Teacher of the Year Works at St. Justin Martyr School

A third grade teacher with a doctorate degree, working at , was named Distinguished Teacher of the Year nationwide by the National Catholic Education Association.

Mary O'Connell was recognized with the award in April at the NCEA convention, in New Orleans.

According to St. Justin Martyr School officials, O'Connell "received the award for her use of the best teaching practices and her leadership in all aspects of the Catholic faith life." 

O'Connell highlights:

• Twelve years teaching at St. Justin Martyr School
• Taught second and third grades
• Spent one year teaching at St. Joan of Arc
• B.A. in Education, St. Louis University 
• M.A. in Special Education from St. Louis University
• Ph.d. with emphasis on curriculum and instruction from St. Louis University.

O'Connell had this to say:

“I have been blessed to work at such an innovative school with such an amazing faculty and staff. I have had the opportunity to work for two wonderful principals who have allowed me to be creative in my teaching,” O'Connell said after learning of the award, according to school officials.

Principal Beth Bartolotta of St. Justin Martyr had this to say about the distinguished teacher:

“Dr. O’Connell is held in high regard by all with whom she works, as a great model of a master teacher and visionary leader. Mary’s contributions to the academic environment of our school are astounding, but it is her contributions to the faith community that contribute the most to our mission as a Catholic school," Bertolotta said in a press release.

St. Justin Martyr School is located at 11914 Eddie & Park Road, in Sunset Hills.