Faculty & Staff
Administration
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Nicole Loseto B.A., M.S., M.Ed
Principal
nloseto@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgNicole Inez Loseto is a seasoned principal with over 25 years of experience in Catholic education. Holding an Advanced/Endorsed VPK Director Credential, a BA in History, and two master's degrees in education and educational leadership, she leads with transformational, student-centered vision. Nicole’s diverse background, including law and finance, enhances her strategic leadership, focusing on academic excellence and fostering a nurturing school environment.
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Kelly Wiand M.Ed
Assistant Principal
kwiand@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI am a proud graduate of St. Jude School and St. Petersburg Catholic High School. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Florida and my master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Barry University. I have proudly served in the Diocese of St. Petersburg for 30 years (28 years at St. Jude and 2 years at St. Cecelia), and I’m thrilled to serve as the Assistant Principal for the 2025-2026 school year.
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Bryant Combs
Director of Engineering, Coding and Robotics
bcombs@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgWith a Bachelor's in Teaching and a Master's in Educational Technology from Morehead State University, he brings expertise in technology integration and hands-on learning. As a certified principal, he is committed to fostering a dynamic classroom where middle school students explore engineering, robotics, and problem-solving. Through engaging projects and real-world applications, Mr. Combs empowers students to think creatively and embrace the possibilities of STREAM.
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Dr. Ann Davis
Supervisor of School
Dr. Davis joined the Diocese of St. Petersburg in August, 2016, serving as the Associate Superintendent. She possesses a BS with an emphasis in Elementary Education from Quincy University, an MA with an emphasis in Educational Administration from the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and a Ph.D. with an emphasis in Education from St. Louis University. Outside of work, she enjoys golf, bike-riding, and yardwork in the beautiful weather of Florida. She also enjoys reading, the theatre, and dining out with friends.
Early Education
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Giovanna Coughlin
Assistant Preschool Director
gcoughlin@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI grew up in upstate New York. Went to school in Buffalo got a degree in social work/counseling, Got married, Had two children then decided to move to Florida in 2000. I began working as a floating assistant, temporally taught different grades. I obtained a level two Director certificate. And have been blessed to mentor two directors.
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Tricia Dees
EC2 Teacher
tdees@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgFor the past 14 years, I’ve been working at the Cathedral School of St. Jude—but I don’t like to call it “work,” because teaching 2-year-olds is truly my passion. Every day, I feel so blessed to do what I love—helping little ones grow, explore, and discover the world around them. One of the greatest joys in my role is teaching the children all about their Catholic faith and God’s love. It’s an incredible honor to help lay a spiritual foundation that will guide them throughout their life.
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Raine Lester
EC 2 Teacher
rlester@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgThis is my 4 th year teaching EC2 at the Cathedral School of St. Jude. I graduated from Osceola Fundamental High School, and I have been a parishioner of the Cathedral of St. Jude for the last 3 years. I volunteer to help the middle school EDGE program, and the Confirmation prep class for the school and parish 8 th graders. I have a twin brother, and 2 dogs. In my free time I like to line dance, go hiking, and go to the beach.
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Jenifer Lester A.A.
EC3 Teacher
jlester@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgThis is my 17th year teaching Early Childhood Education, and this will be my 5th year teaching at the Cathedral School of St. Jude. I have been a parishioner of the Cathedral of St. Jude for the last four years, I am blessed to be able to help with the middle school EDGE program, and the Confirmation prep class for the school and Parish 8th graders. I have 5 dogs at home, and I enjoy watching the Tampa Bay Rays. My passion and purpose in life is to teach little hearts and minds how much Jesus loves them and bring them closer to Christ.
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Heidi DiGeronimo
EC3 Teacher
hdigeronimo@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgHeidi DiGeronimo joined the St. Jude community in 2012, where she continues to bring her passion for nurturing young minds. Heidi holds several professional credentials, including Director Credentials, VPK Director Credentials, Florida Competencies for Directors and Administrators, Staff Credentials, and is recognized as an Early Childhood Professional.
