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TEAM/RESOURCE I graduated in 2003 from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln with a Bachelors in Education. I began teaching with the Omaha Public Schools in January 2004 as a Teaching Associate and then taught first grade with the district for the following six years. I obtained my Masters Degree in Literacy and endorsement as a Reading Specialist from Concordia University in December 2006.
I believe that many young children have questions and feel closeness to God that they want to express and discuss. I look forward to encouraging these discussions related to a student’s spiritual growth and incorporating Christ into my teaching. I am thrilled to be a part of a school with such a stellar reputation that promotes strong academic, social, emotional, and spiritual growth. The environment at St. Patrick’s is so welcoming and positive and it is obvious that parents, students, and staff take much pride in the school.
I have been married to my husband, Jason, for 4 years and we have a beautiful baby girl, Keary Jane who we were blessed with in July 2008. We spend much of our time at the gym working out and staying healthy. We also enjoy traveling and hope to make it back to Italy with our growing family in the future. I have a B.A. degree, with a major in English, from St. Benedict’s College and a M.S. degree from the University of Nebraska Omaha in Educational Administration. In addition to administrative certification, I have teaching certifications in English, Hearing Impaired and Special Education. I have been involved in the field of education for the past 38 years. I was at the Iowa School for the Deaf for 32 of those years; the last 16 as principal. I then had the opportunity to serve as principal at Madonna School, Serving Special Needs Students, which I have done for the past 5 years. In addition, I have served as an adjunct at Iowa Western Community College teaching ESL, and as a consultant for State Public Policy Group. I am currently, or have served on boards for: Madonna School, Angel Guardians, Inc., State Public Policy Group, Special Education Advisory Council, and the Governor’s Special Education Task Force.
I am a product of a Catholic family and of Catholic schools. I knew as a young child the importance of a Catholic education, and as an adult, appreciate even more the positive impacts that a faith-based education has on a child. Catholic schools provide a unique and vibrant culture that public schools cannot replicate. It is that commitment to nurture each child’s mind, body and spirit that motivates me to continue in the field of education in a Catholic school.
I am instantly energized about the prospect of working at St. Patrick’s School and being involved with the team of professionals that make up the staff. Because of my associations with a variety of schools within the Omaha Archdiocese, I have had the good fortune to have visited St. Patrick’s prior to my arrival. My immediate impressions have been that the facilities are first-rate, the staff is most courteous and professional, and the students have a sparkle in their eyes to match their smiling faces. It is common knowledge among educators within the Omaha Archdiocese, that St. Patrick’s has an excellent reputation and is held in very high regard.
I grew-up in a Catholic family on a farm in Iowa. As one of eight children, I learned quickly the importance of faith, education, work and getting along! I am married and have four children, two of whom are elementary teachers. I come from a family of educators, including my mother, who also was a teacher. My wife, Shari, is an elementary principal at the Iowa School for the Deaf, and has been involved in education for 36 years.
My hobbies include travel, fishing, sports, music, theatre, and reading.
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Mrs. Shannon Watkins - TEAM Teacher
Mrs. Kathy Johnson - TEAM Teacher's Assistant