What I Love About St. Hilary School: The students! They are always happy and love to make others happy!
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Pope Francis
My Book Pick For Students: Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Naples, Florida
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… do Jazzercise at 5:30 a.m. and have twins!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She took us to the University of Akron, where she went to college, for a field trip
My Passion Outside Of Work: Cooking and shopping
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in education from St. Mary’s College and master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: It is a happy place for students and staff with high expectations for all
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: My grandmother – she was a prayer warrior and taught me to work hard, stick up for what I believe in, and let God lead the way
My Book Pick For Students: The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Upstate New York and the Adirondack Mountains to see my family
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… love basketball! Even though I am only 5 feet tall, I love everything about it!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She saw something special in me that I did not see, pushed me to be the best I could be – and inspired me to be a teacher!
My Passion Outside Of Work: Being the mom of 2 little boys, gardening, reading, and traveling
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in integrated language arts from the Bowling Green State University and master’s degree in educational leadership from Grand Canyon University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The wonderful students I get to work with every day
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Anthony
My Book Pick For Students: Giraffes Can’t Dance
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Ocean City, New Jersey
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… have 3 sisters and a brother
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She was caring and made every child feel loved
My Passion Outside Of Work: Cooking and baking
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, intervention specialist with a reading endorsement from Walsh University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: St. Hilary is my home away from home, where teachers have a passion for teaching and share their faith on a daily basis
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Mary
My Book Pick For Students: I Love You This Much by Lynn Hodges and Sue Buchanan
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Marco Island, Florida
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… along with my mom, sister, three children, and my dogs all have names that start with K (as in kindergarten!)
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She had high expectations, taught me to give a strong hand shake and to be confident
My Passion Outside Of Work: Family game nights, watching my children at their sporting events, and traveling with my family
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: Shiny new kindergarten faces at the beginning of the year to introduce to the joy of St. Hilary!
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Sr. Carol Joy
My Book Pick For Students: The Goodnight Moon series and The Book Thief
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The Caribbean
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… love to dance
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She believed in me and inspired me to go beyond
My Passion Outside Of Work: Fashion and decorating when I’m not reading or power-walking
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in education K-8 from the University of Akron and master’s degree in supervision from the University of Akron, +25 hours, many of which are in gifted and talented education
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The friendly family atmosphere, loving attitudes and gestures displayed daily, and Christian values that are a vital part of students’ growth and development
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Mother Teresa
My Book Pick For Students: Rainbow Fish
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Las Vegas and New York
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… am not a beach person but would rather go to history museums and visit historic sites! And, Mrs. Piekarski and I were in kindergarten at the same school during the same year!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: Her kind, loving nature and how she took a special interest in me – and inspired me to become a teacher
My Passion Outside Of Work: Walking in nature on a sunny day
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in education with K-8 certification from the University of Akron and master’s degree in early childhood education from the University of Alabama, +18 hours in early childhood education
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The staff, students and families
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Mary and my mom
My Book Pick For Students: The Gift of Nothing
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The beach
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… was a flight attendant and I like superheroes
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She took the time to care
My Passion Outside Of Work: My family
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in rhetoric and communication from Kent State University and bachelor’s degree in elementary education, English minor, from Kent State University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: How friendly and supportive everyone is
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Francis of Assisi
My Book Pick For Students: The Giving Tree
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The beach
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… do a lot of camping
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She got to know me as a person
My Passion Outside Of Work: My family and my boys’ sporting events
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in elementary education 1-8 from the University of Akron and master’s degree in curriculum and instructional study from Western Governors University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: St. Hilary is a great school with a dedicated staff and it provides students the opportunity to grow in their education and faith
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Theresa of Calcutta
My Book Pick For Students: Mercy Watson by Kate DiCamillo
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Anywhere with my family – especially Walt Disney World
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… talked a lot in grade school!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: Being caring, fun and always challenging us to learn new things
My Passion Outside Of Work: My family, as well as running, reading, and shopping
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in education from Kent State University and master’s degree in education – reading specialist from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: It has so much to offer and scholastically prepares students for high school
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: My father, who taught in a Catholic school for 40 years
My Book Pick For Students: BFF
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Fripp Island, SC
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… sang solos since I was in third grade
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: Dedication and ability to make learning fun
My Passion Outside Of Work: Volleyball and baking cookies
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in communication from Ohio State University and teaching certification from Baldwin Wallace College
What I Love About St. Hilary School: I love how welcoming everyone is, and the yearly school theme that unites everyone
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: My mom, who taught me to live every day to its fullest and see the positives in every situation
My Book Pick For Students: The Little House series
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Any beach and nearby seafood restaurants
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… have a huge sweet tooth!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She took the time to get to know us, genuinely cared about us, and took time to teach us things we were curious about even if they were not in the lesson plans
My Passion Outside Of Work: Being in the kitchen!
