The University of St. Francis annually honors an outstanding elementary or secondary Catholic School teacher with the Bishop Joseph L. Imesch Award for Excellence in Teaching. This year's recipient is St. Joseph School's second grade teacher, Mary McGlone. The award is presented during the College of Education’s “Breakfast with the Bishop” during Catholic Schools Week.
This award was established in the year 2000, on the occasion of Bishop Imesch’s celebration of 25 years of spiritual leadership as bishop of the Diocese of Joliet and in recognition of his commitment to Catholic Education. The College of Education invites each school community to nominate a faculty member teaching in the Catholic schools of the Joliet Diocese.
The honoree possesses the spirit of leadership and commitment, which is the foundation of Catholic education, as well as demonstrates excellence in teaching; is a recognized Christian role model; and serves the educational community by sharing personal talents and time for the greater good of the community.
McGlone was chosen by representatives from the University and the Joliet Diocese. There are over 900 teachers and 62 schools in the Diocese.
The award is in recognition of Mrs. McGlone's excellence in teaching as demonstrated through a student-centered learning environment, which supports the intellectual, spiritual, social, and personal development of all students.
“Mrs. McGlone serves as a Christian role model among students, faculty, and administration as reflected in a professional life consistent with the mission and goals of Catholic education,” said principal, Rita Stasi, adding, “She is further recognized for service in the education community as demonstrated by a personal dedication to share ones time, talent, and concern for the community.”
This is the second award for McGlone. In 2006, she received the Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club Outstanding Teacher Award.
As the award winner of the Bishop Imesch Award, Mrs. McGlone will also receive a monetary stipend from the University of St. Francis and will have her name engraved on a plaque displayed at the University.
“St. Joseph will definitely be celebrating Mrs. McGlone’s recognition during our upcoming Catholic Schools Week celebrations. I invite the community to come celebrate with us and see what our school has to offer,” said Stasi.
St. Joseph School’s Open House is Sunday, January 29, 2012 from 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. All are welcome to attend and participate in the many planned activities. The school provides a Catholic education for PreK3 – 8th grade, and is located at 4832 Highland Avenue, Downers Grove.
For more information or to schedule a personal tour, contact Amy Marciniak at 630-971-1962 or go to www.stjosephdg.org.
