Intermediate School Teachers
The intermediate unit of St. Joseph School is comprised of grades 3, 4 & 5.

Stacey Bonacci
Grade 3 Instructor

Stacy joins us as a recent graduate of Cardinal Stritch University.  She has brought a wealth of new ideas and creative energy into our 3rd grade classroom and has been a wonderful addition to our school. 

Stacey's Philosophy on Education
"I believe that children learn in different ways. As a teacher I am here to provide those different experiences for them, whether it is in the classroom, on field trips, or in the community. It is my job to learn who my students are and to use that knowledge to help them achieve their goals and reach their full potential. It is not only my job to teach students concepts but to teach them to be self sufficient and to be able to find information on their own. I believe whole heartedly in the saying; 'if you give a man a fish he'll eat for a day; if you teach a man to fish he will eat for a lifetime.' I am here to teach children 'how to fish'. I want all my students to succeed and I try to always go out of my way to make sure that happens."

What she likes best about St. Joseph Parish School
"I love teaching at St. Joseph Parish School because of the open and loving community. I have never been to a place where I have felt so accepted by the staff, students, and parents. I observe every day teachers doing as much as they possibly can to help every students that comes through the door."

Amanda Matthews
Grade 4 Instructor

Amanda has an amazing gift of blending the high expectations placed on 3rd grade students with a nurturing and caring classroom atmosphere.  She is an outstanding educator and a vital part of the success of our school. We continue to benefit from her exceptional instruction and care of our children.

Amanda’s Teaching Philosophy
"I believe that children learn through their experiences. Therefore, it is the teacher’s job to provide their students with authentic and meaningful life-long learning experiences, which will benefit them in the future. I also believe that all students have different learning styles. As a result, I strive to design lessons that are challenging, but not frustrating and reach all types of learners in my classroom. Finally, I believe that students learn best when they are allowed to freely express their ideas and opinions. I consistently allow my students many opportunities to discuss classroom material in small and whole group settings. When students are sharing their knowledge with other students they are teaching them what they know. Thus resulting in a deeper understanding of classroom content."

Why does Amanda love Saint Joseph Parish School?
"I really enjoy working at SJPS because of the highly educated, professional, caring and supportive staff. The teachers at this school work very hard to help their students succeed. This can be seen daily through their creative lesson plans, positive attitudes, and nurturing personalities.

The extensive parental support that can be seen at SJPS keeps me coming back each day as well. It is obvious that the parents in this school care about their children’s education deeply. They consistently take time out of their busy lives to donate items to the classroom, come to school and volunteer, and help their child with their homework every night."

Julie Dich
Grade 5 Instructor

We feel so blessed that Julie chose to share her knowledge and expertise in the field of education with our wonderful school.  Attending a Catholic school herself as an elementary student, Julie knows the importance that a Catholic education can have on children and she shares her faith each and every day with her students!
 

Julie's Teaching Philosophy
"I believe that every child has the potential to learn and it is the teacher's responsibility to guide the learning to the best of the ability of the child.  The key is to remember that everyone reaches the same goal, but at different times and through different methods.  Regardless of how long it takes students to reach a certain point, they all eventually get there.  Finally, I strongly believe that it is vital to model the idea that all learners have the right to be included in the learning community to ensure positive human relations for all students."

What Julie likes best about St. Joseph Parish School
"The welcoming and caring atmosphere here at St. Joseph School makes one feel safe, nurtured, and fully supported.  There is always a smile and a warm hello waiting around the corner!  All of that positive energy can't help but spill over to the students, which in turn helps them to learn in the best environment possible."