Laurie Cantrell

Assistant Principal/5th Grade Teacher/Director of SJS Performing Arts

Laurie Cantrell

Wed, Aug 24, 2:40 PM (21 hours ago)

to me

I am so honored to be working here at St. Joseph Catholic School, serving our amazing community and helping develop all of our students into faith filled, responsible children of God. This is my fourth year at SJS, and my 13th year working in the Diocese of Orange. I received my Bachelors of Fine Arts and Masters of Music from Notre Dame De Namur University. I also completed my Multi-Subject Credential and my Master’s in Education at National University. Just this summer, I completed my Administrative Certificate in Catholic School Management from VillaNova University.
My first two years of teaching was as a music teacher for the Redwood City School District in the Bay Area and then I moved back to my hometown of Orange County to teach Kindergarten at St. Callistus Catholic School. After that I made the big jump to high school and taught 9-12th grade choir, theatre, speech, dance and was the Performing Arts Department Chair and Admissions Shadowing Coordinator at Rosary Academy. At SJS I taught 1st Grade for one year and then became the 5th Grade teacher. 5th grade is one of my favorite grades and I love helping my students grow into responsible students who are ready to take on the challenge and excitement of middle school.
I am a strong believer in Catholic Education, having attended Catholic school from Kindergarten through College, and now having all three of my children attend St. Joseph Catholic school. St. Joseph’s is an amazing place with a Christ-centered family community, a strong focus on academic excellence, and the development of the whole child. My family and I are so proud to be a part of this incredible community. I am honored to serve as Assistant Principal, 5th Grade Teacher and the Performing Arts Director for our school. I know this will be a beautiful year as we continue to grow in faith and action as "Doers of the Word" (James 1:22).

Teaching Philosophy
My philosophy of education is that all students are unique individuals who need a nurturing and positive environment in the classroom that encourages them to continue to develop their God-given talents. Students need to be challenged with new experiences that stimulate their minds and help them to grow emotionally, mentally, and socially with God as the center of their life. My role as a teacher is to give them the tools that they need so that they can reach their full potential. My philosophy of education will continue to develop and grow because, as a teacher, I am never done learning.