Who We Are

Tonya Hammaker, Principal

Dear Tubman Family,

It is with great enthusiasm that I extend my warmest welcome to each and every one of you as the new Principal of Tubman Elementary School. I am truly honored and thrilled to join this vibrant and thriving community.

While I may be new to Tubman, I bring with me a wealth of experience after having served as an IB Principal for 11 years in Chicago’s Little Village community. I am confident that the knowledge, insights, and passion I have gained over the years will enable me to contribute positively to the Tubman community.

My vision for Tubman is to lead in a way that ensures a safe, supportive, equitable, and rigorous environment for our students. This vision is not just a statement; it is a commitment to each child who walks through our doors. It is a pledge to provide an education that nurtures not only their minds but also their hearts.

As we embark on this journey together, I want to assure you that my door is always open. I value open and transparent communication and believe that together, we can achieve great things for our students. Your insights, feedback, and ideas are not only welcomed but are integral to our collective success.

In the coming weeks and months, I look forward to getting to know each of you better, understanding the unique strengths and aspirations of our students, and building upon the wonderful traditions and accomplishments of Tubman Elementary.

I firmly believe that our school is more than just a place of learning; it is a community – a family. Together, we will create an environment where every child feels safe, supported, and encouraged to reach for the stars. We will foster an atmosphere of equity and inclusion that celebrates the diversity of our student body.

I am excited about the journey ahead and the incredible opportunities we have to make a positive impact on the lives of our students. Together, we will empower them to become the best versions of themselves, academically and personally.

Once again, I extend my warmest welcome to you all. Let us embark on this exciting adventure together, with a shared commitment to the success and well-being of our students.

If you have any questions, thoughts, or simply want to introduce yourself, please feel free to reach out to me at thammaker@cps.edu or (773) 534-5725. I am here to serve and support you.

Here's to a fantastic academic year filled with growth, achievement, and joy.

Sincerely,

Principal Hammaker

Qiana Wiley, Assistant Principal

Greetings Tubman Community,

It is with excitement and gratitude that I write this introduction as the Assistant Principal of Tubman Elementary School. I’m honored to serve in this capacity. I look forward to building relationships, supporting, and collaborating with the Tubman community.

For the past 17 years, I have served families and students at CPS. I worked as a Middle School teacher, IB Coordinator and Acting Assistant Principal. I am an alumna of Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, Governors State University and DePaul University.

My philosophy is that every student should have access to culturally relevant resources that catapult their academic success. I am committed to supporting the needs of all students while being equitable and inclusive. I cannot wait to celebrate our collective success during this school year as a community.

I look forward to meeting everyone. My door will always be open to you. Please feel
free to contact me at qrwiley-ruff@cps.edu.

Kind Regards,
Qiana Wiley