My Education: Bachelor’s degrees in early childhood education and early childhood intervention from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: Being in an environment that is conducive to learning and the support of all the parents in helping to educate their children
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Mother Teresa
My Book Pick For Students: Strega Nona
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The ocean
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… play the keyboard
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She was caring, helpful, patient, and understanding
My Passion Outside Of Work: Woodworking
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, certification grades 1-8, from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The energy of the teachers and positive relationships I have built
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: My parents – they are extremely kind and caring with a confidence that makes them leaders
My Book Pick For Students: My Rotten Red Headed Older Brother by Patricia Polacco
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Madison, WI or Whitefish, MT
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… love anything outdoors
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: My favorite teacher was Mrs. Starkey! She was so caring and nurturing and taught me to love school
My Passion Outside Of Work: Soccer, coaching, reading, friends, and family
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in human development and family studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, master’s degree in early childhood education from John Carroll University and working on master’s degree in educational administration from Ursuline College
What I Love About St. Hilary School: I love the people in this community – we are all like a family with special talents and treasures
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Esther and my grandmother who was named for her
My Book Pick For Students: Ginger Pye
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The beach
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… had a difficult time learning to read in first grade and now I love reading!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: All my favorite teachers encouraged me to be myself and learn something new
My Passion Outside Of Work: Golfing, Zumba, yoga, being outdoors, and spending time with my family
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in education K-8 from Kent State University and master’s degree in early childhood education from Kent State University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: Being able to see my own children grow up as students on a daily basis
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Pope Saint John Paul II
My Book Pick For Students: The Green Futures of Tycho by William Sleator
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The University of Pittsburgh’s Cathedral of Learning (a unique, gigantic tower-like structure… Google it!)
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… used to sing bass and beatbox in several collegiate a cappella groups
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: Her Thomas Edison stick-to-it-iveness and adept technological know-how
My Passion Outside Of Work: Reading, drawing cartoons and playing video games
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from the University of Pittsburgh and bachelor’s degree in middle school mathematics and language arts from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The interactions with my students and the anticipation of something new every day
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Therese, The Little Flower
My Book Pick For Students: I am a voracious reader so my favorite books change all the time!
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The great outdoors
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… love reading picture books
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: The time taken to see what was special about me
My Passion Outside Of Work: Running and reading
My Education: Associate’s degree in marketing from Lorain County Community College, bachelor’s degree in psychology from Kent State University, and master’s degree in elementary education from Kent State University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: I am beyond thrilled when I see former students succeed at high school, college or careers
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Anthony
My Book Pick For Students: Harry Potter
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Memphis, TN and France
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… am a convert to Catholicism
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: He was a phenomenal and inspirational music teacher/band director
My Passion Outside Of Work: Music
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in education from Baldwin Wallace College and master’s degree in systematic theology from John Carroll University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: I can share my faith with my students!
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Teresa of Avila
My Book Pick For Students: The I Survived series
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Isle of Palms in Charleston, SC
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… had my own horse for 14 years and love to ride horses
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She loved to sing and always played music in class to help us learn
My Passion Outside Of Work: Volunteering at Victory Gallop where I help teach children with disabilities to ride horses
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in special education from the University of Akron and master’s degree in early childhood education from Kent State University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: Having the opportunity to live my Catholic faith in the workplace is essential to my happiness, and the innovation and creativity of the teachers and administrators match my personality and educational philosophy
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Damien de Veuster of Molokai
My Book Pick For Students: Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Zion National Park, Utah
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… have visited every state in the United States of America
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She had a contagious smile and always took extra time to help me after school with my reading
My Passion Outside Of Work: Finding gratitude in the abundant blessings God puts in our path each day
My Education: Bachelor’s degree summa cum laude, intervention specialist K-12, from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: St. Hilary School feels like home to me, with my classroom and students being an extension of my home and my own children
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Ordinary people who overcome obstacles to achieve their goals and inspire others to be kinder, more positive and more spiritual
My Book Pick For Students: Out of my Mind by Sharon Draper
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… like to sing and dance to the radio while driving in my car – much to the embarrassment of my children!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: Her love of learning was infectious and she made learning fun
My Passion Outside Of Work: Raising my children and running
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in business management and marking from the University of Akron, bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Akron and master’s degree in business administration from John Carroll University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: I love that St. Hilary allows me to bring my faith into my classroom and to enhance my lessons
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Bernadette
My Book Pick For Students: A book of poetry can inspire anyone!
