Arlington, Va. - During the annual NCEA convention and convocation April 26-28 in New Orleans, the association will honor sixty individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Catholic education. Five awards will be presented during a special awards dinner on Monday, April 25, just prior to the convention opening. The Emmaus award, given by the Religious Education Department, will be presented Thursday evening during the 35th anniversary banquet of the National Association of Parish Catechetical Directors (NPCD). The Elementary Department awards and the Secondary Department awards will be presented Tuesday evening at their respective award dinners. The Boards Department will give its awards on Wednesday at an awards luncheon.
Four Major Awards Given by the NCEA Board of Directors
Lorraine Ozar, Ph.D., Director, Center for Catholic School Effectiveness, Loyola University, Chicago, Illinois, is the 2011 recipient of the C. Albert Koob Merit Award.
The C. Albert Koob Merit Award is given to an individual or organization that has made a significant contribution to Catholic education at any level – early childhood, elementary, secondary, higher education – or in any educational setting, in one or more of these areas: teaching, administration, parish religious education, research, publication or educational leadership. Such service or contribution should be recognized as having current significance at the national level.
Lorraine Ozar brings a generous spirit, a quick wit and a breath of knowledge to every thing she does. She is a leader in curricula, instruction and educational leadership development. Since 2003, she has directed the Center for Catholic School Effectiveness, where she heads the nation's first center focused on two things – providing professional teacher development for educators in Catholic schools and conducting related field-based research.
Ozar has been a frequent presenter at NCEA conventions and regional meetings. In 2010 she authored a series of articles on leadership for the NCEA Notes newsletter. In March she was instrumental in organizing the Financial Summit co-sponsored by NCEA and Loyola University.
Sr. Mary Paul McCaughey, O.P., Chicago Superintendent of Schools, is the 2011 recipient of the John F. Meyers Award.
The John F. Meyers Award is presented to "someone who has supported Catholic education" in any of the above-mentioned ways or through such contributions as development, public relations, scholarship programs, financial management, or government relations. This award, too, recognizes national impact.
Things changed for Chicago Catholic schools in July 2008 with the arrival of Dominican Sister Mary Paul McCaughey as superintendent of schools. Sister Mary Paul has more than 37 years of experience in Catholic education as a teacher and administrator. She began as superintendent by visiting schools and setting system-wide goals for all 217 elementary schools. These include having qualified, practicing Catholics teaching religion, improving Terra Nova test scores for reading in grade 3 and mathematics in grade 7, stabilizing and then growing enrolment. By her servant leadership, all schools have embraced these goals as a means of improvement.
She inaugurated the first archdiocesan school board with 23 members and has established positive relationships with pastors, vicars and bishops. In the 2010-2011 school year, the archdiocese stabilized enrolment for the first time in many years.
Lisette Allen, Superintendent of Schools, Diocese of Brownsville, Texas, is the 2011 recipient of the Catherine T. McNamee, CSJ Award.
The Catherine T. McNamee, CSJ Award is presented to an individual or school for leadership in promoting a vision of Catholic education that welcomes and serves cultural and economic diversity or serving students with diverse needs.
In the Diocese of Brownsville, Texas, 89 percent of the students in the diocese’s Catholic schools are Hispanic. Because of Allen’s leadership, students and their parents know how welcome they are in the student body and in the parishes. Hispanic students go out to parishes and tell Hispanic families that Catholic schools are open and available to them.
Allen assures the success of students by providing professional development for teachers so they know how to meet the needs of the variety of children, including those with special needs, in their classrooms.
The diocese has seen increases in enrollment and in the number of schools. A new regional Catholic high school, Juan Diego Academy, will open this fall to fill a need for a high school in the upper Rio Grande Valley.
Mr. James Cultrara, Executive Secretary, Council of Catholic School Superintendents, New York State Catholic Conference, Albany, New York, is the 2011 recipient of the Leonard F. DeFiore Parental Choice Advocate Award.
The Leonard F. DeFiore Parental Choice Advocate Award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in promoting full and fair parental choice in education.
As director for education for the New York State Catholic Conference, James Cultrara is a passionate advocate for the rights of parents to choose the best education for their children. Each year he organizes an orientation on key issues for those who deal with public policy. While in Albany he facilitates meetings with legislators and accompanies staff to meetings, but lets the local staff take the lead in conversations.
One of his priorities is presenting a united front as Catholic and other private schools present their messages to legislators. He prepares background information and talking points for New York state bishops, superintendents and others.
In his 14 years as chief lobbyist, he has helped the Catholic Conference make tremendous strides toward full parental choice.
Awards Given by NCEA Departments and the National Catholic Educational Exhibitors (NCEE)
Seminary Department
Most Reverend Gregory Aymond, archbishop of New Orleans, will receive the 2011 Pope John Paul II Seminary Leadership Award on April 25.
The Pope John Paul II Seminary Leadership Award honors the legacy of Pope John Paul II by celebrating the holistic vision of priestly training that he championed in his encyclical, Pastores Dabo Vobis. The award is given for outstanding service on behalf of priestly formation in the United States.
