Lakeview teacher Melitza Rodriguez selected as 'Educator of the Year'

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Friends of the Chicago River name Melitza Rodriguez as its "Educator of the Year."

RELATED: Teacher at LEARN South Chicago charter school surprised with Golden Apple award

The Northwestern University graduate teaches at Louis Nettelhorst Elementary in the Lakeview neighborhood.

RELATED: Chicago teacher at Carl Von Linne Elementary surprised with Golden Apple award

Rodriguez participates in the Chicago River Schools Network Friends flagship education program. She often uses the Chicago River as a teaching tool to help students learn science, history and writing. Her kids have learned about Native Americans, the animal and plants that live in and along the river and more.