In Caroline's Footsteps

The school’s motto, “I Can Serve,” captures the spirit of both Immaculate Conception School and of its new principal, Sister Margaret Mary Schmidt. While the school’s 69 kindergarten - 8th grade students combine academics and community service, Sister Margaret combines leadership and teaching.

“Immaculate Conception School was built in 1924 as a doctor’s home and office so the classroom set-up is somewhat unusual. I serve as principal and teach religion, reading, spelling and science to 5th-8th grade students. There are 5 full-time faculty members, a music teacher, a computer teacher and a PE teacher. We also have a volunteer special education teacher and a volunteer librarian. Many of our parents tutor and we participate in Reading with Rover, a reading program where a dog comes to school to listen to students read so they can build confidence in their reading abilities. This program is a first for me!

“I really believe that people deserve to have a sister in school if they want one and if it is at all possible. The people at Immaculate Conception School wanted a sister at the school. They got two when I accepted the position and asked Sister Mildred to join me. The school has already tapped her for many volunteer opportunities.

“Promoting a sense of spirituality in my students is important to me. I like to offer them prayer experiences that help them develop a relationship with God. That’s how we transform and how we sustain relationships down the road.”

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Photo: Deb Keithley, Chronicle-Herald