Thank you for coming to my page. I am Erika Bender or known as Mrs. Bender. I am an English language teacher. I am so excited to teach EL (English Learners) and look forward to an incredible school year of learning, wonder, and FUN! My goal is to help all children grow, explore, and become a lifelong learner! 

I taught EL or ESL in Round Lake for 13 years. I then stayed home for two years to raise my own children, a son and a daughter. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater with a degree in Elementary Education and ESL (EL). I grew up in Beloit, WI, but moved to Illinois right after college. I received my Master's degree in Administration and Leadership from Concordia in River Forest, but choose to teach. My passions are being with my own children, being with my awesome friends, listening to great music, dancing, walking, teaching, chilling, yoga, traveling, laughing, language, and loving life. 

I work at the ELC and WC Petty in District 34. 

Feel free to contact me and get in touch at any time.  847-838-8109

My email is ebender@antioch34.com