Archbishop Gregory Aymond has a distinguished record of leadership in priestly formation demonstrated throughout his ministry. From 1973 to 1981, he was a professor, business administrator and then rector of St. John Vianney Preparatory Seminary in New Orleans. From 1981 to 1986 he was professor of pastoral theology and homiletics and director of education at Notre Dame Seminary. He then served as president-rector of the seminary from 1986 until 2000, longer than any rector in the seminary’s history. During his tenure, Notre Dame Seminary grew to become the third-largest seminary in the country.
While serving as bishop of the Diocese of Austin from 2000 to 2009, that diocese experienced a threefold increase in the number of seminarians.
Boards Department
John Convey, professor of education at The Catholic University of America, is the 2011 recipient of the O’Neil D’Amour Award.
The O'Neil D'Amour Award is given to an individual in recognition of an outstanding contribution of statewide, regional, national, or international significance to boards of Catholic education. It is presented at the Board Award Luncheon on Wednesday at the NCEA annual convention.
John Convey is former provost at The Catholic University of America, where he is now the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Professor of Education. His professional work focuses on research and strategic planning for Catholic schools. He is currently assisting the Archdiocese of New Orleans with a study of its Catholic schools. He is a frequent consultant and evaluator to many public school systems, and is the author of eight books. In 1997, he and Dr. Regina Haney, executive director of the NCEA Boards Department, co-authored Benchmarks of Excellence: Effective Boards of Catholic Education, a work sparking new thinking regarding boards, councils and commissions of Catholic education.
Outstanding Board Award
Each year the Department of Boards and Councils of Catholic Education recognizes boards, councils, and commissions of Catholic education whose work is outstanding. This award acknowledges outstanding work, encourages excellence, and provides models for other governance groups. Awardees go through a selection process after completing an application/questionnaire. The award ceremony takes place on Wednesday, April 27 at the board awards luncheon and open forum.
Our Lady of Grace School Board
Principal: Marilyn Tomko
Board Chair: Julie Stickler
Highland City, IN
Saint Mary’s Academy Board of Directors
President of School: Christina Friedhoff
Board Chair: Bob Harold
Portland, OR
Saint Irene Catholic School Board
Principal: Maureen White
Board Chair: Jeffrey Schmitz
Warrenville, IL
DeSales Catholic School Board of Trustees
Principal: Dr. Scott Fike
Board Chair: Samuel J. Burruano, Jr.
Lockport, NY
The Charleston Catholic School Board
Principal: Fred McKay
Board Chair: Carol Aust
Charleston, SC
Christ our King Stella Maris School Board
Principal: Jean Moschella
Board Chair: Wendy Albano
Mt. Pleasant, SC
Santa Fe Catholic High School Board of Trustees
President of School: Gwen Coté
Board Chair: Jim Hall
Lakeland, FL
Religious Education Department
Most Reverend Gregory M. Aymond, archbishop of New Orleans, is the recipient of the 2011 Emmaus Award for Excellence in Catechesis. The award is given by the National Association of Parish Catechetical Directors, an organization within the Religious Education Department.
The Emmaus Award for Excellence in Catechesis is given to someone with a national or international reputation for having, over a period of more than ten years, made a significant contribution to the field of Catholic catechesis through writing, publishing, teaching, administration or research.
As Bishop of Austin and now Archbishop of New Orleans, Most Rev. Gregory Aymond understands the value of parish catechesis. He is a staunch advocate for the need for professionally prepared catechists for all levels of faith formation.
While serving as chairman of the board for the National Catholic Educational Association, he was a strong advocate for the work of the National Association of Parish Catechetical Directors (NPCD).
Secondary Schools Department
The Catholic Secondary Education Awards honor Catholic school educators who deserve national recognition and reflect the richness and diversity of American Catholic education. Nominees are persons who have made significant contributions in a variety of rolls including administrators, faculty, staff, campus ministers, board leadership and athletic and co-curricular advisors. There are seven recipients in 2011:
Rick Martin, campus minister, Marist High School, Eugene, Ore.
Rick Martin has spent more than twenty years serving as the Director of Campus Ministry and a teacher of theology at Marist Catholic High School. Mr. Martin has been a strong, unassuming, but highly effective leader, providing four years of strong, innovative theology classes, a four-year retreat program, a Christian service program and a Catholic Culture program, aimed at helping the school grow in its Catholic identity. He developed and leads a Christian Leadership course for selected juniors and seniors. It centers on the spirituality of leadership, using Jesus as a model, and includes activities that help students experience leadership as public action on behalf of the Christian community to bring about the reign of God.
Rev Robert Carroll, O.Carm., President, Salpointe Catholic High School, Tucson, Ariz.
