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.