About Mrs. Chrsytall

I can't wait to get to know all of you, but before I do, I thought you might want to know a little bit about me :)

The 2014/15 school year will be my tenth year teaching. I have spent all of those years in Oak Park teaching 6th grade at Julian Middle School. I have primarily taught math but most years I taught Reading/LA or science in addition. This will be my first year at an elementary school and I am beyond excited for it. I truly love teaching and am ready to transition to the elementary school setting. 

The team of students I taught at Julian last year, team 6-3.

A few of my former students working on a math project.

I live in Lakeview on the north side of Chicago with my husband, Doug. When I have free time, I am outside! I love going to the beach, riding my bike, running, and gardening in my little urban garden. Now being outside in the winter is a different story for me. In winter I hibernate and really enjoy it too.

My husband and I on our cold, beautiful winter wedding day!

Running the Shamrock Shuffle 8K with another Oak Park teacher, Mrs.Welchko. 

A little view of my urban garden. 

 Traveling is also a priority in my life. Every trip, near or far, opens my eyes to cultures and perspectives all over the world. Not only is travel fun and relaxing, but it is life changing. “I am not the same having seen the moon shine on the other side of the world.” ― Mary Anne Radmacher. Below are a few photos from my favorite countries that I visited just last year! 

My husband and I in Geelong, Australia.

Prague, Czech Republic

Auckland, New Zealand on top of Mount Eden

Copenhagen, Denmark- this is probably my favorite city of all I've been to.

I grew up in Oak Lawn, a south suburb of Chicago.  Actually my parents still live in my childhood home, so I love going back to visit.  I have one older brother who lives in Indiana now, but it's a quick drive to see him. 

Throw Back- my brother and I back in the day! 

My parents, husband and mother-in-law. 

My absolute favorite grade growing up was fourth grade with Mrs. Bell (this makes me even more excited to have the opportunity to teach fourth grade- my favorite grade).  Math has always been my favorite subject.  I have always enjoyed completing word problems that were difficult and took a long time. I love the feeling of satisfaction when I FINALLY get it and I even more love that there is one right answer.  I think perseverance is the most important trait to have in math (don't worry- we will learn a lot about perseverance this year!!). However, although I love math, reading for pleasure is one of my favorite past times.

I hope this helped you learn a little bit more about me!