Lou is a retired elementary school principal and school social worker. He maintains certification as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and continues in part-time employment as a school social worker and special education coordinator. Lou has also held administrative and executive positions in the field of child welfare. Early in his career, Lou was a high school teacher of biology and environmental science. Shortly after his teaching experience, he worked as a research assistant for the Washington, D.C.-based, Center for Science in the Public Interest.

Lou earned his B.A. in Biology and Philosophy from Loyola University Chicago, where he also completed his master’s in Social Work. His Graduate Certificate in Educational Administration is from Northeastern Illinois University. Lou contributes a wealth of knowledge on curriculum, staff development, and educational and child welfare policy. Lou has a strong personal commitment to the value of environmental education and multicultural experiences for young people.