Unlike many educators, Pam McSweeney’s career didn’t start in the classroom, but in the corporate world. Her journey at Saint John the Baptist Catholic School in Savage signals hope and possibility for those seeking a change of direction.
“I often joke that I’m a 38-year-old teacher in a 58-year-old’s body,” McSweeney jests, reflecting on her unexpected path to teaching. After climbing the corporate ladder at Sears, she embraced motherhood and community life at Saint John the Baptist.
“I was that mom,” she reminisces with a gentle laugh. “Library, classroom parties, playground, lunchroom — I did it all. But in 2004, our youngest son was stillborn. With our daughter starting first grade and too much free time at home, I knew it wouldn’t be good for me. I needed to do something, so I went back to school for my teaching license and started teaching in 2006. My son is the reason I’m a Catholic school teacher today.”
Faith at the core
McSweeney’s days at Saint John the Baptist are punctuated by moments of pure joy, from the morning greetings that energize her spirit to the victories in math when students’ faces light up with understanding.
“It’s really all about my kiddos,” she says, her enthusiasm infectious. “I love seeing the look on their faces when they ‘get’ something, when a difficult concept clicks for them.”
McSweeney’s influence extends beyond academics, with faith at the core of her teaching philosophy. She strives to embody the presence of Jesus in her classroom, creating an environment where compassion and love are as crucial as any textbook lesson.
“I have a special passion for kids who struggle, whether it’s with reading and math, behaviorally, or with medical issues,” she says. “I’m dedicated to helping them realize their potential and understand that they can achieve amazing things. Once, during a Back-to-School Night, a boy told me he’d be my ‘naughty kid.’ I simply responded, ‘Oh, you must be mistaken; I don’t have any naughty kids.’ We spent the year unraveling his negative self-image.”
When reflecting on the life of a teacher, she insists that creating proper boundaries is crucial to maintaining balance and avoiding burnout.
“I don’t have my school email on my phone,” she admits. “When I leave work, I leave work. I see my work as a calling, as a vocation. I’m committed to doing what’s needed, even if it means staying late occasionally. But I also cherish my vocation as a wife and mother. Both vocations are fulfilling, and they complement each other wonderfully when balanced.”
Teachers essential to mission
On the topic of children growing up in the current culture, McSweeney underscores the increasing importance of Catholic education.
“Catholic schools are more crucial than ever,” she says. “Our children need the structure, morals and doctrine of Catholic schools, whether they are Catholic or not. But more than anything, they need to believe that Jesus Christ loves them and knows them by name. Catholic schools do that better and in a way that no one else can.”
For Catholic schools to excel and convey Christ’s love, McSweeney recognizes that excellent teachers are essential.
“We need teachers who are faithful, who love the Lord and are eager to share His love with their students. We need compassionate, flexible and humble educators. I believe many out there feel called to teach but are hesitant about changing careers or majors. To them, I say, ‘Just try it.’ Start by volunteering or spend time in a Catholic school. If you’re in college, consider shadowing a teacher for a day. And if you’re contemplating a career change, same thing: Reach out to a principal. Catholic school teachers are very welcoming and love sharing the life-changing work they do. You’ll be warmly welcomed and won’t regret it.”