Archdiocese of Baltimore names teachers of the year

The Archdiocese of Baltimore recognized three teachers of the year May 7 with surprise visits to their classrooms by their principals and Gregory Farno, chancellor for archdiocese schools.

Jennifer Robertson, a math teacher at Archbishop Spalding High School in Severn, was recognized as the Archdiocesan High School Teacher of the Year.

Catherine Kaufmann, an English teacher at Maryvale Preparatory School in Lutherville, was named Independent Catholic School Teacher of the year.

Juliana D’Alessandro, a fourth-grade teacher at St. Mark Elementary School in Catonsville, was recognized as the Archdiocesan Elementary School Teacher of the Year  

“These outstanding educators exemplify the very best of Catholic education through their dedication, compassion and commitment to forming the minds and hearts of their students,” School Sister of Notre Dame Patricia McCarron, superintendent of Catholic schools, said in an email. “Their witness to faith, excellence in teaching and devotion to their school communities inspire not only their students, but all of us who share in the mission of Catholic education. We are deeply grateful for the difference they make each day.”

The teachers were selected by a committee of Catholic school leaders. They will be recognized during a convocation of Catholic Schools at the Church of the Nativity in Timonium in August.

The students at Spalding are “so fortunate” to have Robertson as a math teacher, according to Regina O’Hara, Spalding’s principal, as “she cares for them.”

“She is a phenomenal teacher and also a phenomenal human being,” O’Hara said.

Jennifer Nicholas, assistant head of academics/upper school head, said Kauffmann is a “versatile teacher” who has taught seventh, ninth and tenth grades and AP language. She will teach a new creative writing class next year. 

“She’s a tremendous peer to others, lending a helping hand to colleagues in need,” Nicholas said. “She’s a trusted teacher to all of her students.”

D’Alessandro, according to Terry Ferro, principal at St. Mark, “does things well in and outside of the classroom.” In her five years at St. Mark,  D’Alessandro has spearheaded the Daily 5, a new program initiative focused on small group instruction; has led the fourth grade living Stations of the Cross; is part of the school’s positive behavior team; and coaches the school’s battle of the books team, an after-school activity, according to Ferro.

“Her colleagues describe her all the same way – humble, compassionate, faithful, generous and she doesn’t seek recognition,” Ferro said. “She sees a need and feels a call to serve.”

The Catholic Review will feature profiles on the honorees in the September print issue. 

Email Katie V. Jones at kjones@CatholicReview.org

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