Welcome
Hello West Carroll Students, Parents, and Community!
My name is Tracy Kostallari, and I am the 7/8th Grade Resource RoomTeacher. This is my fifth year at West Carroll Middle School and I am so happy to be here. I graduated in 1992 and went on to further my education at Western Illinois University. After graduation, I was hired at Hall High School in Spring Valley, Illinois. It was a very exciting time for me as a young teacher because I coached the Red Devils and while there we went to state in volleyball, football, and basketball! Next, I spent fifteen years at Pearl City Schools where I taught junior high and high school special education classes. I earned my master’s degree From Rockford University in 2010.
I am married (26 years) and have two beautiful kids, two dogs, and a cat. Some of my hobbies include: reading, gardening, cooking, and watching my children play baseball and participate in collegiate equestrian events. I also enjoy nature and am fond of being outside. I love flowers, music, family time, and coffee!
I am super excited to be at West Carroll Middle School and look forward to meeting and working with all of you!
GREETINGS, WEST CARROLL STUDENTS, PARENTS, & COMMUNITY
I am Mary Nolan, WCMS Special Education/EXCEL Teacher. This is technically my 6th year at West Carroll since I was at the Primary for 3 years, had a 2 year hiatus, and then returned to WCMS, with this being my 3rd year here. I’m very much enjoying the change of pace at the middle school as well as the students. I also feel very much at home being back in CUSD 314! I’m genuinely lucky to have the opportunity to work with the staff here. The staff here is so supportive. Having a “work family” that is always willing to help one another is a blessing.
I began my journey into teaching out of high school (way back in 1989) by heading to Northern Illinois University. In 1992, I left college to start a family. Buying a home in Hanover, Illinois (still there!) I worked as a preschool paraprofessional for many years at River Ridge. Once my children were old enough to be ready for college, I went back to school myself at Western Governors University where I completed my Bachelors Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies for teaching grades K-8. It was while substituting at WC that a former Superintendent mentioned that he felt I had a good temperament and ability for teaching special education, so I headed back to WGU for a Masters in Special Education/Behavioral for grades PreK-21.
I enjoy time with my husband, children, and grandchildren as well as fun with my closest friends. Cooking, baking, and drinking coffee are my favorite hobbies.
I look forward to getting to know you and continuing working together for the good of West Carroll and the community! Go Thunder!
"I call my students "MY KIDS" because in our time together they are not just names on a class list; they become a part of my heart.