My name is Mr. Joe, and I am a special education teacher in the Chicago Public Schools. I grew up in the Chicagoland area, but I attended Iowa State University to study history education. After graduating, I attended National Louis University in Chicago. I graduated with a Master's Degree in Special Education, and a few years later,  I graduated with an Educational Specialist Degree in Curriculum & Instruction with a specialization in reading. I have been teaching in Chicago since 2017, and I have been tutoring in Chicago for the last few years, specializing in phonics, reading, and writing.As an educator, I believe in building a culture around listening to one another and creating a sense of mutual respect. I also strive to create a culture where students are engaged and want to learn. Outside the classroom, I enjoy trying new restaurants, hiking (especially with my dogs), and attending sporting events.