World Languages
The primary goal of the World Languages department is to get students as close as possible to fluency and language acquisition in the language of their choice. Additionally, to foster a historical and cultural appreciation of the regions in which the languages are spoken. The department also offers clubs for each of their language offerings for students who wish to have fun enrichment experiences in addition to their courses.
World Languages Staff
Jenny Norman is a part of the World Language/Fine Arts/English departments at EPCHS and has been a teacher for 12 years. Mrs. Norman primarily teaches Latin 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, Dual Credit LIT 115, and Academic English 3-4; she also enthusiastically serves as the Varsity Scholastic Bowl Head Coach.. She recently earned the Latin Teacher of the Year award from the Illinois Classical Conference as well as the Coach of the Year from the Illinois High School Scholastic Bowl Coaches Association. Originally from the southern suburbs of Chicago, she attended Bloom Trail High School before earning her Bachelor’s degree in Classics, Master’s degree in Latin Education, and Master’s degree in Educational Policy, Organization, and Leadership: Diversity and Equity in Education, all from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Regarding her passion for EPCHS, she shares, “I love my students. I get to teach curious, intelligent, funny kids who in turn challenge me intellectually. I also love coaching Scholastic Bowl.” Outside of work, she enjoys baking, cooking, LEGO, and reading.
Tracey Otten is a part of the World Languages department and has over 22 years of teaching experience. She primarily teaches both French and Spanish courses at EPCHS. Originally from Morton, Illinois, she attended Morton High School before earning her Bachelor’s degree in French Education from Illinois State University. As a French and Spanish teacher, her goal is to make a positive impact on her students’ lives, inspiring them to have a love for the language and culture. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her family.
Remi Ferguson is a part of the Social Science and World Language departments and is in her first year of teaching at EPCHS. She primarily teaches US History and Spanish 1-2. An EP alumni, she attended EPCHS before earning her Bachelor’s degree in History and Political Science from Eureka College. Ms. Ferguson loves the support and family feel of EPCHS and is excited to pour her Raider Pride into the community that shaped her. She shared, “I always want to be the role model I needed when I walked these halls.” Outside of work, she loves spending time with friends and family, traveling, trying new restaurants, and hanging out with her cat Odessa.