Administration
Mr. Brian Sestito
Principal
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2007
Hometown: Mamaroneck, NY
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
My favorite memory of being in school was my eighth-grade math class. Our teacher, Mr. Reben, was very fun, yet very strict. We always knew that he was in charge and other students did not get in the way of the learning process. He had this special way of connecting with his students……he made us all feel special. I think he was the first teacher who made me feel that way.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
I value the sense of community that exists at St. Patrick. The idea that we get to pray as a school is awesome and it allows us to connect in ways that public schools cannot.
Who or what inspires you most?
I am inspired most by people who take chances and don’t take no for an answer. Dr. Seuss’s first book, “To Think That I Saw Iton Mulberry Street,” was rejected by27 publishers……yet he kept trying.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I spend a lot of time with my wife and two children. I also like to run, walk, snowboard, travel, go to the beach and participate in fantasy football.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
This is a tough one…but I think the most practical is from my dad. He taught me to never spend money that I don’t have.
Mrs. Susan Kern
Assistant Principal
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2008
Hometown: Burbank, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school? Going to St. Finbar with a half dozen of my siblings every day. As if that weren't enough, we carpooled with a few others as well.
What do you value most about St. Patrick? I value our community’s overwhelming desire to help others in need. It speaks well of the community that our members occasionally keep their own family emergencies quiet, knowing that if word got out the whole parish family would overwhelmingly respond. I’ve been on the receiving end of this giving spirit, and can attest to its depth and generosity. It is awesome!
Who or what inspires you most? I am always inspired by witnessing selfless behaviors in others. It is a difficult world in which we live, and remembering to put God and others before yourself is unpopular and often unrecognized. I hope I never miss the opportunity to encounter Jesus in another person, and emulate their example.
What do you like to do in your free time? I read, go on road trips, and spend time with family.
What is the best advice you have ever received? Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
Staff
Mrs. Leslie Franco
Business Manager
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 1990
Hometown: Carlsbad, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
My favorite memory was making new friends.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
I love the caring family atmosphere here at St. Pat’s.
Who or what inspires you most?
Seeing life through my two sons as they have grown into young adults is most inspiring to me.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy walking, cooking, gardening and sharing time with friends and family.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
The way we treat people is the way we treat God.
Ms. Cynthia Orozco
Registrar/Admissions
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 1999
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
My favorite memory is playing tether ball. I loved playing that game!
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
The most important thing I value here at St. Pat’s is our community. It’s family!
Who or what inspires you most?
Charity inspires me the most. I believe in giving first.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love to walk along the beach with my dog. I love to cook for my family and friends and I am an avid reader.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
“Your word is your honor.” My father taught me this!
Mrs. Carla Barnett
Administrative Assistant
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2001
Hometown: El Cajon, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
I have two favorite memories. The first was the 2 years at Holy Trinity I had with my younger siblings in elementary school. It was the only time we were all at the same school together. The second is the great times I had participating in sports throughout my school years.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
What I value most about St. Pat’s is the bond of faith we all share here. Speaking freely about God and integrating it into our daily activities is such a gift. And I love the family atmosphere here!
Who or what inspires you most?
Anyone who uses their God-given talents to the best of their ability inspires me. It makes me want to be the best I can be.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love to spend time with my family which includes my husband and 4 boys (now grown men) and a big extended family. When I’m not spending time with them, I’m usually walking up and down the coast. I love spending time at the beach, especially at low tide.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
The best advice I have received is from my Dad who still to this day repeats this mantra…"Everything in moderation!”
Mrs. Anne Granahan
Health Technician
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2007
Hometown: Oceanside, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
I went to a couple of Catholic elementary schools when I was growing up and each one gave me the same “feelings of comfort of Catholic values.” I guess I would describe that feeling as “home.”
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
I value the work ethic of the faculty and staff. Very hard working!!!
Who or what inspires you most?
I admire people who have positive attitudes. For some, it comes naturally but for most it takes effort and determination!
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to garden and decorate my very eclectic house.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
The best advice I ever received was to love what you do and it will never feel like work!
Mr. Miguel Trujillo
Extended Care Director
Email | BioMember Since: 2021
Hometown: Sacramento, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school? My favorite memory of being in school was competing in every sport I could. I loved playing sports with my friends during school and especially during home games where teachers and classmates cheered us on.