As principal of Mt. Carmel High School in the inner city of Chicago in the 1980s, every aspect of school life improved significantly during his tenure especially Catholic identity, academics, fine arts, technology, and athletics. The school received the Blue Ribbon Award from the U.S. Department of Education in 1984. In the 1990s, as principal at Carmel Catholic High School in Mundelein, Illinois, the school received the Blue Ribbon Award three times during his tenure (1996, 2002, 2007), bringing its total to four. He is the only Principal in the country to have supervised four Blue Ribbon Awards.
William Hambleton, President, La Salle Academy, New York, N.Y.
In 2008, as the first lay president of La Salle Academy, he reached out to the Hispanic community, resulting in the largest incoming freshman class in a decade. Working with the Board of Trustees, he moved the student body four blocks to share space with another school, and leased the high school building to a for-profit school. This arrangement has stabilized La Salle Academy’s finances and allowed it to build an endowment. Mr. Hambleton has also changed the school culture, improving morale and attendance. Because of his efforts, La Salle Academy will continue its mission of educating the underserved and most in need.
Donald Nitti, Math Instructor, Cotter Catholic High School, Winona, Minn.
Mr. Nitti has been a Catholic educator for 38 years, 25 of them spent at Cotter Catholic High School. His teaching mastery has led him to mentor teachers in the field of high level math, and to be highly respected by his students and peers. Mr. Nitti is the kind of teacher who can make really hard math problems, to be worked out after school and on weekends, not only sound like fun, but actually be fun. Perhaps this is why he was inducted into the Minnesota State High School Mathematics League Hall of Fame in 2010. He has coached the Cotter math team for 24 years and, in that time, taken his team to the state tournament on 13 occasions, finishing first or second the last four years. Math, he points out, teaches “clear thinking, solid reasoning, things everyone really needs to make decisions based on sound information.”
Beth Ann Simno, Vice President and Vice Principal, Mount Carmel Academy, New Orleans, La.
Ms. Simno began her teaching career at Mount Carmel Academy in 1978, leaving a job with the state of Louisiana to pursue her desire for a teaching career. She serves as a consultant to other new Catholic High School principals, helping them learn what makes Mount Carmel so successful. She stresses that school leaders have to find what fits the culture of their school, and what works for them personally, rather than replicate what Mount Carmel does. The talents and faith of Ms. Simno were made vividly clear at the time of Hurricane Katrina. Her efforts and wise decisions allowed the school to reopen four months later, with 1038 students returning. Her principal states: “Beth Ann Simno is the key to much of our fruitfulness, our stable enrollment, our happy faculty, and the spreading of Carmelite spirituality. She lives our spirituality each day.”
Patrick Smith, English Faculty/Admissions Director, DeMatha Catholic High School, Hyattsville, Md.
Mr. Smith has been a classroom educator of literature at DeMatha Catholic High School for more than 20 years, during which time he has served concurrently as department chair, campus minister, Christian service coordinator, basketball coach, big brothers moderator and admissions director. His service to faculty outside DeMatha has included giving workshops for middle school teachers, presenting numerous times at conferences on both pedagogy and scholarship, founding middle school writing contests and a week-long writing camp for middle school students. Each year at a freshman retreat, Mr. Smith speaks to the students about the meaning of family – its creation, obligations and rewards – creating an atmosphere of family that is central to DeMatha’s belief that Catholic education is about the active formation of young men who will witness Gospel values.
Margaret Williamson, Principal, Northwest Catholic High School, West Hartford, Conn.
In 1987, Mrs. Williamson began as Vice Principal for Academics at Northwest Catholic High School. She is a well-rounded administrator whose accomplishments include the integration of technology into every classroom, introducing the Professional Learning Community model for faculty, and encouraging faith development through the “First Things First” initiative, where she teaches the basics of the Catholic faith at faculty meetings. Her attendance at Northwest’s athletic events is legendary, and her unflagging support of the teams has earned her honors from the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference. She is the recipient of the 2009-10 Archdiocesan Distinguished Principal Award from the Archdiocese of Hartford.
Sr. Rosemary Hocevar, OSU, Professor, Ursuline College, is the 2011 recipient of the Michael J. Guerra Leadership Award, given by the Secondary Schools Department.
The Michael J. Guerra Leadership Award was instituted in 2001 by the Secondary Schools Department’s Executive Committee of the National Catholic Educational Association. The award honors Michael Guerra, the NCEA Secondary Schools Department’s Executive Director from 1982 to 2001. This national award, launched at the NCEA convention in 2001, recognizes Michael Guerra’s vision, his leadership and his extraordinary commitment to the mission of Catholic secondary school education. The Award serves to advance this vision as it acclaims the significant contributions of a selected educator. The award is bestowed annually at the NCEA convention to an educator whose impact on Catholic Secondary Schools will have a distinctive and lasting impact.