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The woods of southern Ohio
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… kept stats for the Eastern Michigan hockey team throughout college although I am a klutz, not very athletic, and a girly girl!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: My favorite teacher is actually our own Sister Carol Joy – I was so fortunate to have her in second grade and believe she is one of the fundamental reasons I became a teacher because she made learning engaging, fun and colorful!
My Passion Outside Of Work: My family, traveling, cooking, and spending time with children of any age
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in early education from Eastern Michigan University and master’s degree in administration, social policy, and planning from Harvard University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: St. Hilary is a supportive and faithful community
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. John Paul II and St. Catherine of Siena
My Book Pick For Students: The Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer, The Boys Who Challenged Hitler by Phillip Hoose, Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery, and One for the Murphys by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Poland
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… was a student at St. Hilary School and Mrs. Piekarski, Mrs. Monea, Mrs. Metzger, and Mrs. Toth were some of my teachers!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: I have been blessed with too many wonderful teachers to have a favorite – all have in common a passion for their subject area and a love of their students
My Passion Outside Of Work: Singing and reading
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in education, K-12 reading endorsement, from the Franciscan University of Steubenville
What I Love About St. Hilary School: After teaching in public schools and being away from my family, St. Hilary has provided me with an opportunity to teach at a Catholic school close to my family where I can inspire and influence students by teaching subjects I am passionate about while also teaching students the value of service, faith, and the fact they can make a positive difference in the world.
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: My 5th grade math and science teacher, Mr. Namestnik
My Book Pick For Students: I am Third by Gale Sayers
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The Rocky Mountains
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… am a retired bull rider! I rode a bull for a fundraiser when I lived in Colorado!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: The belief he had in the ability of all his students to succeed, and his true love for his students outside the classroom. He used our passions to make class interesting and inspired me to be a teacher.
My Passion Outside Of Work: Exercising, playing and coaching sports, and building jigsaw puzzles
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in middle childhood education from John Carroll University and master’s degree in instructional technology from Fort Hays State University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The creativity among my fellow teachers and a support staff that gives 100%
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Mother Teresa
My Book Pick For Students: The Great Gatsby
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Outer Banks
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… am an only child but always wanted a brother and sister
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: My home economics teacher in high school had an amazing passion for teaching and applied real life scenarios in every lesson
My Passion Outside Of Work: Cooking, gardening and spending time with my family
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in education, integrated social studies, from Kent State University
What Drew Me To St. Hilary School: The Christ-centered education and close community
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. John Paul ll
My Book Pick for Students: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by CS Lewis
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Any ocean
Students Would be Surprised to Know That I... went open water diving with 36 sharks!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She cared about me as an individual, including my learning style and interests
My Passion Outside of Work: Spending time with my husband and four children
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The energy is always high and smiles abound, students and families care deeply about education, and we have the opportunity to set a Christian example
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: My dad – he brought me to the faith and I would not be a Catholic school teacher without his inspiration, direction and advice
My Book Pick For Students: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: My family’s cabin in Lake Tahoe
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… have family in Vietnam – my brother, Keith, has lived there for over 15 years as a teacher and has a wife and 2 boys
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: He made my childhood anxiety disappear through his unique way of reaching students and caring about each one as a child of God
My Passion Outside Of Work: My wife and daughter, golf, reading current affairs magazines politics, electronic dance music, and running half-marathons
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in middle childhood education from the University of Dayton
What I Love About St. Hilary School: I love that we have an opportunity to teach our students in a community that supports them as they grow in their faith
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Nicholas
My Book Pick For Students: Wonder by Raquel J. Palacio
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Yellowstone National Park
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… enjoy camping with my husband and my 4 sons in national and state parks… and that we own chickens!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She had an ability to reach each student on his or her own level
My Passion Outside Of Work: Raising my children, growing in my faith, exercising, and gardening
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in secondary education with a certificate in math and science from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The teachers and staff I work with and the students we get to interact with every day