What do you value most about St. Patrick? I value the students most here at St. Pats. I have learned so much from the children and I look forward
to creating new memories with them every day.
Who or what inspires you most? I draw a lot of inspiration from movies. I love all kinds of movies and I believe films are a great source of
creativity for me.
What do you like to do in your free time? In my free time I am mostly playing basketball with my older brother, playing video games with my
friends, going on dates with my girlfriend, or doing some form of physical activity with my family.
What is the best advice you have ever received? The best advice I ever received is “Time heals everything.”
Mrs. Ayla Dias
School Counselor
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2022
Hometown: San Diego, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
My favorite memory of being in school was being a part of the school "family." I looked forward to being on campus at my elementary school every single day because the people made me feel like I belonged.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
I value St. Patrick's commitment to embracing and supporting all its students on their academic, social, emotional, and spiritual journey!
Who or what inspires you most?
My parents inspire me the most because they have encouraged me to always do my best and that it was alright to make mistakes in life as long as I learned from my mistakes, always gave it my all, and acted with an empathetic heart.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time I like to go to the beach, go hiking, and play board games with my family.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
The best advice I have ever received was from my dad. I remember one time my family was mourning the loss of a family member, and my dad said to my sister and I, "The Lord will establish peace for us." - Isaiah 26:12. Ever since that day, that verse has been my family's motto. We all know that no matter what we are going through in life, the Lord is right there besides us. We may not always be able to understand why something is happening, but we can trust in the guarantee that if we remain faithful, the Lord will grant us peace.
Teachers
Mrs. Kara Winkenhofer
K1
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2013
Hometown: Berea, Kentucky
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
In sixth grade I went on a field trip with my class to the nation’s capital, Washington D.C.. I really enjoyed learning about the history of our country and having fun with my friends.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
The quality of St. Patrick Catholic School that I value most is how welcoming all the teachers and families have been to my family and me.
Who or what inspires you most?
My family inspires me to be the best Mom, Wife, Daughter, Sister, Friend and Teacher.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy running and watching my children play soccer and baseball.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
The best two pieces of advice that I have received are don’t sweat the small stuff and live life to the fullest.
Mrs. Sandy Hammond
K2
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2015
Oceanside, California
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
My favorite school memory was when I was in fourth grade. Each person had to trace their body on a long piece of butcher paper. Then we had to design the inside of our body using yarn, spaghetti and glue. I loved it!
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
When my husband and I enrolled our son into the St. Patrick’s kindergarten class, I immediately felt part of a family. The teacher, parents and the school were all friendly and helpful. I felt a sense of community. To this date, I still feel like we, St. Patrick’s, are a family. Everyone looks out and helps one another.
Who or what inspires you most?
My mom inspires me. She is so generous and giving to others. She is a person that I can call on. My mom is also my biggest cheerleader. She is always there for me, my family, and for countless other times. She will open the door to her house to strangers and greet them as longtime friends. Part of her great hospitality is the amazing food she makes. She spreads her joy of cooking with others by sharing those treats or meals with them. I would be happy if I could be at least half as amazing as she is!
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to spend my free time with my family and friends. I love watching my children play their sporting games, going on runs or hikes, and reading.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
The best advice I have ever received was to live life to the fullest and enjoy the ride!
Mrs. Kristy Morgan
1A
Email | BioFaculty Member Since:
Hometown:
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
My third grade year was the best school year I ever had. It was solely because of my teacher, Miss Nelson. She was loving, encouraging, and always had a smile on her face. I always had teachers who were good at teaching but not loving like she was. This is why I know the teacher makes all the difference in a child's life.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
The community of St. Pats is warm and welcoming to everyone. I've never seen a group of parents, administration, teachers, and students that love and support each other the way St. Pats does. Working at St. Pats has been my absolute favorite job I've ever had and I am so excited for my future here.
Who or what inspires you most?