It was 1960 when Sr. Hocevar started teaching chemistry, math, religion, and physics at Sacred Heart Academy and then Villa Angela Academy. In 1970, she assumed leadership as principal of Villa Angela. There she planned, organized and managed the building and programming of the new "Open Concept" model for the Academy. This project generated an excitement and enthusiasm for education that led to an interview on Night Line with Ted Koppel. She served as principal of Villa Angela until 1976 when she became the Coordinator of Secondary Education for the Cleveland Diocese. In 1989, Sr. Hocevar returned to Ursuline College, where she had received her B.S. in chemistry, as the Director of the Ursuline College Graduate Program in Educational Administration (1989-91) and subsequently as Vice President of Institutional Advancement from 1991- 1995. She continues to educate the next generation of Catholic and public school leaders as an Associate Professor of Educational Administration.
She first served on the NCEA Secondary Schools Department Executive Committee in 1975, predating even the namesake of this award in her involvement in the NCEA. She served as the representative from Michigan and Ohio, as secretary of the committee; as president and as past-president. She has been a consultant to schools and school districts since 1978. Sr. Rosemary was named Slovene Woman of the Year in 1997 by the Federation of Slovenian National Homes of Cleveland, OH and received the Crystal Award in 1996 for service and dedication to the alumnae of Ursuline College.
Religious Community Award
Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia, Nashville, Tennessee, (also known as the Nashville Dominicans) are recipients of the 2011 Religious Community Award, are the recipients of the Religious CommunityAward, given by the Secondary Department, for 150 years of service in the U.S.
The Dominican Sisters of the Congregation of St. Cecilia, Nashville, Tennessee, were established in 1860. Despite the early struggles of the Civil War, debt and public auction, epidemics and countless related hardships, their school remained in operation and the community of sisters slowly began to grow. In 1876, the community began to accept invitations to staff or establish schools outside the city of Nashville, and, eventually, in other dioceses. Even during the years of initial struggle, the community never lost sight of the sisters’ role as religious women and as educators. Education has remained the primary apostolate of the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia for the 150 years of its history. The community of almost 270 sisters now serves in 36 schools in 19 U.S. dioceses, as well as in the Archdiocese of Sydney, Australia.
Elementary Schools Department
The Distinguished Pastor Awards
The Distinguished Pastor Awards are given annually and were established by NCEA’s Department of Elementary Schools executive committee in 2007 to acknowledge the exceptional contributions and leadership of pastors. There are eight recipients in 2011:
Benedictine Father Gregory Chamberlin, St. Benedict Cathedral Parish and School, Evansville, Ind., Diocese of Evansville. Every morning at 7:35, Father Chamberlin greets students, welcoming them and calling them by name, and every afternoon he stands with the crossing guards to send them home. He has served for 17 years at St. Benedict Cathedral, and is the “center point” of the school, said Benedictine Sister Karlene Sensmeier, principal of the school. “His leadership and presence at St. Ben’s are recruiting tools for the school.”
Msgr. Gregory Gier, Holy Family Cathedral Parish and School, Tulsa, Okla., Diocese of Tulsa. Msgr. Gier attends school activities and gives a State of the School address each year. From near isolation, he brought together the parish and school communities, fostering collaboration and increasing attendance at both school and parish. By working closely with the school advisory council, school enrollment has increased 40 percent. “I cannot imagine where our school would be without his leadership,” said Principal Jay Luetkemeyer.
Father John R. Haney, St. Gabriel of the Sorrowful Virgin Parish and School, Pittsburgh, Pa., Diocese of Pittsburgh. As pastor of St. Gabriel’s for 27 years, Father Haney has continued the vision of his predecessor in making the school tuition-free. He does this by promoting stewardship in the parish, and encouraging parishioners to share a portion of their time, talent and treasure in support of all parish ministries, including the school. He is passionate about making Catholic education available to all children, not just those whose families can afford it. “He is truly the Good Shepherd, who knows his sheep and tends his flock with the simple, loving kindness of a caring, faithful father,” said Barbara Sawyer, principal of the school.
Father Gordon Kalil, St. John the Baptist Catholic Church and School, Napa, Calif., Diocese of Santa Rosa. Father Kalil is known to produce squeals of delight from students when he dons unique clothing in support of school activities, such as a “crab bib” at the Crab Dinner or a referee uniform and whistle at the Priests vs. Students Holy Hoops basketball game. But it is the gasps of joy from parishioners that may be his biggest achievement. In difficult economic times, Father Kalil raised $400,000 in a capital campaign for the school, and secured $100,000 in tuition assistance for this school year. He accomplished these efforts while ministering to a 15,000 member congregation. “It is his passion for Catholic education that moves everyone to help him on his mission,” said Lisa Paul, school council president. “We feel blessed to have the leadership of Father Kalil.”
Msgr. Louis F. Kihneman, III, Sacred Heart Church and School, Rockport, Texas, Diocese of Corpus Christi. Under Msgr. Kihneman’s leadership, school enrollment doubled, an endowment was established, facilities were improved, and the Montessori program for pre-schoolers was introduced. But it is his spiritual leadership with children that stands out for many parents and faculty. When hearing first confessions, he sits on a chair at the second-graders’ level; when blessing the animals on the feast of St. Francis, he is amazingly patient, and when preaching to students every Friday, he keeps his homilies short and tailored to their level. “He shows us that a priest who follows Christ is a joyful person,” said teacher Fredia Hester. “Not only does he have a gentle sense of humor when dealing with the normal things that children do, but in him they can see the loving kindness of someone following Jesus.”
