Ms. Barajas

Kindergarten Teacher

My name is Lisandra Barajas but most of my family and friends call me Lis. I am born and raised in Chicago, but my mother and father are from Mexico, which makes me a Mexican-American. I have a lovely husband who I’ve been married to for 6 years. I have no children but I do have a niece and nephew who live with me at home. I also have two wonderful dogs that I love very much. A german shepard our oldest dog named Tyson and a goldendoodle named Sofia. I’m a proud first generation graduate. I have a masters in Early Childhood Education and a Bilingual endorsement. I’ve worked at Prescott for 9 years and this will be my 4th year as a kindergarten teacher.

Hopes & Dreams for . . . 

Students: My hopes and dreams for my students this year is to see them grow in every way possible within their development. I want them to enjoy their school year, get to meet new friends, make positive relationships, learn new ways to communicate, and learn new skills throughout their learning. I hope that my students learn to identify their feelings and needs throughout the school year to find age appropriate ways to problem solve within their academic learning, peers, and others.

Colleagues: My hopes and dreams for my colleagues is to build community within the school as educators. For all my colleagues I hope that we have a wonderful school year which will allow us to continue to grow and connect as educators.

Self: My hopes and dreams for myself this school year is to continue to grow as an educator. I hope to finish my ESL/ Bilingual courses and continue to grow with using restorative practices.

Ms. Austria

Kindergarten Teacher

Hello, My name is Ms. Austria. This is my 3rd year at Prescott and 2nd year teaching kindergarten. I went to DePaul University and received a degree in Communication and Media Studies. I then attended Erikson Institute and graduated with my Masters in Early Childhood Education in 2022. Before teaching I was a freelance graphic designer, but grew up in the education and working with children. I was born and raised in Chicago and love finding new places to try. I also enjoy spending my free time with friends and family, reading, traveling, or at concerts.

Hopes & Dreams for . . . 

Students: I hope that my students feel safe in their environment and are eager to learn and explore. I hope that they gain confidence in trying new things and problem solving independently. 

Colleagues: I hope to find more opportunities to collaborate with colleagues throughout the building outside of PD.
Self: I hope to continue to collaborate with my team to explore new ideas and try new things.