My name is Rita Guzman Ed.D. I am originally from Joliet where I continue to reside. I graduated from the University of St. Francis in 2002 with a bachelor’s degree in Education. I continued my education at National-Louis University and received an endorsement in Bilingual and English as a Second Language. I then returned to USF to pursue a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and a second master’s degree specializing in Differentiated Instruction with a minor in Special Education. I returned to pursue a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership.

I've been working in Valley View School District 365U for the past fifteen years. I taught first grade bilingual and K-5 ESL. I can honestly say that I love my current position as assistant principal. However, I must admit that at times I do miss having my own classroom. I enjoyed being an ESL teacher because it allowed me to work with students who spoke 37 different languages and it enabled me to learn more about individual cultures and customs.

When I am not working I most enjoy simply spending time with my family. My wonderful family includes my husband of 22 years, Alex, and our two beautiful daughters. Our sixteen year old, Brittney, is currently in 12th grade and our active eleven year old, Lindsey, is in seventh grade. I enjoy listening to my daughters tell me about their day and going to the movies.