We are so excited to highlight this teaching team. These two lead teachers, Ms. Paciga and Ms. Emmanuella, have been working together for the past two years. We are so thankful for their partnership and all they bring to their classroom. It is such a joy to see them in action with their students. We are so proud of you both and all the amazing things you do at Parish Day School! Congratulations!
What brought you to the field of Early Childhood Education?
(Ms. Emmanuella) The experiences we had with our son in preschool led me to want to understand childhood development and how children respond to different ways of learning. Knowing I could help children grow and become independent drove me to pursue this field.
(Ms. Paciga) How much I love working with children! I have worked in the public schools for many years with grades K-12. When an invitation to come teach at a preschool arose, I thought I should give it a try. By doing this I realized I had found my people! This is where I was supposed to be! I have loved teaching preschool for the past 15 years.
Why did you want to teach at Parish Day School?
(Ms. Paciga) Parish Day School was such a beautiful school. It gives children so many opportunities to learn and explore. It is truly a wonderful place to be for the students and the staff. I feel very blessed to be part of such a great school!
(Ms. Emmanuella) While in school for Early Childhood education, I performed a few case studies at Parish Day School. I felt the program at PDS aligned with my style of teaching
and I was attracted to the warm, safe atmosphere the teachers provided for the children.
Do you have a role model or hero that inspired you?
(Ms. Emmanuella) My kids are my heroes. They both learn in such different ways, and I love watching them hit milestones in learning. All teachers at PDS are my role models. Everyone has given me great support and helped me improve my way of teaching.
(Ms. Paciga) Yes, Both my mom and dad. They were so kind, loving, and caring. They were also such examples of integrity and grace. They definitely inspired me to be the best that I could be.
What do you bring to Parish Day School that makes you unique?
(Ms. Paciga) ooooo well, I try to be very positive, compassionate, and encouraging everyday with my students and parents.
(Ms. Emmanuella) A creative mind. I always try to put a little twist on some of the themes we use to teach, and I think of how I can keep all the children interested in what we are learning.
What is your teaching philosophy?
(Ms. Emmanuella) I believe all children learn differently and it takes understanding each individual child at a personal level to be able to properly teach them.
(Ms. Paciga) Every day is a fresh start! To make every day a fun filled day of learning and exploring new things. To provide a classroom full of creativity, individuality, and love.
What is your favorite thing about being part of the Parish Day School Team?
(Ms. Paciga) Working with such a fantastic group of people! We are a team and a family.
(Ms. Emmanuella) I love when we can come together as a team and overcome obstacles, we face every day.
Do you have a favorite time of year at Parish Day School?
(Ms. Emmanuella) The Week of the Young Child. All the excitement the children experience when we encourage them to be healthy and active using hands-on, collaborative activities.
(Ms. Paciga) Not really. There are so many interesting and fun things to learn about throughout the entire school year!
Do you have a favorite quote or motto?
(Ms. Paciga) Always remember to live in faith, not fear and to spread love wherever you go.
(Ms. Emmanuella) “The goal of education is not to increase the amount of knowledge but to create the possibilities for a child to invent and discover. “-Jean Piaget