Mrs. Cathy Biel
A Little About Mrs. Cathy Biel
What is your education background?
I attended St. Symphorosa School and Queen of Peace High School. I received a BS in Psychology from Loyola University. After graduation I worked in the business world until my children were born. While I was home with them I decided to return to school to get my teaching credentials and a Master's degree which I completed at National Louis University. I worked in several public school districts as well as Catholic Schools as a substitute teacher before accepting a second grade teaching position here at St. Alexander in 1993. I taught second grade until 2000 when I became part of the Administrative Team.
1. What do you like about teaching at St. Alexander?
The Saint Alexander family is awesome! The atmosphere is warm and nurturing. The dedicated, well-qualified faculty works as a team with each other, administration, parish staff, and families. Fr. Cronin and Fr. Frank are strong supporters of Catholic education. There is a strong Catholic identity, and excellent academics.
2. Why have you chosen to teach in the Catholic Schools?
My experiences in the public schools left me feeling that something very important is missing there and that is sharing our faith. Being called to ministry in a Catholic environment is an honor. I feel that there is no greater work than helping children know the greatness of God's love.
3. Favorite teaching moment?
It is so hard to pick just one because there are so many! It is always very gratifying to work with a child who struggles or who hates school and help to turn those anxieties and bad feelings around. Many of my favorite teaching moments involve seeing a child who struggles succeed or helping a student who doesn't like school change those feelings for the better.
4. When did you know that you wanted to be a teacher?
I think I always wanted to be a teacher. I admired my aunt who is a BVM and has been involved in education for all of my life. I loved hearing stories about her classroom. I had some wonderful role models in my teachers in elementary and high school, and always enjoyed working with children. I had no thoughts about going into administration until Sr. Diane asked me to join her Administrative Team. I wasn't sure it was for me, but it has challenged me and helped me to grow in many positive ways. I am happy to have experienced it!