Writing Logically

Sister Margaret Mary Gorman taught in elementary and secondary schools for 35 years with her last position at Good Counsel Academy in Mankato, Minnesota. When the Academy closed in 1980 and with health concerns, she began tutoring at Good Counsel Learning Center. Her area of focus was English, both reading and writing. Her first students were a seventh grader with Turret Syndrome and a high school student from Lebanon who knew very little English. In 1987 when she participated in the congregation’s Rome Renewal Program, one of the presenters’ who was a lay woman made this comment: “when you go back to your ministry, do whatever you can to help children and women learn English.” These words affirmed Sister Margaret Mary’s choice of ministry at the Center.

Testing demands for ELL (English Language Learners) include writing a clear, logical, well-developed composition. Over the years, Sister has developed a logical writing framework to assist students when writing their compositions. She recalled a Somali high school senior who was not successful in passing the written portion of her English tests needed for graduation. Sister Margaret Mary explained her logical framework for writing, and on the next attempt the student was successful.

Sister Joann McMahon, the Learning Center’s director, commented that Sister Margaret Mary was always willing to work with any students who needed assistance with writing whether high school students or Somali women. At an early June retirement party, the Center honored Sister Margaret Mary’s 33 years of ministry.

Good Counsel Learning Center works with students on a one-to-one basis, helping them improve their skills, enabling them to be successful in life. The Center is in need of tutors for its extensive waiting list. CONTACT Sister Joann McMahon at 507-389-4229 or by email.

Top Left:  Sister Margaret Mary Gorman tutors Irmã Inês Camiran from Brazil and a member of the General Council in English writing skills.
Bottom Right:  Sister Kate DuVal congratulates Sister Margaret Mary at her retirement party.

Photo credits: Karla Mayer and Sister Mary Kay Ash, SSND