New Orleans // Alliance for Catholic Education

Where We Serve: New Orleans

Quick Facts

Established in 2007
Number of Teachers: 7
Number of Schools Served: 6
Serves Archdiocese of New Orleans
Nearby Communities: Baton Rouge, Plaquemine

Life in the City

We love living in New Orleans because the people here demonstrate a resilient spirit and rich faith in one another and the goodness and grace of God. With terrific cuisine from both land and sea, the culinary delights cannot be beat! After a long week of school, our community frequently visits a community favorite, Witt's End, for a much needed break from our hectic lifestyle.

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

It’s a place that was completely devestated by Hurricane Katrina and is still in the process of healing; however, as a group we can say that it’s a place filled with culture, great music, and great food. New Orleans is a wonderful place to live and teach. As the birthplace of jazz, the city has an incredible spirit that is manifested in numerous festivals, parades, and celebrations throughout the year. From Mardi Gras to Jazz Fest, the people of New Orleans live each day to the fullest.

Teachers Serving This Community

Stephanie House | ACE 19

Teaches 3rd Grade at Our Lady of Prompt Succor

What's been the best moment of your ACE experience so far?
The best moment of ACE so far has been hearing stories from the 18s! I have also enjoyed Practicum because it helped me see how a classroom functions.

Background
B.A. Art History and Program of Liberal Studies, University of Notre Dame

Originally from Laguna Niguel, CA
Dominic Golab | ACE 18

Teaches High School Physics at Archbishop Shaw High School

What is your favorite teaching moment?
One day, one of my freshman came to me and said, "Mr. Golab, you are so tough on us sometimes, but it is okay because it makes us better." That is something that will always stay with me. There were days when I was unsure of my teaching abilities, but seeing that my expectations meant something to them was nice to hear.

Background
B.S. Physics, University of Notre Dame

Originally from Birmingham, MI
Benjamin Russo | ACE 19

Teaches High School Science at Archbishop Shaw High School

What has been an ACE summer class that you've enjoyed so far?
I really enjoyed Teaching in Catholic Schools, because we investigate how to respond to various real questions and situations that are likely to come up in a Catholic school setting based on the teachings of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

Background
B.S. Chemistry, University of Dallas

Originally from Bryan, TX
Elizabeth Chaten | ACE 19

Teaches Middle School Language Arts at St. Joan of Arc

Why did you say 'yes' to serving with ACE?
Although the graduate degree from Notre Dame, the adventurous move to New Orleans, and the inspired mission of ACE all appealed to me, I said yes to ACE because of the incredible quality of people involved. In life, we often say yes not to organizations, but to people, and Carole Sandner Hall is filled with perhaps the most kind, generous, and intelligent people working in education today.

Background
B.A. Program of Liberal Studies with a minor ESS, University of Notre Dame

Originally from Carmel, IN
Katie Schenkel | ACE 18

Teaches Middle School Science at Our Lady of Prompt Succor

What is your favorite ACE tradition, and why?
December Retreat is my favorite ACE tradition because it brings all of the great things about ACE together. In one short weekend, we are supported and lifted up professionally, spiritually, and socially.

Background
B.S. Science - Business with a minor in Catholic Social Tradition, University of Notre Dame

Originally from Fort Wayne, IN
Allie Greene | ACE 18

Teaches High School Religion at Academy of Our Lady

How has ACE shaped your spiritual life?
ACE gives me the daily opportunity to think about how my faith impacts others as a Religion teacher in an all-girls' school. I am encouraged by the faith of other teachers in ACE who show me that God works through us as teachers to reach our students. My community holds me accountable to this faith that I've formed, and they continue to nourish my faith with discussions, prayer, and shared experiences.

Background
B.A. Religious Studies, St. Mary's College

Originally from Canton, MI
Patrick Sitzer | ACE 18

Teaches 3rd Grade at Resurrection of Our Lord

What is your favorite teaching moment?
I opened a classroom "store" to finish my unit on money in math class and gave my students a fixed amount of cash to purchase items. Listening to them grumble about the rising costs of Reese's peanut butter cups, dollar store puzzles, and how they didn't have time to wait in a long checkout line after a long day of math class was hilarious coming from 3rd graders.

Background
B.A. Philosophy, St. John's University

Originally from Rochester, MN