Sister Patricia Gehling, SSND, Principal

I am a member of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, an international congregation of Sisters. I have a B.A. in Elementary Education/English, M.A. in Elementary Administration Licensed/Certified in Arizona.

Philosophy of Education

As an administrator, I do try to flesh out the creative talents of the teachers and staff. I am organized, consistent and systematic in my work and approach to jobs of administration. I believe no matter how organized an administrator is, his/her "job" is never an 8:00-5:00 one. There are always unforeseen phone calls, unscheduled meetings, etc. As a key public relations person of the school, the administrator is always "on call".

I believe in and promote the traditional practices of the Catholic Church, e.g. Stations of the Cross, Rosary, Advent/Lenten practices and Mary celebrations. Additionally, I believe and publicly encourage children to pray for requested intentions.

I believe in sharing school responsibilities with faculty and staff, volunteer committees, School Board members and the PTO.

I give a listening ear and heart to teachers, staff, students and parents. I know I am firm when it is needed and try to be patient and non-directive when appropriate. Teachers do share classroom experiences, good and bad, with me; students will often share non-school happenings and parents are quick to let me know of family happenings/circumstances.

I firmly believe in Catholic education and its future and my role in it.

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