In a distinguished ceremony, St. Mary's Ryken High School recognized two faculty members for their outstanding education and community service contributions. Dr. Aaron Percich was named the 2023 Archdiocese of Washington Veteran Teacher of the Year. Ms. Clara Hayward received the Novice Teacher of the Year accolade, marking their significant impact on the school's academic and extracurricular landscape.
Dr. Percich, a seasoned educator passionate about literature and ethics, has been teaching at St. Mary's Ryken for five years. His academic journey includes a Master's degree from Villanova University and a Ph.D. in English from West Virginia University. Dr. Percich is known for his innovative teaching methods in African American Literature and Medieval and Modern Humanities, fostering a classroom environment that encourages critical thinking and deep analysis. He emphasizes discussion-based learning, guiding students to explore and understand complex literary works and their broader cultural implications. Dr. Percich's commitment extends beyond the classroom; he leads the Knights for Life organization, supporting life-affirming initiatives and participating in the annual March for Life.
Reflecting on his teaching philosophy, Dr. Percich shared, "I feel incredibly blessed to work at St. Mary's Ryken...I am truly and pleasantly taken aback by just how many students can work through the difficulty to offer truly thoughtful and incisive comments about the literature." His approach has cultivated a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment that resonates with Catholic values of care, community, and human development.
Ms. Clara Hayward, in her third year at St. Mary's Ryken, has made a significant mark on the fine arts department, leading to a doubling enrollment in these courses. A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts/Painting and Printmaking, Hayward is pursuing teacher certification through Notre Dame of Maryland University. Her initiatives include enhancing the ceramics space, founding the SMR chapter of the National Art Honor Society, and engaging students in community service through art. Her commitment to using art as a medium for emotional expression and personal growth has transformed the school's approach to fine arts education.
Hayward's innovative teaching methods, such as plein-air painting, have expanded her students' artistic horizons and connected them with the local community through public art projects. Reflecting on her impact, Hayward stated, "Self-expression is a vital aspect of the personal growth of young people. I encourage students to channel unwanted emotions into cathartic works of art."
These recognitions highlight St. Mary's Ryken's commitment to excellence in education and its dedication to nurturing its students' intellectual and moral development. Dr. Percich and Ms. Hayward exemplify the school's mission of fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment, making significant contributions to the academic and cultural vitality of the St. Mary's Ryken community.
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