My sister. She is the most selfless, encouraging, uplifting, and loving person I have ever met. She has had so many hardships in her life and she continues to overcome them with love and never has she been bitter about them. She is an advocate for all humans, especially the senior community she is a director at and her daughter. God made my sister especially awesome. Also, my husband inspires me. He doesn't let anything in his way. He is successful in many ways and that is because of his consistency and work ethic. He was so encouraging to me when I went back to school at the age of 36 to become a teacher. I could not have gotten through my program without him cheering for me every single day. Finally, my son inspires me. I know I am biased but never did I think I could create something so beautiful and perfect. He taught me what love is. God has blessed me beyond words that I can express.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love reading, watching sports, baking and cooking, yoga, and having friends over. My favorite sports to watch are tennis, baseball, college football and marathons. My favorite athletes are Roger Federer, Michael Jordan, and Meb Keflezighi.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
"Don't sweat the small stuff and it's all the small stuff". I have a tendency to worry about what may happen or what has happened and it doesn't change the situation. By letting go makes the world and life so much better.
Mrs. Caitlyn Laulhere
1B
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2023
Hometown:
What is your favorite memory of being in school? A few of my favorite memories include: the positive impact of each teacher, friendships created, and my journey of faith. Some of my favorite classes included science, reading, writing, and religion.
What do you value most about St. Patrick? I value that each and every person I have met so far has spoken so highly of St. Patrick's school community! I’m excited to be a part of the community and meet all of you that I haven't already.
Who or what inspires you most? God's beautiful creation: Earth! Traveling locally or globally inspires me. I am inspired by the ocean, sand, mountains, trees, flowers, sunshine, and so much more!
What do you like to do in your free time? In my free time you will find me reading a book, walking by the beach, arts and crafts, yoga, or traveling with my husband.
What is the best advice you have ever received? God has a plan, trust in him. Although this may be a challenge, it is something I always try to remember!
Ms. Patricia Gintowt
2A
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2019
Hometown: Carlsbad, CA / Blue Bell, PA
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
One of my favorite memories of school was when I was in elementary school and we made a Flat Stanley that looked like us. It was so fun to take what we were doing in class and bring it out into the world! We took our Flat Stanley on vacation, and sent it around the country to visit with family. I do this project with my students to help the story come to life, and talk about our lives outside the classroom.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
What drew me to St. Patrick's was the emphasis placed on teaching the whole child, and how service learning is incorporated into our school and parish communities.
Who or what inspires you most?
I am inspired by those who stand up for what is right, even if it's not the popular opinion. I am inspired by my students who try their hardest and do not give up no matter what. I am inspired by those who bring small moments of joy to others.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love reading. I have a goal of reading 50 non-school related books each year. I also enjoy hiking, watercolor painting, and baking. When I lived in Washington D.C., one of my favorite things to do was to go monument hopping with my friends at night to see them lit up.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
The best advice I have ever received is to be flexible. Someone once told me that the feelings of nervousness and excitement activate the brain in almost the same areas. So, if you are feeling nervous, tell yourself you are excited and see how the situation changes. By changing your mindset, you open up to many new opportunities. Being flexible and open to change is the key to being a successful learners and teacher.
Mrs. Nicole Nash
2B
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2007
Hometown: Somis, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
I have many fond memories of school. I loved jumping rope on the Kindergarten playground, playing handball against the two-story school wall after school, and earning an award in sixth grade for reading 60 books. My favorite memory of school is seventh grade science with Mrs. Shehorn. Collectively, we students were the sun, while she was the moon. She proceeded to orbit around us while spinning on her axis. Picture a 4’11” woman running around the perimeter of the classroom while twirling ballerina-style. Mrs. Shehorn made learning fun!
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
I value the St. Patrick school and parish community. I am edified by the fellowship I enjoy on campus and at Mass, but also when I encounter St. Pat’s friends around town and even on vacation. I feel that I belong to something, and that connection motivates me to grow in the faith and strengthens my commitment to ministry. I attended Catholic schools from Kindergarten through college, but I first recognized the importance of that community at my grandfather’s funeral in 1999. In attendance were my second grade teacher and many others who represented my childhood link from home to school to church. St. Patrick’s in that kind of place, too. Where else is school closed so that we can celebrate the life of dear small one lost to cancer?
Who or what inspires you most?