Outside of work, Heidi enjoys the Florida lifestyle—spending time at the beach, traveling, and cheering on her favorite hockey team as a proud Tampa Bay Lightning fan.
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Maria Klotz
EC4 Teacher
mklotz@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI have been blessed as a preschool teacher in the Diocese of Saint Petersburg for 22 years. My religion and beliefs are a huge part of who I am. I started my graduate work in elementary education at Marywood University and continued my courses at USF and HCC after moving to Tampa. I hold a director credential, VPK credential, Staff credential and a micro-credential in Emergent Language and Literacy.I find the innocence, curiosity and energy of my littleones invigorating. They keep me going!
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Karen Lipham A.A.
EC4 Teacher
kking@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI am an alumni of The Cathedral School of St. Jude, where I attended from Kindergarten through 8th grade, before graduating from St. Pete Catholic High School. My journey in education began at Valencia Community College, where I started studying Elementary Education. I then earned my A.A. Degree in Early Childhood Education from St. Pete College. With 21 years of experience teaching VPK at The Cathedral School of St. Jude, I truly consider St. Jude’s my second home. I feel blessed to be part of such an amazing community of friends, families, and faith, dedicating my career to fostering a love of learning in young children.
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Debbie Walker B.A.
EC4 Teacher
dwalker@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgMrs. Debbie Walker has been working in the St. Jude Early Childhood program since 2012 in various positions. In addition to being on staff at St. Jude, Mrs. Walker was an active parent at the Cathedral School of St. Jude. She has 2 sons, James and Jacob, who are attending college and are graduates of St. Jude. The Walker family members are all active members of the Cathedral of St. Jude parish as well.
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Karen Duran
EC4 Assistant
kduran@cathedralschoolofstjude.org -
Lisa Hashem
EC4 Assistant
lhashem@cathedralschoolofstjude.org -
Jean Murphy
EC2 Assistant
jmurphy@cathedralschoolofstjude.org -
Elena Flores
EC 3 Assistant
eflores@cathedralschoolofstjude.org -
Lin Riffe
Early Childhood Aftercare
lriff@cathedralschoolofstjude.org -
Mariana Cortes-Verde
EC2 Assistant
mcortes-verde@cathedralschoolofstjude.org -
Madeline McCray
Early Childhood Aftercare
mmccray@cathedralschoolofstjude.org -
Lori Perkins
EC2 Assistant and Early Childhood Aftercare
lperkins@cathedralschoolofstjude.org -
Beverly Rimmer
EC3 Assistant
brimmer@cathedralschoolofstjude.org
Elementary Level
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Sara Walters
Kindergarten Teacher
swalters@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI earned my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (K-6) from St. Petersburg College, with endorsements in both ESOL and Reading. I previously taught kindergarten and have always found great joy in helping young learners grow academically, socially, and emotionally during such an important year of development. I’m excited to be back in the kindergarten classroom, where curiosity blooms and every day is a new adventure in learning!
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Lace Dunham B.A.
Kindergarten Teacher
ldunham@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgBeyond her professional achievements, Mrs. Dunham is deeply rooted in the St. Petersburg community. She grew up in the area and now lives here with her husband, a local charter captain, and their three-year-old daughter, who attends St. Jude Cathedral School. The family recently welcomed their second child, a baby boy. Mrs. Dunham's Catholic faith plays a central role in her life, guiding her both personally and professionally.
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Jackie Gardner B.S.
Kindergarten Teacher
jsmith@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgOriginally from Miami, Mrs. Gardner was raised in the Catholic faith and is grateful to teach in a community where she can integrate Catholic values into her classroom each day. She is passionate about play-based learning and believes deeply in developmentally appropriate enrichment that nurtures the whole child—mind, body, and spirit. She brings warmth, creativity, and a nurturing spirit to her classroom each day, fostering a love of learning in every child she teaches.
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Alexandra Clesen B.A.
Grade 1 Teacher
aclesen@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgMs. Clesen holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Loras College and a Master’s degree in Technology in Education from National Louis University. Her passion for teaching is matched by her dedication to creating engaging, student-centered learning environments where young learners can thrive both academically and personally. Ms. Clesen is excited to be teaching first grade again this year!