Father Ronald J. Lewinski, St. Mary of the Assumption Parish and Frassati Catholic Academy, Mundelein, Ill., Archdiocese of Chicago. Over the years, Father Lewinski noticed declining enrollment at his school and two nearby schools. He explored the circumstances affecting Catholic schools and children ages 10-14, interviewing staff and parents, and developed a vision for a new Catholic learning environment that integrated 21st century technology, high academic standards and a strong spiritual vision.
In 2010, Frassati Catholic Academy opened to 131 students, the first Catholic middle school in the Archdiocese of Chicago. Named for Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, the school emphasizes a spiritual charter of five principles: beatitudes, relationships, Eucharist, discipleship and perseverance. “We thank God for granting Father Ron the wisdom, fortitude and initial financial support to provide middle school students an extraordinary Catholic learning environment where the only attitude that is embraced is beatitude!” said Dr. Diane Vida, principal. “He is an amazing, intellectual, modest shepherd, and I am honored to serve him.”
Father Arthur J. Proulx, Nativity Catholic Parish and School, Brandon, Fla., Diocese of St. Petersburg. Twice a day, Father Proulx walks the campus of Nativity Catholic School , fingering his rosary beads and chatting with the 770 students. After the daily 8:00 a.m. Mass, he faithfully asks staff, “How are you? What are you working on? Anything I can help you with?” “He has a unique ability to balance the two huge roles demanded of a pastor of a large parish and school: to be an involved leader on everyday business matters and yet always keeps his role as spiritual leader his primary ministry,” said Michelle Welsby, chairperson of the school advisory council. “We are grateful for his service.”
Holy Cross Father Neil Wack, Christ the King Catholic Parish and School, South Bend, Ind., Diocese of Fort Wayne/South Bend. Father Wack is known as the priest who “walks the walk.” He earned this designation when he raised $60,000 for a new school playground by walking a marathon – on a treadmill. He established a twinning relationship with Corpus Christi School in Jalchatra, Bangladesh, encouraging students to donate money. “Not only does this encourage global learning for the students, but it provides them with the opportunity to practice Christian works of charity,” said Kathleen Kloska, a parent with four children attending Christ the King School. “He truly puts on the face of Christ for us.”
Distinguished Principal Awards
Representing 12 regions throughout the country, the 2011 Distinguished Principal award winners were nominated by their diocesan superintendents. Colleagues, parents and students supported each nomination with letters describing the principals' leadership qualities and contributions to Catholic education.
Region 1
Andree Tostevin, St. John’s Catholic School, Brunswick, Maine. "When Andree Tostevin joined St. John's, she initiated changes that unified the teaching staff, revived morale and renewed commitment to the school's Catholic identity," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "She has kept enrollment steady despite the closing of a nearby naval base. She is developing a template for a cost-of-programming tuition schedule that will be used by every Catholic school in the state."
"Our Catholic schools are successful because we make greater academic demands, provide a strong community of faith, and give each student personal, positive attention," said Tostevin in describing her educational philosophy. "Everything we do is evaluated against our Catholic teachings. I am blessed to have people around me who show me every day what it means to be Catholic."
Region 2
James Mule, St. Amelia School, Tonawanda, New York. "James Mulé is tireless in his pursuit of his mission as principal, demonstrating tremendous leadership and vision," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "He is innovative, constantly creating new ways to build Catholic identity in the school and students. He embraces the changing world and never hesitates to try new ideas."
"It is my mission to create an environment that gives all children the opportunity to achieve their fullest personal, spiritual and academic potential to become productive and responsible citizens," said Mulé in describing his educational philosophy. "My aim is to set direction, charting a clear course that everyone understands, establishing high expectations and using data to track progress and performance, and moving people to achieve amazing results in a culture of school ownership."
Region 3
Sr. Elizabeth Marley, St. Jude Catholic Education Center, Chalfont, Pennsylvania. "A tireless leader, Sister Elizabeth works to keep her school's reputation stellar by establishing high expectations for teachers and students and supporting them in using their talents," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "Under her guidance, the school developed a research continuum to help students practice 21st century technological skills that is being emulated at schools throughout the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.”
"The Catholic school setting, consciously chosen by parents and supported by Catholic educators, parish leaders and parishioners, readies students for a fruitful and productive life both spiritually and academically," said Sister Elizabeth in describing her educational philosophy. "By the example of our lives, our students learn the message of the Gospel and desire to cultivate their own relationships with God."
Region 4
Kathryn B. Wood, Queen of Angels, Roswell, Georgia. "Since coming to Queen of Angels, Kathryn Wood has pursued a vision of becoming a national Blue Ribbon School, making technology an integral part of the educational process and emphasizing the school's Catholic identity," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "An outstanding professional, leader and woman of faith, she nurtures leadership skills among the faculty, staff and parent community."
