Esmeralda M.

Background

About Esmeralda M.

My deep love and respect for this earth and all beings on it is what drives my work. I am a proud first-generation Mexican-American, fluent in both English and Spanish, from the south-west side of Chicago. With a background in conservation biology and developmental psychology, I am continuously trying to work within the intersection of ecology, community, and education.Maintaining a progressive educational philosophy, I lead from a student-first mentality. Understanding youth development and the impact of psycho-social differences across cultures has allowed me to meet our beautifully diverse Chicago youth where they're at. I have worked towards bridging the gap between environmental/food justice and science comprehension amongst the Chicago youth population. From addressing access inequalities to things like green spaces, fresh produce, and clean air throughout the city of Chicago, to overall science and ecological education in the classroom.