St. Brigid, like each of our Catholic schools, offers an exceptional education from highly-qualified teachers who are called to this ministry— and their excellence is recognized outside the school building, as well.

This year, assistant principal and reading specialist Sherri Nemeth was recognized by MANS (Michigan Association of Non-Public Schools) and received their Faith-Based Educator Award. “This award is conferred to an educator who exemplifies the very best in faith-based education. Your nominator Laura Wilkowski, and the peer review team, noted your love for learning, embrace of data, leadership and commitment to your ministry as rationale for your selection,” read the press release from MANS.

“Sherri has a very calm manner with students, staff and parents and models the Faith in all that she says and does.  She is a true example of service and dedication in her calling,” said Laura Wilkowski, principal at St. Brigid Catholic School.

“Being a faith-based educator is remarkable. I am able to instill values and virtues in children on a daily basis while teaching core subjects. We are able to make connections between what Jesus did and how we should follow him and his ways,” she said. “I love working with the students and trying to make the lessons engaging and fun while using data to drive my instruction.”

A 17-year veteran of St. Brigid, Sherri has used her gifts in several positions.

“Sherri taught second grade for years.  She inspired kids to do more, try harder and push themselves using a variety of methods,” Laura said, recalling a jar of popcorn kernels and sand Sherri filled when students were well-behaved, tried hard despite challenges or helped one another. When the jar was full, students were rewarded with crazy socks day, stuffed animal days and even a “camping day” — complete with tents and smores.

“Last year, Sherri moved to a much-needed reading specialist role, one she had prior to teaching, and was able to revamp our reading interventions program to include good pre- and post-assessments, track tutoring time and create IRIPs (Individualized Reading Improvement Plans) for students and parents,” Laura said.

In her assistant principal role, Sherri has also helped by mentoring teachers, attending administrative meetings and student discipline. As her ministry evolves, Sherri said she is always learning.

“I have learned that education is ever changing. I have always said I am a life-long learner, and you certainly need to be in education. Knowing new ways to reach and teach all children is ongoing. There are many strategies, but finding the right ones for each individual child is the challenge,” she said.

Sherri views her role not as a job, but as a ministry.

“My ministry is the children. As Jesus said, ‘let the children come to me,’ I too receive joy in being around the children,” she said. “Helping them grow socially, emotionally, spiritually and academically is gratifying. Being able to bring Jesus and his teachings into the classroom on a daily basis is amazing.”