St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic School

Stepping into my new role as a second grade teacher four years ago, I have found it to be refreshing, memorable and exciting! I now look forward to my fourth year with as much enthusiasm! One of the true highlights of teaching second grade is preparing the students for two very special sacraments – Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist!

My previous thirteen years at St. Thomas School were spent teaching sixth grade, which I loved as well! Reflecting back before my children were born, I had the experience and joy of teaching in the primary grades for eight years. My formal education includes a B.S. degree in Elementary Education from Illinois State University and an M.S. degree in Elementary Education from Purdue University.

My husband Andy and I have been married for nearly 31 years and have three adult children. Our 26 year old son Mike graduated from the Illinois Institute of Art in Chicago with a degree in Media Arts. He landed a job with an advertising firm in Chicago, Farm CP, and couldn’t be more blessed to be working and living in the city. His twin brother Chris graduated from Northern Illinois University with a degree in Marketing four years ago, and is presently employed by Interact Business Products in Wood Dale. He resides in Schaumburg and was married in February 2011. Our 21 year old daughter Megan is presently attending Columbia College in Chicago and loves the city life as well! She is pursuing a degree in Interior Architecture and Design. Andy and I continue to be empty nesters for the second year!

All of our children are graduates of St. Thomas School, just like their mother. St. Thomas holds a very special place in my heart, both as an alumnus and a teacher. My graduation picture is even found on the “Wall of Fame” in the hallway near the office; however, I just can’t reveal how close to the office door that may be! J

pvoloch@stthomascl.org

This is my ninth year teaching Second Grade at St. Thomas School. I love teaching and I feel very fortunate to be here. I strongly believe in Catholic education and I know that God guided me to St. Thomas School seven years ago. Before I came here, I taught Kindergarten, Second Grade, and Junior High for the Oakland Diocese in California.

My husband and I were born and raised in Illinois so relocating to Illinois was actually coming home. Our hearts are now in both Illinois and California. Our two older children, Joe and Jessy, live and work in the Los Angeles area. When our youngest daughter, Stephanie, and her family moved to Illinois in April, 2003, my husband and I knew that we couldn’t be separated from our two grandchildren so we came, too.

Over the years our family has changed and grown. We now have seven grandchildren, one girl and six boys. Four of them belong to our daughter Stephanie Pacheco, who is teaching Kindergarten here at St. Thomas this year. Two belong to our daughter Jessy, who lives in Los Angeles. Our son, Joe, who also lives in the Los Angeles area became a dad on June 1, 2011. We are thrilled!

My philosophy in education is to teach the state standards in such a manner that children want to learn and can be successful in the classroom. This may be through working in Literacy Stations, writing answers on their whiteboards, or playing a game, etc.

As your child’s teacher, I promise you that I will always treat your child with love and respect; just as I wanted my children to be treated and how I now want my grandchildren to be treated.

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mabiggins@stthomascl.org