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Catherine of Siena
My Book Pick For Students: Schooled
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The Vatican
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… love camping!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She had white patent leather go-go boots (circa 1972)
My Passion Outside Of Work: Reading, puzzles, camping, being outdoors
My Education: Bachelor’s degree from Purdue University and teaching license coursework from Notre Dame College
What I Love About St. Hilary School: I enjoy working with the faculty and students, and meeting some of the most wonderful and supportive families
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: My parents
My Book Pick For Students: The Book Thief
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Puerto Rico
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: High expectations and love of subject matter
My Passion Outside Of Work: Coaching
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in adolescent to young adult education in English for grades 7-12 from the University of Dayton
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The kind and caring environment for children to learn their academics as well as their Catholic faith
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Pope Francis
My Book Pick For Students: Beautiful Oops by Barney Saltzberg
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Museums – especially art museums
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… have several pets
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: My favorite teacher was creative and shared his passion for the world of art with his students
My Passion Outside Of Work: Gardening, pets and art
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in art education from Ohio State University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: I love the feeling of belonging to a big family – there’s a lot of love here!
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Francis and my dad
My Book Pick For Students: The Little Engine that Could
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Smyrna, GA (where my daughter and son-in-law live)
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… used to teach ballet
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She made me feel important
My Passion Outside Of Work: Following sports, traveling and spending time with my family
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Akron
Sister Carol Joy Cincerelli, Arts Enrichment Teacher / ccincerelli@st-hilary.org
What I Love About St. Hilary School: So many things, but mostly the love and kindness of my students
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Jesus
My Book Pick For Students: Any book about the lives of artists
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Nearby garage sales to supply my classroom
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… was a cheerleader in high school!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She took an interest in who I was and what I made
My Passion Outside Of Work: Creating art
My Education: Catholic high school, Catholic college (St. John’s College in Cleveland), art school, Siena Heights College, master’s degree in gifted education
Mrs. Weber, Media Center / Makerspace Coordinator / lweber@st-hilary.org
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The people!
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Thomas Aquinas
My Book Pick For Students: A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Any beach, anytime, anywhere!
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… am a true Star Trek fan and my children have taken me to Star Trek conventions for Mother’s Day!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She opened my mind to science and her teaching inspired me to pursue chemistry in college
My Passion Outside Of Work: Learning about new things and being with my grandchildren
My Education: Bachelor’s degrees in biology and chemistry from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: I can teach my subject area and can openly integrate Catholic social teachings into my lessons
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Teresa of Calcutta
My Book Pick For Students: The Once and Future King by T.H. White
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Litchfield Beach, SC
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… have been a Star Trek nerd since I was in high school!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: My high school band director helped me develop my love of music
My Passion Outside Of Work: Reading
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in music education from Kent State University
Mrs. Slanina, Media Center / Makerspace Coordinator / eslanina@st-hilary.org
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The students are very motivated and excited about learning
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Francis of Assisi and St. Jude
My Book Pick For Students: The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill is one of many
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The beach
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… like to run half-marathons
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: My high school English teacher was interesting and engaging and made me love writing and poetry
My Passion Outside Of Work: Spending time with my husband and 3 children
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in English from John Carroll University, master’s degree in education, instructional technology from Kent State University and master’s degree in library science from Kent Stat University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The dedicated staff
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Pope Francis
My Book Pick For Students: The Glass Castle
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: France
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… have been teaching for over 40 years and still love it!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She organized a trip to France that changed my life
My Passion Outside Of Work: Traveling, walking and spending time with family and friends
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in French and mathematics from the University of Akron and master’s degree in education from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: St. Hilary is a great place for students eager to learn and grow in the knowledge and customs of another country!
