“I love the little students. They bring so much joy to me and I love teaching them because when they catch on to what they’re learning… I see that ‘aha’ moment and I’m like, ‘Wow, I’m really making a difference!’” -Gabriella Fernandez, kindergarten teacher at Daniel Burnham Elementary School 

More than 20 years ago, Cicero native Gabriella Fernandez began working in District 99 as a school clerk. After spending a few years working with the Illinois State Board of Education afterward, she realized that more than ever, giving back to children as an educator would mean the world to her — so she completed her degree and came back to District 99 to work as a teacher.

At January's Board of Education meeting, she was recognized as one of D99's Very Own for her outstanding dedication to her craft and to the families of Cicero.

Watch her story here: