CAPE MAY – “This educator represents the quality of teaching that is the foundation of our Catholic School promise,” said Joan Dollinger, principal of Our Lady Star of the Sea Regional School.
“In announcing Donna DiPasquale as one of five finalists who will represent New Jersey non-public educators, it is important to celebrate, recognize and reward excellence when it occurs,” she said.
DiPasquale was selected by the Diocese of Camden to represent Catholic schools in southern New Jersey. Her nomination was submitted to the New Jersey Council for American Private Education (NJ CAPE).
In July, DiPasquale received notice that she was chosen as one of the top five finalists out of an initial field of over 800 applicants. Almost one out of every six students in New Jersey is educated in a nonpublic school, a significantly higher percentage than the nation as a whole.
DiPasquale rode to her final interview for the award with Dollinger and it was a trip down memory lane for the principal. Dollinger was the first recipient of the Nonpublic School Teacher of the Year Award 13 years ago.
DiPasquale praises her co-workers and the environment in which she works. “If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be able to do what I do,” she said.
DiPasquale explained her teaching philosophy is based on the teachings of educational psychologist Barry Beyer, “cover less and uncover more.” She prefers to focus on the level of understanding, rather than just “finishing the chapter.” She promotes discovery of the joy of reading so that her students actually enjoy reading.
A former elementary school principal, she has been a Catholic school educator for 30 years.