Join the mission: openings remain in some schools for faith-filled teachers and aides

Originally posted on www.anchornews.org

Teacher Victoria Raposo of St. Teresa of Calcutta School in New Bedford assists students in the classroom.

FALL RIVER — Even though the hallways of schools are quiet during the summer break, Catholic school administrators in the Diocese of Fall River are busy confirming that their school’s staffing matches the upcoming enrollment.  While staffing is set for the overall majority of the 17 Catholic schools in the Diocese, some schools are still hiring for remaining unfilled teaching positions.  The recruiting for some of the more difficult positions to fill, such as middle school math and science teachers, can typically continue into August.

The filling of all teaching positions with faith-filled, qualified teachers is an utmost priority for school administrators. They understand that the lack of a permanent, full-time teacher can affect enrollment as families are eager to get to know their child’s teacher and have the teacher get to know their child.

“From a recruitment standpoint, our Catholic schools have many wonderful opportunities for people to give of their time and talent, but even more so, there is great value in what you get in return,” says Daniel Roy, Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Fall River.  “What we continually see is the way in which our teachers find a sense of community and faith-based purpose in educating students spiritually and academically that were not apparent in previous work experiences.  This is what Catholic schools are so well-known for and what we continually strive to be.”

Amanda Silva from Holy Name School in Fall River

“As a Catholic school teacher, our goal is to go beyond knowledge and skills in order to open the mind, transform the heart, and ignite the soul to bring students to Jesus Christ,” says Amanda Silva, grade 1 teacher at Holy Name School in Fall River.  “So, when you talk about opening minds of students, you have to create an environment that fosters that. An environment where kids feel comfortable and kids are able to learn freely and be themselves. We’re blessed because we get to weave in a lot of church teachings and God’s love into our curriculum and our lessons.”

Current open positions for Catholic elementary schools range from kindergarten to grades 1, 3 and 4 classroom teachers, along with middle school math, science, religion and ELA positions.  At the high school level, there are openings for a math, accounting, computer science, performing arts and special education teacher.

All job listings are available at www.catholicschoolsalliance.org/job-opportunities