Why I like teaching in a Catholic school . . .

January 22, 2004

"In a Catholic school, I have the freedom to incorporate religion into any subject I am teaching. I also like that we can attend Mass each week with the students and see them as active participants in the Mass. Catholic schools allow our students to learn about and share their faith every single day which truly prepares them for a faith-filled life."

Michele Alesch, kindergarten teacher, Spalding Catholic Grade School, Alton/Hospers

"I like teaching in a Catholic school because of the family atmosphere and the unique opportunities for the students. The smaller class sizes allow for more one-on-one with the students. We also have great parent, grandparent and parish support."

Jenn Schnell, 2nd grade teacher, Emmetsburg Catholic School, Emmetsburg

"The majority of those involved with the Catholic schools, including students, parents, and staff, are committed to a higher goal. They view their roles not as a job but a service. Just as the Catholic school works to serve God, they work to serve the Catholic school."

Jeff Podhajsky, algebra and physics teacher at St. Edmond High School, Fort Dodge

"As a graduate of a Catholic school, I chose to teach in a Catholic school because of the increased personal interaction that occurs throughout the entire school - whether it be between students and teachers, between the teachers, or teachers and administration. I also enjoying teaching in the Catholic schools because it provides the opportunity for faculty, students, and staff to intergrate the directions and goals of the Catholic church into our daily activities." 

Marta Saiz, world languages, Gehlen High School, Le Mars

"I enjoy teaching in a Catholic school for a variety of reasons. First of all, I am able to integrate Christian values into the curriculum and life of the school, which distinguishes Catholic schools from others. The students feel pride in our school and are able to express their beliefs even outside of school. Secondly, the teaching environment has a strong emphasis on standards of excellence with quality instruction time, optimum class size, and parental involvement. And last, but not least, my fellow faculty members and the supportive administration are intent on making a difference in the religious and academic lives of our students."

Ruth Eberhard, science instructor, St. Mary's High School, Remsen

"I like teaching in a Catholic school because I can share the love and peace of God openly with students, friends, parents, and staff. Even with denominational differences, I feel accepted, loved and supported. The Christian unity and love that is among our staff is not something you would find at a public school."

Anna Van Gorp, Teacher at St. Patrick School, Sheldon

"I have developed a great appreciation for the parental support teachers receive in the Catholic School System. Parents are greatly appreciative and involved in their children's education. They are the first stepping-stone in building a faith-filled future for our children."

Mandy O'Hern, 1st grade teacher, Holy Cross School-Blessed Sacrament Center, Sioux City

"I love teaching in a Catholic school for many of the obvious reasons: the ability to discuss God daily, the ability to pray daily and the relationships I have with my students. But more importantly is that I am able to share my own faith which allows me to have a strong impact on my students. Being allowed to teach incorporating Gospel values into the curriculum allows me to teach things that my students can't learn from books. I am able to provide my students with a foundation necessary for learning throughout their lives."

Angie Loberg, 3rd grade teacher, Holy Cross-St. Michael's Center, Sioux City

"I love teaching in a Catholic school because I have the opportunity to teach children faith values along with basic curriculum. I can't image being in a classroom where prayer isn't an essential part of every day."

Lisa Weber, 4th grade teacher, Storm Lake St. Mary's