Shawna has been with Mulberry School as our Administrative Assistant & Bookkeeper since 2016. She lives with her husband David and their two beautiful daughters, Tycee and Sabree. On the sidelines, David and Shawna are owners and operators of a local construction business. Her favorite color is teal, and they are die hard Dallas Cowboys and Illini fans! Her hobbies are spending time with family and friends, traveling, swimming, and playing with their rescue dogs, Harmonee & Lillee.
Ms. Shawna, Non-Profit Director
Ms. Sharon, Preschool Teacher
Sharon joined the Mulberry family in 2017. This year she teaches the 5 full day a week preschool class. Sharon has a degree in Elementary Education from Illinois Benedictine University. She enjoys spending time with her family (husband: Brian and 2 children, Austin and Emma). In her free time she enjoys being outdoors, hiking, gardening, and hanging out with family and friends. Sharon loves to travel and is a life long Cubs fan!
Ms. Zarina, First/Second & Third Grade Teacher
Zarina joined the Mulberry School family in 2016. She holds a degree in Elementary Education from Illinois State, with endorsements in two sciences, language arts, and social studies. Before earning her education degree, Zarina received an M.A. in Literature and Creative Writing, also from ISU, and spent several years teaching at Illinois Wesleyan. Since becoming a licensed teacher, she has worked in local school districts as a special education paraprofessional, a substitute teacher, and a long-term leave replacement teacher. She is also an award-winning writer, with two honors from the Illinois Arts Council, and is a children’s media reviewer for Parents’ Choice Foundation.
Outside of school, Zarina enjoys spending time with her family and volunteering for her children’s music and dance activities. She loves reading, writing, traveling, and cooking, but nurturing children brings her the greatest joy.
Ms. Colette, Morning PreK Teacher & Academic Coordinator
Colette has been with Mulberry School since 2000. She teaches the morning half day PreK class. In 2002, Colette was a Girl Scout Teacher of the Year Nominee. Colette is a graduate of Illinois State University where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education. After school and during the summer Colette works at Dr. Burgess’ Dental Office. She is a big sports fan, loving the Green Bay Packers and St. Louis Cardinals.
In her spare time, Colette enjoys spending time with her family and friends, riding her bike, working around the house, Zumba, and traveling.