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Jillian Falvo
1st Grade Teacher
jfalvo@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI graduated Saint Leo University with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. I was a student assistant teacher for freshman students. I am a mental health advocate, love learning & helping others. I have a passion for young children & teaching them about God’s everlasting love. Every child is different and I will honor each & every student. It’s our duty as adults to give young children the tools & resources they need to succeed in life.
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Taylor Williams
Grade 1 Teacher
twilliams@cathedralschoolofstjude.org
I'm Taylor Williams and I graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University in 2022. I have my Bachelor's degree in Child and youth studies. I taught Pre-k in my senior year of college, and I've been teaching 1st grade for the past 3 years. I'll be doing my 4th year of 1st grade at St. Jude.
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Margarita Abdo B.S.
Grade 2 Teacher
mabdo@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgWith 28 years of experience in education, I am passionate about helping students grow both academically and personally. I have spent the past 8 years teaching at St. Jude Cathedral School, where I feel deeply connected to the community. Over the course of my career, I’ve taught both Special Education and general education, bringing over 20 years of diverse classroom experience to my students.
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Allyssa Radosevich
Grade 2 Teacher
aradosevich@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI graduated from St. Petersburg College with a B.S. in Elementary Education K-6th with an ESOL endorsement. I have been teaching for 20 years, 19 of them in the Diocese. Next school year I will be teaching second grade.
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Jacqueline Lamoureux B.S.
Grade 3-5 Social Studies
jlamoureux@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgHi, my name is Jacqueline Lamoureux. I have been teaching for 13 years. I have taught many different grade levels from kindergarten to fourth grade. I graduated from SPC with my bachelor’s degree. I have my certifications in prekindergarten/primary education, elementary education, ESE, ESOL, and reading. Next year I will be teaching Social Studies to grades 3 – 5.
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Elizabeth Boyce
3rd-5th Language Arts
eboyce@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgIn my roles as Mom (to my now adult children) and as Mrs. Boyce, it has been my tireless faith, love for children and childhood, and passion for teaching and learning that have shaped my purpose and identity. My life’s work speaks to my core belief in the value and potential of each child; I have had the highest privilege fostering students to actively think, read, write, and engage their faith.
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Hannah Shepherd M.Ed
3rd-5th Math Teacher
hclotiaux@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI am from New Orleans, Louisiana. I hold both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Louisiana State University. With six years of experience in education, this my third year at St. Jude School. I am excited to teach 3-5 Mathematics.
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Michelle McCune
3rd-5th Religion Teacher
mmccune@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI am a native Floridian and grew up in St. Petersburg. My teaching career began at the elementary school I had attended as a child. I then moved into special education From there, I went back to the Diocese of St. Petersburg in 1997, teaching Kindergarten at St. Raphael and in 2005, to St. John Vianney starting in First Grade and then moving to Fourth Grade. I enjoy playing with my grandkids, reading, creating recipes in the kitchen, and a variety of outdoor activities.
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GinaMarie Campagnola
3rd-5th Language Arts
gcampagnola@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI have been an elementary teacher for 28 school years, with 18 of those years in the Dioceses of St. Petersburg. I have a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from St. John’s University. I have a Master of Arts in Literacy from the University at Albany. I hold a Florida State Professional Educator’s Certificate in Elementary Education K-6th grade. I will be teaching 3rd -5th Grade English Language Arts.
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Amanda Thoennes
3-5th Grade Science
athoennes@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI graduated from The Catholic University of America in Washington D.C with my Bachelors of science in Nursing and I am currently working toward my Masters in Education. My favorite thing about science is the hands-on science experiments and the collaboration with others to help learn about the world around us. I love to read, drink tea, and spend time outside, especially at the beach! I’m an avid dark chocolate lover and I enjoy playing the piano! I’m most looking forward to learning more about teaching and forming connections with each of my students.
