Faculty Spotlight: Sharon Stanley

Background and Journey

What inspired you to become a teacher, and how did your time as a CISVA student shape that decision?

From a very young age, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. As an only child for much of my childhood, I often played “school” with my cousins and naturally found myself taking on the role of the teacher. Even through play, I loved helping them learn new things and felt so proud when they remembered something I had taught them. When my younger brother was born 18 years after me, that passion only grew. I loved helping him understand new concepts and felt such joy when I could see the moment something finally “clicked” for him.

The teachers who taught me at St. Jude School were a huge inspiration to me. Their genuine care, compassion, and faith deeply influenced how they taught and connected with their students. I loved the sense of community that came from a smaller school environment, where everyone looked out for one another. The kindness and mentorship of the older students toward the younger ones left a lasting impression and showed me the kind of teacher and person I aspired to be.

What do you remember most about your years as a student in CISVA?

I still remember my very first day of Grade 1 so clearly I was nervous because I was the “new kid.” But from the moment I walked through the doors, everyone was so warm and welcoming that my nerves quickly disappeared. Even though I was quite shy, I immediately felt a sense of comfort and belonging, something that has stayed with me ever since. Some of my fondest memories are of attending Mass together as a school community, both in elementary and high school. I loved hearing the beautiful hymns and reflecting on the messages shared in the homily and the Word of God. Those moments always left me feeling inspired and grounded in faith a feeling I still carry with me today.

How does it feel to now teach in the same school community where you once studied?

Walking back into St. Jude School as an adult felt almost surreal it was as if nothing had changed. I was immediately welcomed with the same warmth and joy I remembered from my student days. At first, it was strange to work alongside some of the teachers who once taught me, but that quickly became a deep sense of gratitude and honour. Hearing the laughter and chatter of students brings back wonderful memories and reminds me how special this community is. I’m proud to now help create that same joy and sense of belonging for my students.

Faith and Formation

How has Catholic education influenced your faith and approach to teaching?

Having been raised in the Catholic faith and attending church throughout my life, Catholic education has always been a central part of who I am. From my very first day in Grade 1, faith was woven into everything we did whether it was starting the day with prayer, participating in school Masses, or learning how to live out the values of kindness, compassion, and service to others.

Those experiences deeply shaped not only my personal faith but also my approach to teaching. As a teacher at St. Jude School now, I strive to create a classroom where faith is lived out through daily actions where students feel cared for, valued, and supported in both their learning and their spiritual growth. I try to model the same love, patience, and understanding that my teachers once showed me, and to help my students see how faith can guide them in every part of their lives.

What role does faith play in your classroom each day?

Faith is at the heart of everything we do. We begin and end each day with prayer and give thanks before every meal. Beyond these moments, I encourage students to see God in all that they do and learn, and to turn to Him in times of challenge or gratitude. Faith guides our actions, shapes our choices, and inspires us to treat one another with kindness, compassion, and respect.

How do you help students live the Gospel values in their daily actions?

 In Kindergarten, faith comes alive in everyday interactions. I encourage students to see God in one another, to treat classmates as they would want to be treated, and to ask, “What would Jesus do?” We celebrate acts of kindness, sharing, and forgiveness as expressions of Gospel values. Through these small, daily lessons, students learn that faith is lived through our words, actions, and care for others.

Teaching and Community

What has been the most rewarding part of teaching within the CISVA system?

The most rewarding part is living out my faith each day while guiding my students in theirs. Sharing God’s love and helping students grow academically, socially, and spiritually is incredibly fulfilling. Seeing them develop kindness, confidence, and a sense of faith reminds me why teaching in a Catholic school community is such a privilege.

How do you see students growing in both academics and character here?

As a Kindergarten teacher, I have the joy of seeing students at the very beginning of their learning journey. It’s wonderful to watch them grow not only academically, but also in confidence, kindness, and faith. Our dedicated staff gets to know each child, supporting them to thrive as well-rounded individuals. The students’ efforts to do their best and treat one another with respect reflect the strong community and values that make St. Jude so special.

What makes Saint Jude a special place for both students and staff?

St. Jude is a truly special place because of its close-knit, family-like community. As a smaller school, everyone has the opportunity to really get to know one another, creating a genuine sense of belonging. Each person student and staff alike plays an important role in making our school a welcoming, supportive, and faith-filled environment where everyone feels valued.

Perspective and Legacy

How do you think CISVA schools have evolved since you were a student?

Since my time as a student, I’ve seen CISVA schools grow and adapt with the times, incorporating modern teaching methods and new approaches to learning. What has impressed me most is that, despite these changes, the focus on faith has never wavered. God remains at the center of our schools, guiding both students and teachers. Experiencing this as both a former student and now as a teacher, I feel grateful to be part of a community that values innovation in education while nurturing the spiritual growth of every child.

What advice would you give current students who might one day want to return as teachers?

Pray and trust that God will guide you to where you are meant to be. If you have the opportunity to return to St. Jude, know that you will be welcomed, supported, and encouraged to grow as both a teacher and a person. Work hard, follow your passion, and embrace the journey teaching here is not only fulfilling but also a chance to make a lasting difference in the lives of your students while living out your faith every day.

How do you hope your students will remember their time with you?

I hope my students remember not only the fun and laughter we shared, but also the lessons they learned academically, socially, and spiritually. I want them to feel a true sense of belonging in our classroom and to carry with them the values of kindness, compassion, and faith. My hope is that their time with me inspires them to grow, not just as learners, but as caring and confident individuals.