John J. Wood 

Background Information
I graduated from Olivet Nazarene University with a B.S. in Human Resource Management.  I have a Master's degree from Concordia University in Education and School Leadership. I began my professional career as a Claim Service Manager for CIGNA Healthcare.  After a successful tenure in corporate America, I decided to change careers to my first love, teaching. I then continued my education at Governors State University successfully completing an Education Certification Program and receiving a Type 03 Certificate (K-9) with Middle School Endorsements in both Language Arts and Social Studies.  I also hold a Type 75 school administrative certificate. I began my professional teaching career at General George Patton School District #133 in Riverdale.  I taught at Patton School for three years in their Middle School, grades 6 to 8.  Additionally, I taught 3rd and 4th grade Math, and 6th to 8th grade reading in Patton's after school programs. I have also taught both in the IL State Summer Bridges Reading Program, 6th grade, and Title 1 sponsored Summer School Reading and Math Program, 5th grade.  This year I relocated and changed school districts teaching 6th - 8th grade Social Studies at Laraway School in Joliet.