Ms. Patricia Gintowt

Faculty 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.