My name is Amber Harris- First Grade Classroom Assistant/ Fifth Grade Lunch and Recess Monitor. I am St. Paul alumni, class of 1999! When I had my son, there was no question about where I’d send him for school. I would not be who I am today, without the foundation of St. Paul School; or teachers like Mrs. Haas, Mrs. Barnett, Mrs. Cahalan, and Mrs. Pratt- who are still teaching at the school, today! I credit all my successes to this school, and the teachers in it!
I currently have a child (Jameson) enrolled at St. John Paul II. He absolutely loves it, and he’s excelling! My husband (Thomas “Tank”) is active in the parish and with the school, as well. He provides DJ services for special dances and activities. He coaches basketball, flag football, soccer, and he is active on the athletics committee. It’s a family affair! And, JPII feels like family!
For the past twelve years, I‘ve worked as a nurse, in various settings. Over those twelve years, I obtained three degrees in nursing. It’s no secret, the last few years changed everything- I found nursing was no longer a rewarding career path for me. During ‘Back to School Night,’ I sat in the seat of what would be the desk, of my first grader! I was immediately overcome with emotion…so many positive memories! That evening I told my husband, I had finally found my “happy place,” and I knew, I belonged at JPII; I just didn’t know how. I reached out to Mrs. Haas, to tell her about my desire to come work at JPII. My mom worked as the librarian, when I was in school; and I loved having her there! I wanted that same experience, for my son. There was nothing available, at the time. I prayed and prayed, asking God to put me on the path He wanted for me… one that would also make me happy. A position came available and I took it! I couldn’t be happier. I have grown to genuinely care for all these children, and I look forward to seeing them everyday. I am thankful, grateful, and blessed to be part of the JPII staff!