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About Us
About Us
Jen Cotovsky
Phone: 815.754.1310
Juniors
I received my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with a minor in Dance from Millikin University. I then received my Master's Degree from Aurora University, specializing in School Social Work.
I have had the honor and privilege of working with students and their families since 2000. While working on my Master's, I worked as a Teaching Assistant at the high school level. I completed my internship at a middle school in the same district. I have worked in every building level from Preschool to High School throughout my 18 year career as a School Social Worker. I have also had the opportunity to coach two different dance teams, 7th grade volleyball, freshman volleyball, as well as act as an advisor for Student Council.
I have a wonderful family that I am very proud of. My husband, my 8-year-old son, and our dog. We love to spend time together whether it be watching movies or out in nature.
Working at DeKalb High School has been incredibly rewarding! I work in the best department with colleagues who work hard to collaborate and support students and families. I get excited when I see students achieve their goals and reach their full potential. I love being a Barb!
Brenda Monroy
Phone: 815.754.2158
Sophomores, SOAL
I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Aurora University and continued on to receive my Master’s Degree in Social work with a specialization in School Social Work, also from Aurora University. Additionally, I am a Social Work provider with the Early Intervention Program, where I work with children from birth to age three and support their families.
I have worked with students from kindergarten through age 22 and have been working within the educational setting for a little over 10 years. I also have firsthand personal experience navigating school support systems with my own children, which has strengthened my understanding of the challenges families may face. I am passionate about advocating for students and their families and helping them access the support and resources they need to thrive.
Outside of school I enjoy listening to music of all kinds, painting, and time with family.
My goal at Dekalb High School is to collaborate closely with students and families to provide a strong system of support, ensuring they feel heard, understood, and supported. I strive to help students and families overcome obstacles, connect with needed resources, and find success both in school and beyond.
Go BARBS!
Kevin Herrera
Phone: 815.754.1738
Target Program, ELL
I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology at the University of Illinois-Chicago in 2015. I later began attending Aurora University where I received my Masters in Social Work, with a specialization in school social work in 2019.
I have worked with children and adolescents in various settings including a residential facility, therapeutic day-school, mental-health crisis responses, and since 2019, Dekalb High School!
I am most proud of being the child of two immigrant parents from El Salvador and being the first in my family to receive a college degree!
My goal for DHS is to be a constant support for my students and their families as we work as a team to help them succeed at school and prepare them for future life-success.
Noah Mosner
Phone: 815.754.2171
Freshman, Life Skills
I received my Bachelors degree in Social Work with a specialization in Addictions Counseling from Aurora University in 2018. I returned to Aurora University immediately after graduating and began working on my Masters Degree in School Social Work. (Mr. Herrera and I were classmates!)
I have worked with students at every grade level and have been working in school environments since I was in High School.
I have three cats that are the light of my life!
My goal for working at DHS has been to collaboratively work with students to recognize their potential and use it to their advantage.
Kirstie Ruckoldt
Phone:
815.754.8220
Seniors, Beyond One Barb Transition
I have been working in the field of education in various degrees for quite some time! After receiving my Bachelor’s of Social Work from Illinois State University (Go Redbirds!), I attended Aurora University and received my Master’s of Social Work with my focus on the school setting. Since that time, I have worked with students ranging from ages 3-18, from preschool to high school. I am so thankful for each opportunity I have been given in my career, especially when DeKalb School District hired me in 2018.
Seeing students reach their goals is incredibly rewarding and makes me so happy to be a Barb!
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