Faces of D47: “I grew up in Palatine and have worn a lot of different hats throughout my life. I’ve been a film critic, a packaging salesman, a special ed teacher in California, and even ran my own online store — which I still do on the side. Teaching was kind of a career change for me, but one I’m really happy I made." "After high school, I received my Bachelor's in Cinema & Photography from Southern Illinois University. I actually worked in the entertainment industry for a while in California. I worked on a show called Your Big Break, which was kind of a precursor to American Idol. The coolest part was being backstage at the studio. I’d see people like Britney Spears or George from Seinfeld walking around. I didn’t have a glamorous job, but it was fun just to be there." "When I came back to Illinois, I tried sales for a few years and didn't feel it was a good fit for me. Eventually, I found my way back to teaching. I went back to school at Northern Illinois University and earned my Master’s in Elementary Education, later getting certified in ELA and social studies. This is my fourth year teaching sixth grade language arts and social studies here, and I love it. This grade is the sweet spot; they’re more independent than elementary kids but not too cool yet." "I love being up in front of my students. I’ve done a lot of community theatre, so I bring that energy into my classroom. I’m not a cubicle person; I need that daily interaction. My favorite part of teaching is the people, hands down. My classroom is a mix of learning and fun. I have a Pac-Man arcade game I use as an incentive — students can earn time to play it. We do creative writing projects like write-arounds, where they trade papers and continue each other’s stories. I also bring in my love of film and incorporate it into my lessons, when applicable." "I feel really comfortable here and love being at Lundahl; it’s a great community of staff and admin! I’m lucky to work with people I genuinely enjoy being around, and to be doing something that feels like the right fit.” - Patrick Naugle, 6th Grade LA/SS Teacher, Lundahl
