Meet your 7th/8th Grade team of teachers

Mrs. Grzeskiewicz 

I am a 7th and 8th Language Arts teacher who aims to help my students become better readers and writers. Preparing my students for high school level courses is my first priority. I graduated as an English major from Loyola University Chicago. I have been instructing language arts classes since 1997 and love teaching middle school! Let's make it a wonderful year!  You can contact me at:  mgrzeskiewicz@urs86.org

Mr. Manning

Growing up in Chicago, only a few blocks away, I am so happy to be a teacher at Union Ridge school!  I teach language arts and have been at URS since 2007.  That same year, I graduated from National Louis University with a Masters in Secondary English Education.  My passion is inspiring students to improve their writing and  become better readers!  I am looking forward to another great year! 

Contact me at:

nmanning@urs86.org

Ms. Lenzini, NBCT

This is my 30th year at Union Ridge School.  I have always been fascinated by the scientific world and work toward a deeper understanding and a desire to pass on this knowledge.  I graduated with a degree in science from St. Mary’s University. Teaching is not just a job but a lifelong passion.  Science is not just a subject; it’s a way of thinking.  I strive to inspire students to question , explore, and discover the world around them.  Contact me at clenzini@urs86.org 

Mr. Tenglin

I am a product of North Park University and have the unique experience of teaching English overseas in Budapest, Hungary. Additionally, I instructed middle school students in both art and woodworking before finding a home at Union Ridge School in 2002. I am currently the social studies teacher for both 7th and 8th grade but taught 6th grade for many years. I value my time at Union Ridge and know that I am working with dedicated professionals and instructing students who are ready and willing to learn. You can reach me at: etenglin@urs86.org

Mrs. Norris

I am a 7th and 8th grade Math teacher  who works hard to spread my love of math to my students as well as challenge them to be the best they can be in the math classroom.  I graduated from Loyola University Chicago with degrees in Secondary Education and Mathematics.  I worked in the high school setting for several years before starting at Union Ridge in 2021.  I love working with the wonderful staff and students at URS and look forward to making it a great year with your student!  You can contact me at : bnorris@urs86.org

Ms. O'Brien

Hello!  This is my third year at Union Ridge School, 40th year of teaching.  I have taught all levels of high school mathematics, 7th/8th grade math, and 7th grade science. 

 I have  had the opportunity to inspire students, foster their love for mathematics, and help them build a strong foundation for their future academic and professional endeavors. My role as an educator is essential in shaping the next generation's mathematical knowledge and problem-solving skills.  I hope I have made a significant impact on the lives of countless students and helped them develop essential mathematical skills.      Please feel free to contact me at jobrien@urs86.org

I love working at Union Ridge!

Mr. O'Hara

This is my 1st year at Union Ridge as a language arts teacher and I'm so excited to join the Husky family! I graduated with a Masters in Secondary English Education from DePaul University. I am thrilled to learn alongside you all as we navigate school as rock stars. I strive to create an inclusive environment that fosters engagement and growth from all students. Reach me at dohara@urs86.org. 

Mr. Fitzgerald

This is my 2nd year teaching at Union Ridge. I graduated from Dominican University in 2017. I am grateful to be a part of this welcoming community at the start of my career. I look forward to helping and challenging my students to become a greater version of themselves. I challenge all of my students to hold high expectations for themselves and to build skills that will help them throughout high school and beyond. You can reach me at rfitzgerald@urs86.org

Mr. Scaletta

This is my second year teaching at Union Ridge. I am looking forward to working with my 6th and 7th grade students this year!!! This year will bring many opportunities to learn and grow!!!!

Please feel free to contact me with any questions @ vscaletta1@urs86.org

Mrs. Ligas

I have been at Union Ridge School since 2008. I'm very excited to be teaching Math and Language Arts to 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students. You can contact me at kligas@urs86.org