Susan Custer

Ms. Custer brings over 20 years of experience in Chicago’s independent schools as a classroom teacher, program developer, and most recently as Assistant Director in Pre-Nursery at the British School of Chicago. Holding a degree in Psychology and Child Development, her approach is rooted in the Reggio Emilia philosophy—empowering children through authentic, hands-on, student-led investigation. On any given day, you’ll find her right on the floor learning and creating alongside the children (with specialties like preschool art and woodshop!) or joyfully leading a song story. Outside the classroom, Ms. Custer volunteers with the Chicago Bird Collision Monitors and has an endless collection of rescue tales. Be sure to ask her about rescuing a bald eagle or saving adorable ducklings from a Kohl’s department store rooftop!