Where were you born and raised?
This is the way my mother told me the story of my birth. On a cold, stormy, December evening my father drove his expectant wife to the doctor’s home in Henderson, MN and knocked on his door. Although the doctor had sleepy eyes, he could see there was no time to wait. Spying the chains surrounding my dad’s car tires and thinking his own car may not start, the doctor quickly became a passenger on the way to the nearest hospital in St. Peter, MN! There I was born. I grew up on a small farm operated by my father and mother. It was north of Henderson in Jessenland Township. It was a very rural, Irish Catholic community. Daily rosary, Saturday night Benediction service and Sunday Mass were all part of my family life along with lots of farm chores.
Which schools did you attend?
I attended Henderson Public Elementary and High School. My religious education was at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church through a release time arrangement with the public school. I also attended religious summer school taught by the nuns. After high school I attended Mankato State College where I received my B.S. degree in Elementary Education.
Where were you previously employed?
I have taught both Kindergarten and First Grade in the South Washington County Schools. I also served as director of Trinity Preschool in Watertown.
What brought you to St. Peter’s School?
My family and I are members of this parish and our daughter attended St. Peter’s, so I was familiar with the school. It is gratifying to work at a school where you can teach youth to know, love and serve God.
What do you enjoy most about your career?
I enjoy being in the classroom and working with the students. The personalities of five-year-olds are so unique and delightful.
What are your favorite hobbies/pastimes?
Even though my children are young adults, my favorite times are still family events. I also enjoy traveling, camping, gardening, sewing and reading. Snowmobiling is also fun.
What is your “secret” for working with children on a daily basis?
I work to create the joy of learning in every child. It is my goal that every kindergartner leaves my class knowing learning is fun.
