Anna Hadar

assistant teacher (She/they)

Like many Park West staff members, Anna’s journey to the school feels serendipitous. While working at a children’s toy store in Chicago, Anna began to feel drawn to engaging more directly with children. In the summer of 2022, after noticing a Park West sign in a family’s backyard, she called the school to inquire about substitute teaching opportunities. That fall, she joined the Park West community as a full-time assistant in the 2-day, 3-day, and JK programs. It was here that Anna discovered her passion for early childhood education. 

Her love for teaching led Anna to pursue a Master’s degree in Childhood and Youth studies from the University of Sussex in England, which she completed in 2024. She is now thrilled to rejoin Park West in the JK classroom, where she delights in watching children develop their first friendships, explore their interests, and gain more independence as they navigate their school environment. 

Anna is deeply appreciative of Park West’s individualized approach to working with children, where each child’s unique strengths and needs are met with personalized attention. She especially values the thoughtful selection of classroom materials, the supportive separation process for children and families, and the tailored strategies designed to help each child reach their goals. Anna feels privileged to be part of a community that prioritizes the growth and well-being of every child. 

Outside of school, Anna loves crafting, spending time with loved ones, reading (she is currently expanding her personal collection of children’s books), and exploring Chicago— a city she continues to fall in love with.