Melissa is a professor at the College of DuPage, with a total of 12 years experience teaching students from diverse backgrounds. She is a member and leader of the College of DuPage Faculty Association, an IEA affiliate. Melissa believes that our children’s education and the working conditions of teachers and staff are completely intertwined, and will advocate for policies that benefit both as she has done for her higher ed students and colleagues.

Alejandra is an accomplished teacher, community leader and public school administrator, who has dedicated her life to empowering students, families and her community. She currently serves as an Assistant Principal where she has brought her passion for instruction, parent engagement and student achievement to her role. Alejandra is the co-founder of Berwyn’s Little Free Library Initiative and has three brilliant children who all attend District 98 schools and are active in clubs, sports and extracurricular activities.