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Olivia Siligato
ESE Teacher
osiligato@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee before calling Florida my home in 2019. In 2023, I received my Bachelor’s of Arts in Elementary Education (K-6) at St. Leo University. At that time, I also received Endorsements in ESOL and Reading. Before moving to St. Petersburg this year, I lived and taught in Charlotte County, FL, for 2 years where I taught as a 3rd grade math/science teacher and as ESE Push-In teacher for Kindergarten and 3rd Grade. I am so excited to be working as a student support/resource teacher this year at the Cathedral School of St. Jude!
Middle School Level
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Christine Moore B.A.
Middle School Religion
cmoore@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI am a proud graduate of Florida State University, where I earned my bachelor's degree in English. This year marks my eighth year as an educator, and I am excited to continue my journey by teaching middle school religion. I am passionate about helping students grow both academically and spiritually, and I look forward to guiding them in deepening their faith and understanding.
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Jean Hynes B.S.
6-8th Grade English and Language Arts
jhynes@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgMrs. Hynes is in her 5th year at St. Jude’s. Prior to teaching, her work life included Landscape Architecture, sales, fundraising, teaching art, and editing. She loves Theology and the Mass, Science, Nature, Art, Live Theater, Reading, Writing, and being a mom and grandmom. She and Mr. Hynes have been married for over 30 years and have 3 adult children and 3 grandbabies.
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Teresa McBride M.A.
6-8th Grade English and Language Arts
tmcbride@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgWith 23 years in Catholic education—19 of them at St. Jude—I am blessed to work with students during such an exciting and important time in their lives-Middle School! Catholic education is a proud tradition in my family: my husband and I are both Blessed Sacrament grads; our daughter is a St. Jude and SPCHS grad, now attending our alma mater, FSU! I love sharing great books, helping students grow as writers, and having fun with plays and poetry. Most of all, I enjoy helping them explore the world through a uniquely Catholic lens, deepening their faith through prayer and service.
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Katie Bresler
6th-8th Math
kbressler@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgWith over a decade of experience in education, I’ve had the opportunity to serve in a variety of instructional and leadership roles across middle school and adult education settings. While I hold a degree in Mass Communications, my true passion lies in teaching and helping students thrive. I’m excited to continue my journey at the Cathedral School of St. Jude as a middle school mathematics teacher—especially since it’s a place where my own children will be growing and learning alongside me!
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Brad Cleppe B.S.
6-8th Grade Science
bcleppe@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgMr. Cleppe has been Teaching in Catholic Education for 4 years, 2 of which are at The Cathedral School of St. Jude’s. Being the middle school science teacher at St. Jude’s, Mr. Cleppe enjoys performing experiments with students, helping students excel in all aspects of their education, and being a role model for students to follow in their catholic identity. On his free time Mr. Cleppe enjoys being outside fishing, birding, and gardening.
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Maggie Kildea
6-8th Social Studies
mkildea@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgMy favorite Bible verse is Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”I’m a big museum fan and interned as an associate curator at a children’s museum while in college. In my free time, I love taking my mini poodle named Penny to the dog beach!
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Suzanne Bogacki M.Ed.
6-8th Grade Math
sbogacki@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI have been a dedicated educator for over 20 years, with a Bachelor of Science in Education from Daemen University and a Master of Science in Education with a focus in Special Education from Canisius University. I also hold my ESOL and Reading Endorsements. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of teaching in both public schools and within the Diocese of St. Petersburg. I am excited to bring my experience and passion to teaching middle school math and look forward to helping students build confidence and success in their math skills.
Special Subjects/Student Support
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Matthew Orr B.A.
P.E. Coach
morr@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgMr. Orr has been a life-long student of Saint Petersburg Catholic Schools. After graduation, he returned to Saint Petersburg Catholic assisting in the soccer program. He continued with the soccer program while working towards receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice. While attending college. Mr. Orr worked with the City of Saint Petersburg as a Youth Development Worker where it became clear that working with the youth was what he enjoyed.
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Michael Dugger
Athletic Director and PE Coach
mdugger@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI have been teaching for one year and am certified to teach Physical Education. Previously, I taught golf to kids for 5 years with the First Tee of Tampa Bay. I graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Interdisciplinary of Social Sciences.
