Susan Neil started at PCCS in 2015 as an Instructional Assistant in 5th grade, and in 2016 she became a 5th grade teacher. The emphasis on appreciating our natural world and the strong community support are two of the many reasons she is proud to be a part of the PCCS staff. Graduating from Northwestern University with a degree in Secondary Education, Mrs. Neil taught 7th grade language arts and math in Jacksonville, Florida. While teaching, she pursued elementary certification and now holds both an elementary and secondary license. Most recently, she also worked in early childhood education teaching PreK in Libertyville. Susan and her family have always enjoyed spending time in the many forest preserves of Lake County and she often jogs the trails through Independence Grove. “Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt,” is one of Mrs. Neil’s favorite John Muir quotes. She is looking forward to bringing the classroom outdoors whenever possible and sharing her love of nature with her students.