Good teachers inspire me. I admire their passion, creativity, and dedication. One of the most inspiring teachers I have known is Fr. Bill Miscamble at the University of Notre Dame. He taught the freshman survey course in U.S. History to about ninety students. The room was always sweltering, either from the muggy heat outside or the dry heat of the radiator, but he persevered and brought history to life. His Australian accent and sense of humor are legendary. He knew each student by name and never forgot! I took every class he taught (although I never got an A) and changed my major to history. I sought him out for daily Mass and benefitted from his wise counsel and friendship. Since graduating, I’ve purchased every book he’s written, but, honestly, the only one I’ve read is Keeping the Faith, Making a Difference. Despite his best efforts, I’m no history scholar, but he did teach me to seek God and to do His holy work. All that, because he remembered my name.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Easy question! I like to read. I read every day without fail, even if only for 5 or 10 minutes before my tired eyes falter. I usually read at night, because reading during the day seems so indulgent. However, in summertime I play a little game with myself. I read children’s books during the day and call it “work”, then save my grown-up reads for bedtime. My family also enjoys audio books on road trips–the audio versions of The BFG and Artemis Fowl are awesome! When my eyes go buggy and I need to move around, I like to ride bikes, go to the beach, and play pickleball. I also like cooking, quilting, playing games, and building puzzles. Mostly, I like to read.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
My dad is generous and wise. When I went to college, he said I could study whatever I wanted but I had to take at least one semester of Accounting and one semester of Economics. So, senior year, in addition to Ceramics and yet another course in U.S. foreign policy with Fr. Bill, I risked irreversible damage to my GPA and took both. I graduated with honors and, with my history degree in hand, landed a job as a greeter at the Gap. When this great job threatened to impact my Thanksgiving weekend plans at the Notre Dame-USC game, I quit. I took a job in the accounting department of an insurance company, for which I was qualified because I took accounting in college and worked accounting jobs during summer breaks. Soon thereafter, disgruntled with my tedious employment, my dad offered some more good advice. He said, “Do something that matters.” I became a teacher.
Ms. Eileen Griffin
3A
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2019
Hometown: Calabasas, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
I had some amazing teachers who appreciated my energy. They all had their little ways of channeling my energy to succeed in school. My fifth grade teacher however, is the one teacher who stands out. When I was in fifth grade I was obsessed with all of the Halley Mills movies, especially The Parent Trap. My teacher knew this and in order to encourage me to complete a summary of my favorite story, she promised the whole class we could watch the movie during the last week of the school year. I am reminded of this special treat each year as my students and I wrap up all our own end of the year assignments.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
The community of St. Patrick is all about welcoming the stranger and treating everyone like family. From the moment I became a parishioner and parent of the school, everyone has always been kind and caring. It is a blessing to be a part of the St. Patrick family.
Who or what inspires you most?
The sound of children laughing, the ocean, and music inspire me.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I LOVE to read, go to the beach, bake, go to Disneyland from time to time. I especially enjoy re-reading my favorite book series (you will have to try and guess what it is ;0)).
What is the best advice you have ever received?
The best advice I have ever received came from one of my students. One Lenten season he decided our whole class should practice living our lives with JOY (Jesus, Others, and Yourself) during the 40 days of Lent. Seven years later, I still try to live each day with JOY.
Mrs. Claire Killeen
3B
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2018
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
One of my favorite memories is the Bicentennial Celebration in 1976. I was in first grade and our school had a huge party with patriotic music, and we each released a balloon with a message written inside. It has inspired me to live for the Tricentennial Celebration (yes, I’ll be VERY old).
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
I am looking forward to sharing a faith community with my students and with the staff. We are very fortunate to be able to not only practice freedom of religion, but to be able to do so in school is amazing! It is a freedom that should never be taken for granted.
Who or what inspires you most?
I am inspired most by children. Seeing their unwavering faith, complete honesty and true joy in life helps me daily to remember that we are all children of God. I often get stressed out by petty, adult issues in life, but looking at life through the eyes of a child reminds me to be thankful for the little things and rejoice in each day.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love to spend time with my family and people I love. I love to bake (anything chocolate!), read, take long walks, cuddle with my pg, take dance classes, surf the internet, travel or plan trips, and explore places I’ve never been.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
My mom always told me growing up, “Variety is the spice of life!” We moved a lot, and I always dreaded change. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found the wisdom in her words and now see how change, although sometimes hard, pushes me to grow in new areas and try things I’d normally stay away from. It really does keep life fun and exciting.
Mrs. Vanessa Fanchin
4A
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 1995
Hometown: Bethesda, Maryland
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
Besides playing four square and kickball at recess, one of my earliest and favorite memories while in parochial school is my brother crowning Mary when he was in first grade at Holy Spirit Catholic School in North Carolina.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
I value St. Patrick Catholic Community most for its impact on my spiritual growth and for the opportunity to work in an environment where I can celebrate and practice being a catholic Christian daily.