"My philosophy of Catholic education embraces a statement my mother made years ago when I asked why I had to go to Catholic School. She said, 'because you're worth it,'" said Wood. "Based on the belief that each child is a unique individual, blessed with special gifts, we combine sound religious training with a vigorous differentiated instructional program to develop the whole child—body and soul, mind and heart."
Region 5
Sharon K. Bresler, St. Thomas School, Ft. Thomas, Kentucky. "An excellent leader, Sharon Bresler creates a school environment where students and teachers can both flourish," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "As the administrator of a Blue Ribbon School, she is collaborative yet decisive, and has a way about her that makes everyone want to achieve great things."
"Our Blue Ribbon School status affirms that our students receive a content-rich academic education as outlined by the government, but as a Catholic school we must go farther and develop our students' spirituality," said Bresler in describing her educational philosophy. "My role of administrator is one of being facilitator, supporter and motivator. I do whatever I can to help teachers do their job to the best of their abilities."
Region 6
Mrs. Yvonne R. Schwab, St. James the Less Catholic School, Columbus Ohio. "After Yvonne Schwab became principal, she increased the school population by 100 by accessing Ohio's Educational Choice Voucher Program," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "Through her leadership, teachers have learned new skills, new languages and new ways of organizing basic school structures to maximize the learning experience for students."
"Catholic schools provide a wonderful opportunity to develop committed citizens who understand and practice social justice," said Schwab in describing her educational philosophy. "Catholic schools should meet children where they are. We must create an atmosphere where students are not afraid to be different, not afraid to ask for help and not afraid to be themselves."
Region 7
Sr. Joanita Koors, OSF, St. Mary School, North Vernon, Indiana. "Under Sister Joanita's leadership, St. Mary's has experienced a consistent increase in enrollment and improvement in standardized test scores," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "She has controlled school spending while expanding the curriculum and programs available to students. She has also kept morale high with her positive approach and complimentary attitude toward the faculty."
"Every person is an integral part of the positive climate in our school," said Sister Joanita in describing her educational philosophy. "It is primary that I set an example of respect, love, joy and enthusiasm. I am a leader of leaders and servant to all. Together, we form a team to make sure every student learns every day."
Region 8
Jane Schmidt, Highland Catholic School, St. Paul, Minnesota. "Jane Schmidt has cultivated a faith-filled environment at Highland Catholic, which has seen an increase in enrollment under her leadership," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "She is an insightful, hard-working administrator who is committed to meeting the individual needs of each student in her school. She has built a sense of responsibility and pride at the school, which is reflected in the many parents who volunteer their time and knowledge."
"A school climate should help children know that God has given them individual gifts, and through this knowledge they should delight in the gifts of others," said Schmidt in describing her educational philosophy. "It is vital to be surrounded by a team of qualified and energetic colleagues who help make the building click on a daily basis and inspire me with a vision for what we can become."
Region 9
Richard Montgomery, St. Mary’s School, Derby, Kansas. "Richard Montgomery has built a reputation of leading as a faithful steward, invoking a sense of calm and a spirit of collaboration," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "He spent several years forming a parish coalition to build a new school, on which the parish broke ground in spring 2010. He prepares students to go out into the world with a solid foundation of spiritual and academic strength."
"My philosophy is pretty simple: everything we do is a teachable moment. Do it with Christ at the center," said Montgomery. "I try to involve the staff and parents as much as possible in the school. Once they see what a special blessing God has provided in this school, they want to be part of it."
Region 10
Joana Camacho, Sacred Heart Catholic School, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. "Joana Camacho is the epitome of what a Catholic school principal should be," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "She takes her spiritual and academic leadership very seriously. She knows how to challenge people in a way that is respectful and motivational, and her upbeat manner creates a positive demeanor throughout the school."
"Catholic education builds on students' natural curiosities, inspiring students with a love and desire for academic excellence, lifelong learning, service and leadership," said Camacho in describing her educational philosophy. "I strive to nurture in each student the compassion, courage and responsibility crucial to become a true disciple of Christ and a productive global citizen."
Region 11
Barbara Gasparini, St. Eugene’s Cathedral School, Santa Rosa, California. "Barbara Gasparini is known as the heart of St. Eugene's, and she has a genuine interest in each student," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "During this challenging economic time, she has made sure that every school family that is adversely affected does not have to leave St. Eugene's by forgiving tuition debts, increasing tuition assistance and providing larger discounts for multiple-child families."
"Catholic education must center on developing and teaching the whole child," said Gasparini in describing her educational philosophy. "I seek to develop the spiritual, intellectual, emotional, social and physical aspects of all students so that they may see themselves as unique children of a loving God. The students learn Gospel values and Catholic doctrine so they will become strong and useful members of their church and society."
