“To empower students of all backgrounds and learning styles to communicate effectively, read for pleasure and school, become strong critical thinkers, and find joy in lifelong learning.”
Elizabeth Darovic is a seasoned and deeply respected educator whose professional journey spans over three decades in academia, spanning high schools, universities, correctional education, and curriculum development. With a deep passion for fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking, Elizabeth has dedicated her life to ensuring that learners from all walks of life experience the joy of education in a personalized, inclusive, and effective manner.
Her academic foundation is as distinguished as her teaching career. Elizabeth holds a B.A. in English from Loyola University Chicago, an M.A. in English Literature and Language before 1525 from King’s College, University of London, and an M.Ed. in Secondary Education from DePaul University. These academic milestones laid the groundwork for her scholarly exploration of literature, writing, and the development of pedagogical strategies that respect neurodiversity, cultural context, and the power of storytelling.
Elizabeth’s teaching experience is both extensive and diverse. She has taught in respected institutions such as DePaul University, City Colleges of Chicago, Columbia College, Loyola University, and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. In these roles, she taught a wide array of courses—rhetoric and composition, literature, Native American history, and more—often designing her own curriculum. Her work has consistently emphasized interdisciplinary learning and the power of the written word in shaping human understanding.
Her more recent work at institutions like Chartwell School and Stevenson School reflects her commitment to social-emotional learning and differentiated instruction. At Chartwell, she taught students with various learning differences, including autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, in courses ranging from American History to Sociology. Her ability to lead project-based learning while building deep, trusting relationships with students is one of her most profound strengths.
Elizabeth is also a published scholar and conference speaker, contributing original research and perspectives in the field of medieval literature. Her work includes her own primary text publication in Arthurian Romances of the Percy Folio and thought-provoking presentations at the International Congress on Medieval Studies. She combines historical depth with a modern-day relevance, reflecting her passion for lifelong inquiry and academic rigor.
Beyond the classroom, Elizabeth has been a creative writing instructor at the California State Penitentiary in Soledad since 2014. There, she facilitates writing workshops for inmates serving life sentences, offering a transformative outlet for expression and rehabilitation. This work exemplifies her belief that education is not confined to traditional settings—it is a force for human dignity and growth.
She is multilingual, speaking French and Spanish in addition to English, and she brings valuable international experience from her time studying in London and living in England. This global awareness informs her inclusive teaching style and broadens her cultural competency—a vital asset in today’s interconnected educational and social systems.
Elizabeth’s credentials are bolstered by a long list of certifications and endorsements from the states of Illinois and California. These include high school English, middle school French and Social Studies, the CLAD certificate, and multiple AP training certifications. She is also trained in critical thinking leadership and social-emotional learning through institutions like the Wright Institute and UC.
Her volunteerism, mentorship, and service as an AP English Literature and Composition reader reflect her ongoing engagement in professional development and academic community service. She thrives at the intersection of literacy, advocacy, and transformative learning.
In all she does, Elizabeth seeks to build environments where students—regardless of age, ability, or background—can discover the power of their own voice, the value of literature, and the tools of analytical thought.
Character:
Elizabeth embodies empathy, perseverance, and purpose. Her work in correctional education and neurodiverse classrooms highlights her integrity and dedication to serving others through inclusive learning.
Knowledge:
With advanced degrees and decades of experience, Elizabeth brings scholarly depth and real-world insight to every role. Her expertise in medieval literature, English pedagogy, and critical thinking is unmatched.
Strategic:
Elizabeth’s ability to design curriculum, adapt teaching for neurodiverse learners, and launch transformative writing programs in unconventional settings speaks to her strategic vision and innovative approach.
Communication:
Whether in the classroom, at a podium, or in print, Elizabeth is a master communicator—articulate, inspiring, and deeply effective in connecting with varied audiences across sectors and backgrounds.
