IDEA Award Recipients at Diocesan PD Day
This past Monday, Padua hosted the Diocesan Professional Development Day: Educating the Whole Child. Faculty from diocesan high schools gathered for a day of breakout sessions, with several led by Padua staff, alumnae, and friends. With 34 sessions offered, the event showcased an impressive range of topics.
A special thank you to the Professional Development Day Planning Committee, including these members from Padua: Kimberly Kiefer – Co-Chair, Elizabeth Cronin & Keith Rolph.
To close the day, we gathered with Dr. Lou DeAngelo, Superintendent of Schools, and Dr. Joni Kurylo, Advancement Sub-Committee Chair for the Board of Catholic Schools, for the presentation of the 2024-2025 IDEA Awards (Innovate, Develop, Educate Award). This award honors educators who exemplify collaboration, innovation, motivation, and Gospel values.
We are thrilled to announce that Mrs. Lisa Kowalski & Mr. Dan Mahler were recognized as finalists! This honor celebrates excellence in Catholic education, and we couldn't be prouder of their achievements.
Here are a few highlights from their nominations:
- Mrs. Lisa Kowalski, Chair and Co-Chair of the Engineering and Mathematics Departments, was nominated by Mrs. Barbara Markham for her dedication to making complex subjects accessible, her commitment to student success, and her efforts to integrate faith with STEM education. As a leader in Padua Academy’s Mathematics and Engineering programs, she has expanded opportunities through international trips, medical speaker events, and summer work programs, while also advocating for her colleagues and securing resources to enhance student learning. As Mrs. Markham said, “ ‘Miss K’ conveys the feeling that math isn’t just vital; it is accessible to all.”
- Mr. Dan Mahler, Chair of the Social Studies Department, was nominated by Mr. Keith Rolph for his dedication to student success, his innovative and inclusive approach to teaching history, and his commitment to fostering a respectful and faith-driven learning environment. Through his leadership in National History Day, DEI initiatives, and student programming, he empowers students to think critically, embrace diverse perspectives, and make morally sound decisions. As Mr. Rolph stated, “by providing students with a diverse range of sources and perspectives, he empowers students to think critically, discern authoritative information and come to independent conclusions about the world around them.”
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