Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Catholic school educators from the Archdiocese of Louisville gathered on October 30 for an annual teacher appreciation luncheon. The event, organized by the Office of Catholic Schools, honored 197 teachers celebrating milestone years of service ranging from five to fifty years.

Dr. Mary Beth Bowling, superintendent of schools, acknowledged the significant impact these educators have had on their students' lives. "You have totally forgotten, but they haven’t," she said. "And many times it has to do with the way you share the teachings of Jesus by your words and actions."

Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre shared a personal story about a Catholic school teacher who influenced his life direction during seventh grade. His teacher's inquiry about his future aspirations led him to reveal his interest in becoming a priest for the first time. Archbishop Fabre emphasized the importance of being witnesses rather than just teachers, quoting St. Paul VI: “Modern man listens more willingly to witnesses than to teachers.”

Among those recognized was Rose Willenborg from St. Paul School, marking ten years of service and expressing her growing appreciation for Catholic education as her daughter begins school.

Ernesto Laspiur from Mercy Academy celebrated fifteen years and spoke about finding joy in teaching within a Catholic environment after leaving finance. Gail King at St. Dominic School also shared her positive transition from public schools.

The longest-serving educator honored was Michael Glaser from St. Xavier High School with fifty years of dedication.