My name is Laura Novotny.  This is my 24th year teaching, 19th year here at Lester School teaching 1st grade.  I have also taught 2nd grade, ESL, and Reading at other schools.  I earned my Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction through Concordia University in 2013, and have enjoyed taking post-graduate classes ever since. 

I have a husband, John, who owns his own construction company, Prairie Homes and Renovations, and 3 wonderful children: Isabella-age 21, who is a senior at University of Minnesota, Maddi-age 19, who is a freshman at Illinois State University, and Charlie-age 16, who is a junior at Downers Grove North High School.  We also have 2 dogs, 2 cats, & a bunny.  We have lived in Downers Grove for over 23 years.

When I am not busy teaching or raising my kids, I love to read, play pickleball, scrapbook our family photos, go for a run, or compete in triathlons.  I love the outdoors, and enjoy camping with my family whenever possible.