Region 12
Kristin K. Dixon, Our Lady of Guadalupe School, Seattle, Washington. "A compassionate leader, Kristin Dixon has the vision to assess where help or change is needed and provides the hard work, dedication and support that enables her school to succeed," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "She thrives on being a lifelong learner and inspires her staff and students to meet this goal with enthusiasm."
"Each child is a unique prism reflecting God's love," said Dixon in describing her educational philosophy. "Our students' thoughtfulness in their decisions, their ability to know right from wrong, the way they face the challenge of forgiving, and promote acts of kindness and tolerance—this is what we seek to achieve in our parish school."
Distinguished Teacher Awards
The 2011 Distinguished Teacher award winners, chosen from 12 regions throughout the country, were nominated by their diocesan superintendents. Their nominations were supported by letters from colleagues, parents and students detailing the teachers' outstanding work in the classroom.
Region 1
Andrew Brassard, St. Augustine School, Providence, Rhode Island. "A master teacher, Andrew Brassard is a man of integrity who embraces the mission of Catholic education," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "He gives unselfishly of himself and his time to students who need extra help through his after-school math club, tutoring sessions and innovative educational strategies."
"Even subjects like math and science provide opportunities to remind students how Jesus would have acted during his time on Earth. We should always model Jesus' ways in helping others in need," said Brassard in describing his educational philosophy. "I try to develop a respectful and kind teacher-student relationship with each of my students, showing an interest in what they enjoy doing and what problems they face in their daily lives."
Region 2
Mary Kate Green, St. Mary School, Waterford, New York. "Mary Kate Green provides other teachers with a role model for Catholic identity," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "She has a unique way of making students know they are cared for, and she takes pride in their accomplishments. She has an ability to help each child feel utterly important or simply excited to learn."
"I believe that Catholic education should provide the morals and values for students to develop and live their faith," said Green in describing her educational philosophy. "I provide my students with a classroom where they are able to develop morally, academically, socially and emotionally. I act as a facilitator of learning with hands-on experiences with students engaged in activities where they can take control of their learning."
Region 3
Bernadette Langdon, St. Simon and Jude School, West Chester, Pennsylvania. "Bernadette Langdon displays all the characteristics of a distinguished Catholic educator whose dedication to students, parents and other staff members resembles that of the Master Teacher himself," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "Her integration of technology not only in her own classroom, but throughout the school has helped build skills for the challenges of a globalized society."
"I believe it is my responsibility to help students recognize their gifts, develop their talents and, with prayer and discernment, discover what God is asking of them now and for their futures," said Langdon in describing her educational philosophy. "I will do all that I can to help each child develop a personal relationship with God."
Region 4
Mary F. Van Ryswick, St. Michael’s School, Ridge, Maryland. "By establishing high expectations, Mary Van Ryswick achieves positive results and promotes successful school habits," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "In one lesson, students raise butterflies from larvae, an experience she echoes in all assignments in the spring curriculum. The lesson culminates with the release of butterflies on the school lawn, a transformational experience for students."
"I integrate religion and life, striving to have Gospel values present in the learning experiences occurring in my classroom," said Van Ryswick in describing her educational philosophy. "I make every effort to provide a place where I can 'teach as Jesus taught' with every student's spiritual and academic growth in mind. As a team, I work with parents to provide the best educational atmosphere for all students."
Region 5
Diane L. LeBlanc, St. Elizabeth School, Paincourtville, Louisiana. "An outstanding educator, Diane LeBlanc epitomizes the values of a good Catholic teacher and is dedicated to preserving the traditions of St. Elizabeth School," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "She maintains a positive relationship with parents and fosters a strong school-to-home connection. Her rapport with children is natural and instinctive."
"I believe Catholic education is the foundation upon which our students progress on their journey to become successful, faith-filled members of society," said LeBlanc in describing her educational philosophy. "I try to bring Gospel values into whatever lesson I am teaching, whether in math, reading or social studies. We discuss current events daily, which provides great opportunities to bring religion into each teaching experience."
Region 6
Jennifer Teepen, St. Dominic School, Cincinnati, Ohio. "Jennifer Teepen epitomizes what a teacher at any school should aspire to be—a role model demonstrating a strong work ethic, a love of children and learning, and a strong desire to see her students achieve well beyond the minimal expectations," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "She inspires in her students a natural love of learning by supplementing the textbook with hands-on experience."
"I have found one of the most important parts of Catholic education is to treat each student as an individual—a child of God with his or her own special qualities and needs," said Teepen in describing her educational philosophy. "A Catholic school should be like a second home for students. It must be a place where each student has the knowledge that he or she is loved, valued and accepted unconditionally."
Region 7
Jennifer Kowieski, St. Josaphat School, Chicago, Illinois. "Jennifer Kowieski's contributions to her school's success were critical in St. Josaphat becoming a national Blue Ribbon Award-winning school," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "She has high expectations for her students, but she does not expect them to meet those standards on their own. She is supportive and nurturing, differentiating lessons and assignments so that all of her students can succeed."