Who or what inspires you most?
I have been most inspired by my husband, my own parents, and my grandparents.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time you might find me with my family or friends, playing volleyball or running, reading or learning something, cooking, listening to Catholic Radio or country music, or enjoying the outdoors.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
I have received a lot of great advice from wise people. However, I often call upon these words of wisdom: Saint Augustine’s words, “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in you.” Our family motto, “It’s not all about you.” Sports motto, “There is no I in TEAM.”
Mrs. Andrea Garms
4B
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2024
Hometown: Oceanside, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school? My favorite memory of being in school was building my California mission, San Juan Capistrano. I also vividly remember intense games of handball.
What do you value most about St. Patrick? I value the community most at St. Patrick. Growing up at this parish in such a warm and welcoming environment has been a gift.
Who or what inspires you most? My grandparents and parents inspire me the most in my life. My grandfather taught me and everyone he touched true unconditional love. My grandmother has taught me strength. My dad continues to be a guiding light through life who has taught me to be an independent critical thinker. My mom is my rock who somehow has the energy and power to do it all!
What do you like to do in your free time? In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family. A walk on the beach with a good cup of coffee. I also enjoy cooking authentic Italian meals for my family.
What is the best advice you have ever received? The best advice I have received is that you will be faced with challenges all the time in life, but the productive struggle is how you grow. Continue to work hard, maintain grit, and be proud.
Mrs. Karen Hoyle
5A
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 1981
Hometown: Newton, New Jersey
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
My fondest memory of elementary school was playing the lead role of Nancy in Oliver when I was in 7th grade. In high school I was Varsity cheer captain in my junior year.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
I value the camaraderie from all the teachers at St. Patrick.
Who or what inspires you most?
I am inspired most by people who take chances and don’t take no for an answer. Dr. Seuss’s first book, To Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street, was rejected by 27 publishers……yet he kept trying.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I would dance ballet every day if I had the chance. I also like to run, letter, read, and spend time with whatever family member is around.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Don’t make judgments on anyone, anywhere, anytime. We are all trying to do the best we can.
Ms. Abby Tarantino
5B
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2022
Hometown: San Rafael, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
My favorite memory of being in school is the relationships I built with my teachers and how I looked up to them. I had some pretty special teachers who played kickball on the yard with us, threw epic class parties, and took the time to get to know each student. I always knew that I wanted to be like my teachers one day and now here we are!
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
I value St. Patrick’s strong Catholic identity and the close community. Everyone is warm, welcoming, and supportive. I am looking forward to getting to know everyone here and am excited for a fantastic year!
Who or what inspires you most?
My mom has always been my role model who inspires me the most. She is my rock, my best friend, and I look up to her in so many ways. My mom is truly a woman for others. She is selfless, loving, and has strong conviction in her beliefs. I don’t know where I’d be without her.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, you will find me doting on my pup Sadie! We enjoy going for long walks, playing at the beach, and lunching with friends together. I also love photography and watching basketball (especially during March Madness - go zags!).
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Everyone you meet is fighting a battle or carrying a cross you know nothing about, so be kind. My sister also introduced me to the phrase “do something once a day that scares you”, which has been a great motivator to get out of my comfort zone.
Ms. McKenna Pigoni
6A
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2020
Hometown: Upland, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
My favorite memory of being in school is from the time I spent at 6th grade camp. It was the first time I was away from home and I learned so much through hands on activities and experiences outdoors. I loved the night time hikes and getting to experience it all with my classmates!
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
I really value the community based environment that St. Patrick has to offer for their staff, families, and students. It is obvious that the school is built on the foundation of love and focuses on including all people involved in our students’ lives to help support them in finding success in all that they do!
Who or what inspires you most?
I think my mom inspires me the most in my life because she is the most strong and independent woman I know. She lives her life driven by compassion and care for others and is always there for my family and our friends whenever we need here. To this day, if I need anything or need help making a tough decision, she is always the first person I call!
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time I like to be active and spend time outdoors. I love to play sports, especially soccer, and go on walks in my neighborhood. I also enjoy cooking and baking new and interesting foods as often as I can. Lastly, I love to craft and make new things for myself to enjoy
What is the best advice you have ever received?
