Meet the Team

Yamali (Yah-mah-lee) is a first-generation college graduate and the proud daughter of Mexican immigrants. She earned her degree in Secondary Education with a focus on Teaching History from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Inspired by educators who reflected her identity, she developed a deep love for history and social sciences. In 2006, Yamali began her teaching career at Benito Juarez Community Academy and later spent ten years at Social Justice High School, where she taught African American & Latino History, World Studies, and other social science electives, all while empowering her students through co-learning.

Tamara is an experienced educator who relocated to Chicago in 2019 after more than 20 years in New York City. With 18 years of teaching middle and high school history, government, and politics in the Bronx and East Harlem, she has dedicated her career to fostering meaningful learning experiences. Tamara graduated from Barnard College with a Major in History and a Minor in Education, followed by an Ed.M. in Social Studies Education from Teachers College. She is passionate about collaborating with teachers and enhancing social science education for students.

Alayna (she/her) is an experienced High School Social Science Manager with a strong background in education and a passion for social justice. With a BA in Secondary Education/History and Economics from Michigan State University, Alayna taught for six years in Chicago before joining the CPS Department of Social Science in 2019. As a Social Science Specialist and now as the 6-12 Social Science Manager, she has focused on culturally responsive and inquiry-based education. Alayna holds a Master’s in Teaching and Curriculum with a focus on Sociocultural Perspectives, and she is dedicated to fostering inclusive learning environments that celebrate diverse identities.