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Mother Teresa
My Book Pick For Students: Rainbow Fish
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: China (my native country)
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… and my family speak only Chinese at home
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She was strict but always made learning fun, and encouraged her students to be the best they could be
My Passion Outside Of Work: Walking, cooking and enjoying time with family and friends
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Harbin Institute of Technology in China
Mrs. Heuer, Advanced Math Teacher / Technology Facilitator / kheuer@st-hilary.org
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The opportunities for students and my ability to work with students in so many capacities
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Mother Teresa
My Book Pick For Students: The Book Thief
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: California
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… almost chose English as my major – my English teachers in high school and college always used my poems and essays as examples in class!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: His humor, sarcasm and ability to make everything exciting – he gave us class nicknames based on fun popular or historical or fictional characters we looked or acted like!
My Passion Outside Of Work: My family, cooking and exercising
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in education in integrated mathematics from Bowling Green State University and master’s degree in instructional technology with an endorsement in technology facilitation from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: I love the connection between the students, family and faculty – we are able to give so much more to our students than many traditional learning institutions
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Nick Vujicic (“No arms, no legs, no worries.”)
My Book Pick For Students: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Northern Michigan
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… was once in the Rose Garden of the White House
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: My English teacher when I first came to America had a passion for teaching and all of us in the class felt really motivated
My Passion Outside Of Work: Running, gardening, spending time with family and friends, painting, arts and crafts
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering from Pontifical Bolivarian University in Bucaramanga, Colombia; currently working on alternative resident educator license for world languages in grades P-12
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The people! The staff, the families and especially the students
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Francis of Assisi
My Book Pick For Students: The Tale of Despereaux
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Arizona
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… don’t eat cake on my birthday
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: He actually read the entire dictionary
My Passion Outside Of Work: Exercising, gardening and reading
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in business from Ohio University and law degree from Cleveland Marshall College of Law
What I Love About St. Hilary School: All of the different long-standing traditions each class gets to experience
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Saint Pope John Paul II
My Book Pick For Students: The Quiltmaker’s Gift
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: My parents’ home on Thanksgiving Day to be with my entire family
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… worked for the Cleveland CAVS as the Assistant Director of Advertising and Promotions
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: Positive energy that inspired students to do their best
My Passion Outside Of Work: Family, history, and walking
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: This school feels like home! Even though it is steeped in tradition, teaching styles are very innovative
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Anthony
My Book Pick For Students: Rainbow Fish
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The beach
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: I was in the hospital and missed my entire 9th grade year, but three teachers came to tutor me and their kindness, compassion and humor meant the world to me
My Passion Outside Of Work: Cooking and entertaining
My Education: Bachelor’s degree from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: It is a very warm, welcoming and caring environment
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Teresa of Calcutta
My Book Pick For Students: The Beverly Cleary series about Ramona and Henry & Ribsy
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Lake Pointe Inn in Maryland – it’s very quaint and special to my husband and me
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… have 7 children and that outside of St. Hilary I also work with students who are classified as homeless and suspended students who go to a special school
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She was an older lady who was very patient, soft-spoken and kind
My Passion Outside Of Work: Riding my bike, walking, reading, tending my plants, and spending time with my family
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The sense of community in which people are always willing to help each other out
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Elizabeth of Hungary
My Book Pick For Students: The Book With No Pictures
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The Bahamas
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… went skydiving back in my younger days!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She always came up with something creative and interesting for us to do
My Passion Outside Of Work: My family and crafting
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Purdue University and master’s degree in financial engineering from Kent State University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The strong sense of community among the staff and families in an inviting and safe place to build our faith, praying together, serving the community, and the structured and vigorous academic curriculum
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Mary Magdalene
My Book Pick For Students: I Love You, Stinky Face by Lisa McCourt and Syd Moore or the Kingdom Keeper series by Ridley Pearson
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Disney World Parks
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… I ran my first half marathon (which was my first race) through Disney Parks
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She made each of her students feel special by teaching to our individual strengths, making the content relatable and easier to grasp… but she was also strict, organized and had high expectations!