The best advice I ever received was to take a deep breath and not sweat the small stuff. In life we are faced with many challenges, some big and some small, and it is important to remind ourselves to not focus on the small things that are out of our control. I think of this every time I am worried about something that I shouldn’t be and then I am reminded to take a deep breath and focus on the more important things in life!
Ms. Priscilla Trastoy
6B
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2023
Hometown: Paterson, New Jersey
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
My favorite memory of being in school was working on a project with peers for National History Day. We got to go beyond what we were learning in the classroom, and were challenged to research the relevancy and impact that a historical person had on our lives today. We competed with other students from around the state, and although we did not win, I learned the value of what it meant to work with a team and how to connect with the historical events of the past. This has allowed me to grow in deeper gratitude of the freedoms we have today, all beginning with a school project.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
I am very new to the St. Patrick school community, but thus far my experience of it through the staff members I have come to know has already made it feel like home. Everyone has been incredibly warm and welcoming. I truly do value having a community of support, and I can already tell that St. Patrick will be this sort of environment where I can grow and help grow others.
Who or what inspires you most?
The Saints have always inspired me in their dedication to a life with Christ. When I was thirteen, I read The Story of a Soul, given to me by my sweet mother. To this very day, St. Therese remains one of my favorite Saints. Her “Little Way” has showed me that anyone can strive for holiness. I try my best to live a life of virtue, so I always defer back to the reading about the Saints when I need more encouragement!
What do you like to do in your free time?
On my free time, I like to entertain several different hobbies. I enjoy hiking and sightseeing. I can be a bit of a social butterfly, so I do enjoy making and maintaining friendships by spending quality time with others. As extroverted as I am, I also enjoy downtime to read and reflect, normally doing so through my writing. I especially love writing poetry, and that is when I best express the theological and philosophical thoughts I have in free verse.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
The best advice I’ve ever received is that you must “Be who you want to be for yourself before you are that for someone else.” It’s a reminder that I must be patient and kind to myself, so I can in turn be that for others - the list goes on. Having these healthy boundaries in place has allowed me to safeguard my leave, and I would only hope that I can continue in this as to better love and serve those around me.
Mrs. Sonia Tye
7A Religion/Junior High Science
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2023
Hometown: Rancho Cucamonga, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
What do you value most about St. Patrick? I have been so impressed by how caring my son’s teachers and the staff have been since we joined the school just a few years ago.
Who or what inspires you most? I love helping others. It brings me great joy.
What do you like to do in your free time? I love to read and watch old movies. Family movie night is a big deal at my house.
What is the best advice you have ever received? “Jesus, I trust in You” ~ St. Faustina
Mrs. Leslie Case
7B Religion/Junior High Math
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2023
Hometown: Port Orange, FL
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
What is your favorite memory of being in school? I just always really liked school, which was probably annoying to many of my classmates. I looked forward to going back to school every year, I really liked most of my teachers, I liked being with my friends, and I loved learning. Both of my parents were also teachers, so school was a big, happy part of my life.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
My only experience in education before coming to St. Patricks was in the public school system. As parents, when we went to our first St. Patrick’s PTG meeting in 2007, we were overwhelmed that we prayed beforehand. There was something very powerful about a community praying for our children together that I had not experienced before in an educational setting. Sharing our faith, as we learn and grow together is invaluable.
Who or what inspires you most?
My faith in Jesus through the Catholic Church is what inspires me most. Jesus has given us the most incredible gift of himself in the humblest of ways, the Eucharist. He is the creator of the universe, yet he comes down to our level to meet us in bread and wine.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Spend time with family, hike, read, go to the beach, go for walks with friends and Johnny (our spoiled dog) , pray and learn more about my faith
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Stay close to God, and don’t compare yourself to others.
Mr. Jim Burke
8A / Junior High History
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2013
Hometown: Denver, CO
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
Mr. Marsh’s 8th grade U.S. History class at North Arvada Junior High is my favorite memory.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
The spirit of love and community shared by students, teachers, and parents is what makes this school so wonderful.
Who or what inspires you most?
The boundless energy and optimism of middle school students inspires me most.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I like to read, work crossword puzzles, hike, bicycle, cook fabulous meals, travel, and watch sports.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
The best advice I’ve ever received is, “Always follow your dreams and never give up!” and “The answer to an unasked question is always no-it never hurts to ask!”
