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For thirty years, Ray Salazar has been a Chicago Public Schools educator dedicated to amplifying student voice.

He joined Hancock in 2011 and teaches senior English and Dual-Credit class.  For years, he's also taught Journalism, the class that produces the school newspaper.  See past issues here.

In 2025, his AP English Language students set a Hancock record with 85% of them earning a 3 or higher on the College Board exam.

From 2018 to 2024, he coached the school's award-winning debate team. 

He also sponsored an after-school podcast club.  Listen to their segments on Sound Cloud.

Mr. Salazar earned his B.A. in English & Secondary Education and M.A. in Writing with distinction from DePaul University. In 2009, he earned National Board Certification and achieved renewal in 2019.

In 2017, thanks to a former student, Mr. Salazar received a Distinguished Secondary Teacher Award from Northwestern University.

Outside of Hancock, Mr. Salazar wrote about education and Latino issues at the White Rhino on ChicagoNow for eleven years.  His writing earned local and national recognition.

His writing also aired on National Public Radio and Chicago Public Radio many times and appeared in the Chicago Tribune.  He's also contributed to NPR's Latino USA and Latino Rebels.

A first-generation college grad, Mr. Salazar grew up in Little Village and remains a proud Southwest side resident.  He's a father to a Chicago Public Schools graduate and a student.  

He enjoys powerlifting and holds state records in the squat, bench, and deadlift for his age group and weight class.