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About Jennifer
Jennifer has been a life-long resident of Will County. She lives in Shorewood with her husband Mike, who works at Commonwealth Edison (IBEW Local 15) and two children, Elise (9) and Zackry (7). Jennifer is the middle child of Joe and Gerri Bertino’s seven children. Both her parents are life-long residents of Joliet and five of the siblings reside in Will County. Her father owned and operated a service station for over 50 years.
After attending Illinois State University, graduating with a B.S. in Criminal Justice Sciences and a minor in Psychology, Jennifer continued her education at University of St. Francis earning her secondary teaching certificate, majoring in History. While earning her M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction (University of St. Francis) and Type 75/Administration Certificate (Lewis University), Jennifer worked at Providence Catholic High School. Her first administration position was in New Lenox Grade School District 122 as an assistant principal at Nelson Prairie and Nelson Ridge Schools. During this time, Jennifer also taught evening classes for aspiring teachers at Joliet Junior College. After leaving New Lenox, Jennifer was hired as the principal of Channahon Junior High School. During this period she earned her Superintendent’s Endorsement (Loyola University) and began working as an adjunct for the University of St. Francis and Olivet Nazerene. Jennifer earned her doctorate at Loyola University in 2006, with a focus on curriculum and instruction and concentrations in leadership and finance.
Jennifer is a member of St. Paul the Apostle Church, chair and coordinating member of the Troy Educational Foundation, vice president of Beta Rho, member of Zonta International and Girl Scout troop leader. She has earned the Key Community Award from Delat Kappa Gamma and Outstanding Career Achievment Award from Joliet Catholic Academy.