Mrs. Marion Smithson
Music
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2020
Hometown: Capistrano Beach, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school? My favorite memory was the excitement of the first day of school. I enjoyed all my teachers and looked forward to learning. I appreciated all the different teaching styles.
What do you value most about St. Patrick? When I first visited St. Patrick’s, I felt the warmth of everyone I met. My second visit, I was touched by the flowers to Mary and the invitation to the Consecration of Mary. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and contribute to this kind and faith-filled family.
Who or what inspires you most? My family inspires me to be the best person I can be to all.
What do you like to do in your free time? I enjoy any time with family and friends, arts and crafts of all kinds, and spending time outdoors.
What is the best advice you have ever received? My father and father-in-law always said and modeled “Whatever you do, Give it 100%."
Mr. John Martin
Physical Education
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2006
Hometown: Chicago, IL
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
Receiving a solid Catholic education and participating in sports are my best memories.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
I value the students most here at St. Pat’s.
Who or what inspires you most?
Jesus inspires me most. He has helped me through my life.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to spend my free time with my ten grandchildren, either at our house, or on one of our family adventures (like Bass lake every year for a week).
What is the best advice you have ever received?
I will continue to teach as long as I can make one child smile each day that I teach.
Mr. Albert Tejero
Physical Education
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2010
Hometown: San Diego, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
The day the light came on in my head. I was sitting in class on day at SDSU and all of a sudden everything in life started to make sense.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
That family comes first…
Who or what inspires you most?
My parents inspire me the most.
What do you like to do in your free time?
When I do get free time, I love to sit and lazy around.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Don’t compare your struggles to anyone else’s. Don’t get discouraged by the success of others. Make your own path and never give up.
Mrs. Shannon Farwell
Learning Support Coordinator
Email | BioFaculty Member Since: 2002-2007, 2014
Hometown: San Dimas, California
What is your favorite memory of being in school?
I have several favorite memories of being in school that span over the course of my education. One of my early favorite school memories is winning the school-spelling contest in first grade. Another highlight was making the Sacrament of Confirmation in eighth grade. I distinctly remember the strength and faith I felt that day. Finally, earning my bachelor and master degree diplomas reminds me of the importance of being a life long learner and having family and friends to support you along the way.
What do you value most about St. Patrick?
I value the compassion within every single person in the St. Patrick Community. This compassion drives this selfless community to help others and lift them up. This creates a safe environment to work, learn and play in. “Our human compassion binds us the one to the other – not in pity or patronizingly, but as human beings who have learned how to turn our common suffering into hope for the future.” –Nelson Mandela
Who or what inspires you most?
My family inspires me the most. I have a large extended family that has been a wonderful role model. They instilled a strong work ethic in me and taught me to be strong, loyal, generous, and compassionate. My family is always there when I need them. I use these models to motivate my own children and students to learn and be the best citizens they can be.
What do you like to do in your free time?
What don’t I like to do in my free time? I enjoy traveling around the world experiencing the different food, cultures and churches. I revel in anything that involves being active: camping, surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, hiking, weightlifting, yoga and cycling. I love watching my children play sports and goof around outdoors. I also like to play board games, cards and read with my children. I strive to eat healthy and enjoy cooking with help from my husband and children.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
I have received endless worthy advice so I am picking the first message that comes to mind. This is a quote by a brave little girl. “There is always something to believe in.” I try to model my existence by the positivity and inspiration within this quote. It reminds me that miracles happen everyday and to follow my dreams.
Mrs. Denise Douglass
Spanish
Email | BioStaff Member Since: 2021
Hometown: Leucadia, CA
What is your favorite memory of being in school? One of my favorite memories is being a student in Señora Bravender’s 8th grade Spanish class. She was funny and clearly loved teaching. Her class was productive and fun!
What do you value most about St. Patrick? I’m excited to teach at a faith-based school.
Who or what inspires you most? This verse inspires me: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10
What do you like to do in your free time? I love working on projects around the house and in the yard, searching for new teaching ideas and fun classroom activities, working out and Jazzercising, spending time with my husband and our ten-year-old dog, and enjoying time with our three kids.
What is the best advice you have ever received? Whatever you do, do your best.