In describing her educational philosophy, Kowieski said, "I try to follow Christ's model of putting on the eyes of Christ to better understand and love my students, reach out to my students who come with different gifts and academic abilities and who are each deserving of a great education, and help my students develop their unique gifts and talents in service to others, not for their own gain.
Region 8
Mary Wellems, St. John the Baptist, Longmont, Colorado. "Mary Wellems wears many hats, and each day she cares for the intellectual, social and physical health of the students and staff at St. John the Baptist," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "Her unique ability to balance the roles of educator and administrator makes for an enriched learning and working environment that benefits everyone at her school."
"I try to make children feel comfortable and safe in asking any question and not be afraid to inquire about their world, past and present, so that they may feel secure to explore their faith and world," said Wellems in describing her educational philosophy. "Middle school is hard for children, wanting to continue being a child yet wanting to be part of the adult world. It is challenging for them and they need constant guidance."
Region 9
Mary O’Connell, St. Justin the Martyr, St. Louis, Missouri. "An inspiring teacher who challenges her students, Mary O'Connell believes that children learn best by doing and exploring," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "For this outstanding teacher, the classroom is simply the beginning of the lesson. She helps her students see beyond the obvious and search for more."
"My mission as a Catholic educator is to prepare my students spiritually to be active members of our faith," said O'Connell in describing her educational philosophy. "I need to provide every student with the opportunity to learn in rich and meaningful ways that support his or her academic and personal growth. Students learn best by trying to make sense of something on their own with the teacher as guide."
Region 10
Geri Russell, St. Mary’s School, Amarillo, Texas. "Geri Russell embraces every moment in the classroom as an opportunity to teach all subjects, such as math during an art activity," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "A dedicated and effective teacher, her greatest strength is her ability to build interest into the subject matter by doing many hands-on activities that keep students active and involved."
"I believe that education must be an enjoyable experience for children," said Russell in describing her educational philosophy. "I want them to have a fire for learning more about themselves, their Creator, their surroundings and their world because of an internal desire to learn all they can. I feel it is my responsibility to help them acquire this motivation by offering exploration and learning through hands-on experiences that create a thirst for knowledge."
Region 11
Karen Streeter, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, Salt Lake City, Utah. "Karen Streeter has a special talent for working with young adults who are struggling with so many influences," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "She helps them understand their emerging feelings and use their faith to help them make good choices. In the classroom, she analyzes novels with her students and challenges them to search for deeper understanding of Scripture and issues of morality."
"Only in a trusting environment will a child feel empowered to learn," said Streeter in describing her educational philosophy. "To model respect and acceptance for every person's talents and challenges, I tailor my instruction to address each child's needs and cultivate a safe community in which every child's voice is heard. It is my responsibility to honor the good within each person by listening and learning or sharing something of myself."
Region 12
Deborah Werner, St. Catherine School, Seattle, Washington. "The consummate teacher, Deborah Werner is always looking for ways to motivate students and help them meet—and exceed—their learning goals," said Brother Robert Bimonte, executive director of the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools. "Her willingness to become the school's first technology director after more than 25 years in the classroom speaks to her openness and commitment to wanting the best for the school."
"My job is to motivate students to complete their best work, to treat others as Jesus would treat them, and to learn that true happiness comes from serving others," said Werner in describing her educational philosophy. "Being a just teacher is being fully prepared and organized for the students. Being a kind teacher is being a sensitive listener so I can thoughtfully discern the needs of each student. Being a humble teacher is knowing I must always be open to learning new and better ways to improve my teaching."
NCEA Distinguished Home and School Association Award in honor of Mrs. Maxine J. Donahue
Each year, the NCEA Department of Elementary Schools honors Home and School Associations who have created outstanding programs to enhance the life of the school community. Maxine J. Blader Donahue was an Executive Director of the National Catholic School Parent's Federation and was a regular contributor to articles for NCEA publications related to parent involvement in the schools. Mrs. Donahue died in September 1998. There are five recipients in 2011:
, ,, ,
St. Petronille School Parent Organization, received by Michelle Andringa and Lori Krebsbach, of Glen Ellyn, Illinois.
Monsignor Clade Catholic School Home and School Association, received by Kristi Brooks, of Glen Burnie, Maryland.
St. Benedict Home and School Association, received by Teri Ford, of Chicago, Illinois.
Sacred Heart School Home and School Association, received by Patricia Sexton, of Weymouth, Massachussets.
St. Michael's School Home and School Association, received by Sara Cooper, Ridge, Maryland.
National Catholic Educational Exhibitors Association
The Distingished Service award will be given at the National Catholic Educational Exhibitors Association on Wednesday, April 27 at a business luncheon. There are two recipients in 20ll:
Suzan Larroquette of William H. Sadlier, Inc.
Robert Meuler of Pearson Education
The NCEA, founded in 1904, is a professional membership organization that provides leadership, direction and service to fulfill the evangelizing, catechizing and teaching mission of the church. NCEA members include elementary schools, high schools, parish religious education programs and seminaries.
-end-
National Catholic Educational Association
Back