Primary Focus:
Principal
Number of Years at SPS:
14
Education & Certifications:
B.A., English / Secondary Education, Immaculata University
M. Ed., Educational Leadership, College of New Jersey
Master’s Degree, Curriculum and Instruction (Emphasis on Web 2.0 Tools), University of Wisconsin
Certification in Exceptional Needs - Mild Interventions, University of Notre Dame
Patricia O’Donnell
Background:
My name is Patricia O’Donnell and the “Luck of the Irish” has allowed me to be the principal of this wonderful school for the past nine years. I am the oldest of five daughters and I have eight nieces and two nephews. I grew up in Flemington, New Jersey – some of my family still lives there – and, I will always be a “Jersey Girl” at heart!
I remember way back to when I was in 7th grade and I knew I wanted to be a teacher. I followed that dream and have been blessed with many educational opportunities and experiences. I taught 6th–8th grades for 10 years and loved it – they are my favorite age group. I have been a principal for 23 years in New Jersey, Virginia Beach, VA and here at St. Pat’s.
Personal:
In my free time I love to go to the beach, read, color with pointy crayons only, ride my bike, watch Notre Dame sports, and garden. I have run in marathons, half-marathons, 10Ks and 5Ks as well as completed a few triathlons. I enjoy the training and then have fun and relax during the event. I am slow but steady and do love crossing the finish line! Right now, I am just running for fun – no more races for me! I keep an active “Bucket List” and have accomplished many items on it. Some of these have been skydiving, hot air balloon ride, hang gliding, snorkeling, driving a race car at the Pocono Raceway, watching Peyton Manning play golf at Pebble Beach, CA, going to the Women’s Final Four, and white water rafting. The list never ends, I just keep adding to it once I have accomplished something on it.
One Thing I Want Parents to Know:
I am a big believer in inclusion. I just completed studying at the University of Notre Dame. The course of study was called the Program for Inclusive Education in Catholic Schools. We are called by the Church to welcome all students, typical and those with intellectual disabilities, into our Catholic Schools. I believe our school community will be fully enriched when we welcome these amazing students into the St. Patrick School family.
I am a huge dog lover, follow everything Notre Dame, and I look forward to getting to know you and welcoming you to St. Patrick School! Go Warriors! Go Irish!