Since my two children are grown and enjoying careers of their own I spend my additional spare time not only with my three dogs (Wild Willow, Dylan, and Lady Bug), but also with the shelter dogs at the South Suburban Humane Society in Chicago Heights. In addition, I also teach classes in Mixed Media Art Journaling to adults who may be experiencing stress and emotional dificulties in their lives, allowing them to express their feelings with a positive, artistic outlet. One of my favorite things to do in the evenings to relax and recharge is to take a drive in my "sunflower yellow" jeep named "Vintage Soul". You might spot me and my Jeep Dog Wild Willow driving across the backroads of Illinois or accidentally through the set of a "Chicago PD" filming in Chicago. You just never know where our journey will lead us, it seems that every jeep ride with Willow is an adventue! tconnolly@sd162.org