My Passion Outside Of Work: My family – watching them in their activities and traveling together
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in elementary education 1-8 and master’s degree in gifted education K-12, +15 hours in classroom management and technology
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The Catholic, caring environment which nurtures and inspires our students
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Padre Pio (my father attended his Masses)
My Book Pick For Students: Books by James Marshall
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Italy
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… play softball, was a military wife for 14 years, and have moved 8 times!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: My high school chemistry teacher imparted great knowledge and love of the subject
My Passion Outside Of Work: Cooking, reading and working out
My Education: Licensure as a radiological technologist
What I Love About St. Hilary School: I love that St. Hilary School recognizes every child’s God-given potential, as well as the sense of community and dedication of the staff
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Teresa of Calcutta
My Book Pick For Students: The Day the Crayons Quit and The Giving Tree
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Anywhere that is warm and near water
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… went to St. Hilary School!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She had a smile every day and let us do many fun class projects
My Passion Outside Of Work: Spending time with my family, cheering for the Buckeyes, cooking, decorating, shopping, and playing tennis
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in human ecology from Ohio State University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: I love the students and all the cute, funny things they say and do!
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: My mother, who raised 6 children after my father passed away, taught us to be strong and follow our faith
My Book Pick For Students: Charlotte’s Web
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Europe
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… worked in Yellowstone Park for a summer
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: Passion for teaching and caring and compassion for students
My Passion Outside Of Work: My family
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: St. Hilary feels like a family, not just a school
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Marianne Cope
My Book Pick For Students: The Jungle Book
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Naples, FL
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… am scared of flying!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She always asked me about myself and my interests and took the time to learn what I liked and disliked
My Passion Outside Of Work: Planting flowers and watching them grow
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The overwhelming presence of faith
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Mary
My Book Pick For Students: Life After Life by Kate Atkinson
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: San Francisco and Italy
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… have run 13 marathons, and that when I was 10 I had a blue bike with a banana seat that I could stand on with one foot, hold onto the handlebars, and zoom down the street at 40 miles per hour!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She had the most angelic way, a gifted singing voice, the best hugs, and made everyone feel important
My Passion Outside Of Work: My family, helping others, and being active in our Italian club Le Radici
My Education: Attended North Carolina State University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The families attending the school have great relationships both inside and outside the school, resulting in a strong support system for the children
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Cecilia
My Book Pick For Students: When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The ocean
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… grew up on a farm – I loved driving tractors, raising chickens, milking cows, and riding horses!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: He was my father (and my 8th grade math teacher)
My Passion Outside Of Work: Running, rooting for the Cleveland Indians, reading, and traveling
My Education: Associate’s degree in occupational therapy from Cuyahoga Community College, bachelor’s degree in political science and city planning from Ohio State University, and law degree from Case Western Reserve University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The welcoming environment and the ability to work our Catholic faith into education
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Catherine of Siena
My Book Pick For Students: Wonder by R. J. Palacio
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The beach
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… hate public speaking!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She truly cared for all of her students
My Passion Outside Of Work: Being a mom and wife
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in middle school education, math and language arts, from Kent State University
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The wonderful community environment! Students are able to learn and make amazing progress as a result of the collaborative support between the faculty, staff and families
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: My parents – they are my role models in all aspects of my life
My Book Pick For Students: Mr. Popper’s Penguins
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Fort Myers Beach, Florida
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… won several hula hoop contests as a kid!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: My favorite teacher recognized that everyone has different learning styles and was flexible enough to accommodate and foster those differences
My Passion Outside Of Work: Reading and spending time with my husband and family
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology and audiology from the University of Akron and master’s degree in speech-language pathology from the University of Akron
Mrs. Scanlon, Reading Tutor / Intervention Specialist / tscanlon@st-hilary.org
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The family atmosphere
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Mother Teresa
My Book Pick For Students: Because of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The beach
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… live across the street from school!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: Her kindness and compassion
My Passion Outside Of Work: My children
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in political science from Eastern Kentucky University, master’s degree in laws of taxation from Grand Canyon University and master’s degree in special education and reading endorsement from the University of Utah
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The people I work with and the faith community that surrounds us and our children
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Teresa The Little Flower
My Book Pick For Students: From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Kiawah Island
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… love football!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She made me realize that with hard work you can achieve anything
My Passion Outside Of Work: Spending time with my family
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Toledo
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The warm, welcoming atmosphere and feeling of family
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: My younger brother, Duncan, because of all the work and sacrifice it took for him to become a transplant surgeon, his constant quest to learn new things, and his humility in service to others
My Book Pick For Students: Library Lion and The Polar Express
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The beach
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… have a lot of dogs at my house – our own and rescues from time to time
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: My favorites were always those who took an interest in me and made time to talk to and encourage me
My Passion Outside Of Work: My 4 kids and all of their activities!
