Over the past several years, I have dived deep into the world of education both in regards to my academics and professional practices. As a direct result, I have come to believe that the role of an educator goes far beyond simply teaching content and increasing one's knowledge across several subject areas including mathematics, language arts, science, and social studies. Being an educator also means the following: preparing students for future growth in their educational careers through creating a solid foundation, developing a safe learning environment in which students can think critically and creatively, creating healthy relationships with students in which their questions and concerns are welcomed and valued, and profoundly impacting the school community, among others. I believe that it is of great importance that an educator recognizes these responsibilities – along with the immense influence that they have in the lives of students – and responds in an appropriate and worthwhile way.  

Although I was able to gain both knowledge and experience as an educator, I was finding that something was missing, precisely, the joy and love that one receives through the integration of faith within the classroom. In a sense, I was blessed with being able to obtain a Catholic education from preschool to my senior year of high school. Additionally, I was one who volunteered for several years as both an altar server and monthly bingo helper at my local parish. Due to faith being so fundamental to my day to day life, I am thrilled and eager to be a part of the St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School community.