Baton Rouge // Alliance for Catholic Education

Where We Serve: Baton Rouge

Quick Facts

Established in 1994
Number of Teachers: 4
Number of Schools Served: 3
Serves Diocese of Baton Rouge
Nearby Communities: Plaquemine, New Orleans

Life in the City

Perhaps the best part about living in Baton Rouge is the uniqueness of the local culture – from the food to Mardi Gras parades to crawfish boils to Cajun accents. Just outside the city, you end up in bayou country; the swamp tours are not to be missed!

For more information about ACE, including how to apply, click HERE.

Sitting on the banks of the Mississippi River and at the junction of Interstates 10 and 12, Baton Rouge is the capital city of Louisiana. The population of the city proper is about 227,000, a number that reflects a recent post-Katrina surge in population. It boasts both variety and quality in food and music, and generally contains an eclectic mix of the cultures and ways of life found throughout the State of Louisiana. In particular, the city has a passionate love affair with its food; in fact, local teachers have been known to explain, "Our state monuments are found on every plate."

Teachers Serving This Community

Samantha Reich | ACE 19

Teaches High School Science at Redemptorist High School

What has been an ACE summer class that you've enjoyed so far?
I really enjoy Teaching High School. Doc challenges us to confront our assumptions and to realize exactly what we need to do in order to become an accomplished high school teacher. My classmates challenge me to think from new perspectives, and Doc is constantly modeling techniques for classroom management and lesson planning.

Background
B.S. Chemistry and B.A. History with a minor in ESS, University of Notre Dame

Originally from Harwood Heights, IL
Samuel Schneider | ACE 19

Teaches Middle School Math at Holy Family School

What's been the best moment of your ACE experience so far?
The best moment in ACE so far has been the arrival of the 18s. The solidarity of our community and the full mission of ACE became fully apparent when at last we were all gathered in prayer.

Background
B.A. Economics with a minor in Political Science, University of Nebraska at Kearney

Originally from Grand Island, NE
Stacey Brandt | ACE 18

Teaches Middle School English at Sacred Heart of Jesus School

How has ACE shaped your spiritual life?
When you join ACE, you offer your entire life for two years to your students. It is a very busy time full of constant hard work. Being able to see that work as a prayer--a service not just to my students, but to God in them--gave me the motivation to keep trying even in the most frustrating times. This taught me to see God in all of the activities of my day, not just in the few moments of silent personal prayer I may be able to catch amid the constant whirlwind of activity.

Background
B.A. English and Theology, University of Notre Dame

Originally from South Bend, IN
Dominic Fanelli | ACE 18

Teaches Middle School Math at Sacred Heart of Jesus School

What is your favorite Community story?
Living in the Gulf has allowed for great travel opportunities. I have a great appreciation for the greater ACE community, and visiting these good friends in different Gulf cities has been one of my favorite parts of the program.

Background
B.A. Economics and German, University of Notre Dame

Originally from Indianapolis, IN