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in public relations from Miami University and master’s degree and reading endorsement from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The constant support of the Parents’ Association as well as so many parents of students
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Dr. Martin Luther King
My Book Pick For Students: Thank You, Mr. Falker
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: National parks
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… enjoy watching sports
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: My high school biology teacher was a very compassionate person with a wonderful sense of humor
My Passion Outside Of Work: Gardening and walking
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in education from Mount Union College, graduate courses at the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The warm and friendly environment
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: Pope John Paul II
My Book Pick For Students: Little House on the Prairie
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The mountains
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… am an identical twin
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: My anthropology teacher at Ball State instilled in me an appreciation for diversity
My Passion Outside Of Work: Being a mom of 6 kids!
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in special and elementary education from Ball State University and master’s degree in special education from the University of Akron
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The faculty and staff and how they pull together in both positive and difficult situations
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: My father, who taught me to believe in myself
My Book Pick For Students: Oh, The Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The beach
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… love to watch surfing competitions!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She saw my potential in English literature and brought that love of the classics to me
My Passion Outside Of Work: Baking and old movies
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The family community
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: My grandmother, for her Catholic faith and devotion to the Virgin Mother Mary
My Book Pick For Students: Be The Miracle by Regina Brett
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Walt Disney World and Nags Head
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… have been a Catholic school secretary for over 25 years
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She encouraged me to be a leader by making me run for Student Council President!
My Passion Outside Of Work: My family
My Education: Attended Cleveland State University for business and technology classes
Mrs. Sinopoli, Director of Marketing & Admissions / dsinopoli@st-hilary.org
What I Love About St. Hilary School: I love welcoming new students and parents into a school family supported by kindness and prayer
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Pope John Paul II
My Book Pick For Students: The Quilt Maker’s Gift
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Any beach
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… practiced law for many years before working at St. Hilary School
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: My third grade teacher fostered each student’s unique gifts and predicted that I would work in a career involving writing
My Passion Outside Of Work: Home decorating, gardening, reading, walking, boating, and being with my family
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication from Kent State University and law degree from the University of Akron School of Law
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The friendly, fun staff and nice children
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Mary and St. Mother Teresa
My Book Pick For Students: Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Kiawah Island, SC
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… grew up in Canada
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: Her enthusiasm and kindness
My Passion Outside Of Work: Reading and playing golf
My Education: Nursing degree from Ryerson University in Toronto
What I Love About St. Hilary School: It is a great school within a caring, faith-filled community
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Philomena
My Book Pick For Students: Friends till the End (part of the American Girl series)
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Italy
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… have 6 kids
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She challenged us while being completely confident that we were able to accomplish even more than she asked
My Passion Outside Of Work: Spending time with my husband, kids and dogs when we can have a quiet night at home, especially playing board games or reading
My Education: Bachelor’s degree in family services from the University of Northern Iowa and master’s degrees in clinical social work and public administration from Ohio State University
Mrs. Weber, Latchkey Director / Textbook Clerk / pweber@st-hilary.org
What I Love About St. Hilary School: I love that this is a K-8 school and I can watch the students come in as kindergarteners and grow into 8th graders – I miss them when they leave!
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Anne
My Book Pick For Students: Wonder
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Hilton Head Island
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… am married to Mr. Weber and we met in fourth grade!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She let me be the messenger and work in the office
My Passion Outside Of Work: Reading and biking with my family
What I Love About St. Hilary School: The faculty, staff and students
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Francis of Assisi
My Book Pick For Students: Any book that has to do with the great outdoors
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… was chosen to place St. Hilary’s relic in the new altar when the church was remodeled in 1998
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: He gave me a chemistry set
My Passion Outside Of Work: Fishing, kayaking and sports
My Education: Attended McKim Technical Institute and RESE Akron Chapter
What I Love About St. Hilary School: I love how the students at St. Hilary School receive a strong faith-based education while learning and becoming caring members of their community
The Saint or Person Who Inspires Me: St. Francis of Asisi
My Book Pick For Students: Black Beauty and the Nancy Drew mysteries
The Place I Most Enjoy Visiting: The ocean and beach
Students Would Be Surprised To Know That I… have crocheted 15 afghans!
What Made My Favorite Teacher Special: She was my home economics teacher, who taught me many skills I use daily
My Passion Outside Of Work: Reading books, especially mysteries