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Building Administration

Morton Freshman Center Administrators

At Morton Freshman Center, our mission is to create a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all students, staff, and educators. Meet the dedicated Morton Freshman Center administrative team—committed to delivering the highest quality education and helping every student succeed. Together, they lead with purpose, foster a culture of respect and achievement, and work in partnership with families and the community to ensure student growth. Get to know the leaders who make Morton Freshman Center a place where students thrive.

Eric Ramirez

Morton Freshman Center Principal

I am a proud Morton East Graduate and super excited to be part of the Morton Family. I’ve worked at Morton as a teacher for five years and as Dean/Lead Dean for eight years before becoming an Assistant Principal at the Freshman Center.  As Principal, I strive to continue to set high expectations for our student body. I am excited to continue to enhance our supports and systems for our students to become productive members of society.  I enjoy working with students and parents to obtain a common goal of our students succeeding. I am a firm believer that when schools and communities work together it sends the message that failure is not option.

Degrees and Certifications

  • Bachelor's in Secondary Education, Spanish. Minor in Mathematics

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Arianna Chavez

Assistant Principal of Operations and Instruction

I am proud to serve as the Assistant Principal of Operations and Instruction at Morton Freshman Center. This year marks my eleventh year in education and my sixth year serving the Morton community. During my time in District 201, I have had the privilege of serving in several leadership roles, including Dean of Students, Biliteracy Coordinator, and Assistant Principal of Student Activities and Assessment. Prior to joining District 201, I spent five years teaching in Cicero School District 99.

As an educational leader, I am committed to helping all students reach their full potential and preparing them for success beyond high school. Serving the Cicero community is a true honor, and I am proud to support District 201's mission: Every Student Succeeds.

Degrees and Certifications

  • Ph.D. in Educational Leadership (in progress), DePaul University
  • M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, DePaul University
  • B.Ed. in Elementary Education (Spanish Minor), DePaul University
  • ESL Endorsement, University of St. Francis

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Jennifer Pustelnik

Assistant Principal of Student Support and Interventions

I am proud to serve the Morton 201 community, where I have dedicated my entire educational career. Throughout my journey as a Social Science teacher, BARR Coordinator, and Dean, I have collaborated with students, families, staff, and community partners to create meaningful opportunities for growth and success.

In my role as Assistant Principal of Student Services, I am committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and student-centered environment. I will continue to partner with all stakeholders to remove barriers, promote equity, and ensure that every student has the resources and encouragement needed to thrive. Guided by the mission of Morton 201, Every Student Succeeds, I will work to strengthen programs and services that prepare students for academic achievement, personal development, and lifelong success.

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Benjamin Dobes

Dean of Students

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Linda Demro

Special Education Coordinator

Hello, my name is Linda Demro and I am the Special Education Coordinator here at Morton Freshman Center. This is my 3rd year at Morton and I absolutely love being part of this district. I have over 21 years of experience in special education, including 17 years as a special education teacher and 6 years in special education administration. You will see me at your child’s IEP meetings, open house, and conferences. I am here to help and support you, so please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. I look forward to collaborating with all of our parents and guardians of special education students.

Degrees and Certifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree from Chicago State University
  • Master’s Degree from Governors State University

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Bethany Costello-Stebleton

Teacher Appraisal Specialist

Hello, my name is Bethany Costello-Stebelton, and I am the Teacher Appraisal Specialist at Morton Freshman Center. This is my first year with the District, and I am very excited to be on the team! I have been an educator for over 20 years and a school administrator for four. Prior to coming to Morton, I worked at De La Salle Institute in Chicago.

As the Teacher Appraisal Specialist, I provide teachers and staff with feedback that supports them in developing as professionals, thereby ensuring that students at Morton receive an excellent education. 

Degrees and Certifications

  • Bachelors in English and French from Purdue University
  • Masters in Literature from Loyola University, Chicago 
  • Masters in Teaching Language Arts from Northeastern Illinois University
  • Masters in Educational Leadership from Concordia University, Chicago 

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Monk Gragnani

Security Supervisor

A proud Morton East alum, I’ve been part of the Morton Family for seven years, most recently as Assistant Security Supervisor at the East Campus.

Presently Head of Security at the Freshman Center, I’m proud to lead my security team in keeping our school safe and welcoming for all students and staff while supporting a positive learning experience.

Once a Mustang, Always a Mustang!

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