While summer break brings some downtime, our Falcon teachers never stop seeking opportunities to grow in their teaching craft and their faith journeys. Three West Catholic teachers—Mr. Nawrocki, Mr. Schaub, and Miss Brooks—recently returned from a unique week-long professional development seminar hosted by Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans. 

Designed with tracts for science and theology teachers, the seminar aimed to “enhance the dialogue between science and religion in Catholic education.” Participants enjoyed engaging scientists, philosophers and theologians through lectures and workshops to deepen their understanding of the integration of faith and science. “We got a huge amount of direct instruction from experts from Notre Dame on how our Catholic faith and science are not only not adversarial, but are partners in our journey here on Earth,” Nawrocki said. “We were given examples of our faith in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Astronomy and how all of these areas complement the Catholic faith.”

Another highlight for our representing teachers was the chance to connect with other educators from around the country. “It was awesome seeing how teachers from California to Massachusetts and from Minnesota to Louisiana are the same as us at West Catholic, but also how we differ,” said Nawrocki.

While it was a rigorous week of fruitful learning, our WC teachers took time to enjoy New Orleans, appreciating its culture and having some fun, too. “We were able to go to a jazz show, hear Zydeco music for the first time, went bowling, and were on a trivia team together; it was a lot of fun!”