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Amanda Babb B.A.
STREAM Teacher
ababb@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgIn 2022 Mrs. Babb began our STREAM program here at Cathedral School of St Jude. She recognizes the importance of fostering an ever- changing classroom, integrating technology and helping students adapt to changes by creating an inclusive classroom environment that encourages teamwork, collaboration, problem-solving and critical thinking skills. She truly enjoys creating lessons and curriculum that support the standards that are being taught in the classroom.
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Nivia Fisher M.S.
Spanish Teacher
nfisher@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgTeaching is more than a profession to me—it is a calling. I especially enjoy working with young learners, as it allows me to plant the seed of love and curiosity for the Spanish language and culture early in their lives. Being part of that formative process is not only fulfilling—it is a true blessing.
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Shelley Niswonger
Art Teacher
sniswonger@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgArt educator with over 25 years of experience in parochial, private and public education. Specialization in graphic design, media arts, animation, fine arts and STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, art and math). Originally from the midwest, became a Floridian in 2006 living in New Smyrna Beach, FL working for the Diocese of Orlando and recently relocated to Madeira Beach, FL. A mother of two boys, one in the Air Force and one in college, enjoys travel, decorating, cooking, tennis, yoga, surfing, all things creative and living a simple and spiritual beach life.
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Kelly DeMeza M.A.
Student Support Director
kdemeza@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgMrs. DeMeza graduated from the University of South Florida with a master's degree in Elementary Education. Most recently, she had the honor of serving as the Student Support Director. Next year, she will continue in her role as Student Support Director and remains proud to be part of the best school ever.
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Debra Nigara M.A.
Student Support
dnigara@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI am a retired Pinellas County School teacher, with over 40 years of experience teaching reading and special education. I have a master's degree in both subjects from Florida State University. My strengths include phonics instruction, comprehension strategies, and working with struggling readers. I am excited to continue my work with students, as a resource teacher, and help them achieve their reading potential.
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Deborah McCann B.A.
Student Support
dmccann@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgMrs. McCann holds a Florida Professional Education certificate for Elementary Ed grades K – 6 th . In 1997, she joined the teaching force of Pinellas County Schools. While taking some time off to raise her three daughters, Mrs. McCann was a substitute teacher with the Diocese of St. Petersburg. Most of the time was spent at the Cathedral School of St. Jude. After several years as a Title I teacher and teaching kindergarten, first and third grade, Mrs. McCann made a move to come back to teach second grade full time at the Cathedral School of St. Jude. She later became the third-grade teacher. The past two years Mrs. McCann has been a resource teacher in the Student Support Department, where she will continue to teach for the 2025- 2026 school year.
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Elise Lamoureux M.Ed
Student Support
elamoureux@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgMy name is Elise Lamoureux, and I am a passionate elementary school teacher with a strong commitment to creating a positive and engaging learning environment. This year marks my ninth year teaching, and I am excited to continue my journey with my students. I am dedicated to making learning a fun, meaningful, and inspiring experience for each and every child.
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Krysta Coyle
Dedicated Substitute Teacher
kcoyle@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgI hold an undergraduate degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. I have taught Pre-school through 4th grade including English as a second language in Virginia, New Mexico, and Florida. I am passionate about the Catholic faith, children, and teaching.
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Denee Deeb
Music Teacher
ddeeb@cathedralschoolofstjude.orgDenee Deeb holds a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts from Florida State University and brings over a decade of experience in the performing arts. As an educator, her focus is to cultivate creative confidence, empowering students to explore, grow and express themselves through music.
Staff
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Debbie Gerdes
Office Manager/Admissions
dgerdes@cathedralschoolofstjude.org -
Keith Milnes
Maintenance
maintenance@cathedralschoolofstjude.org -
Dawn Lawson
Administrative Assistant
dlawson@cathedralschoolofstjude.org -
Officer Keary Little
Security Guard
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Sue Smith
Administrative Assistant
ssmith@cathedralschoolofstjude.org