Early Learning Center Teacher
Ms. Laura “LA” Ramirez
lramirez@SDJacademy.org
Ms. Ramirez attended Alverno College for Education and Business and is currently enrolled in the Early Childhood Special Education graduate program at Lewis University. Ms. Ramirez has taught the Early Childhood program, Technology and Art at St. Joseph School prior to the schools combining in 2023. She now teaches PS3/PK4 at SDJCA and has a passion for teaching early learners. Ms. Ramirez is a proud parent of three alumni: Alysa ~ SJS 2013, Armand ~SJS 2016 and Arianna~ SJS 2019.
Hobbies: Spending time with my three children, reading, spontaneous adventures and time at the beach
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Favorite Bible quote: “To pray is to let go and let God take over.” Phillipians 4:6-7
“What started out as a “place” my children would go to school, quickly became a second home and place of worship. I believe in the foundation and community that my family has been a part of and am blessed to be here. I feel so much joy walking through the doors every day to foster the growth of children. I am so proud and believe in the mission of SDJCA. Memories have been made and I am looking forward to making many more!”
“To pray is to let go and let God take over.”
Kindergarten Teacher
Miss Alexia Bibakis
Miss “B” Bibakis graduated from The University of St. Francis in Joliet with an Elementary Education license. As a dedicated student-athlete, she ran Cross Country and Track all four years at USF. She was a student teacher at Sator Sanchez Elementary school. Miss Bibakis grew up in Lowell, Indiana.
Hobbies: Running, spending time with loved ones and watching ‘Friends.’
Favorite Bible quote: “Do everything in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:14
“Teaching kindergarten and wanting a close family community led me to SDJCA. I am very excited to help students learn, grow, and make learning fun!“
1st GradeTeacher
Mrs. Michelle Miller
Lead Teacher (South Campus)
mmiller@SDJacademy.org
Mrs. Miller holds a Bachelor in Elementary Education from Eastern Illinois University, Charleston. This is her 12th year teaching 1st grade; 4th year in Lockport. She worked several years as a preschool teacher/director and childcare provider during the time period she was at home with her own children.
Favorite Bible quote: “The human heart plans the way, but the Lord directs the steps.” Proverbs 16:9
“Three years ago, I returned to my career after being home with my own children for quite some time. I truly believe that God’s path clearly led me to Lockport for a reason. Being a part of this Catholic school community has inspired and completed me. I have found a home here and am fully committed to assisting in the creation of what I believe will be one of the strongest Catholic educational facilities! Every challenge we have been faced with has made us stronger and even more committed. The bottom line for me is that I love children and teaching them! I believe every child is special and unique, each having their own strengths, weaknesses talents and personalities. I fell I am failing if I do not address and meet the needs of every child in my class to the best of my ability. I strive to ensure that every day my students enter the classroom feeling excited, happy, safe, loved and eager to grow with God always by their side. My whole life Mother Teresa has been one of my essential role models. Her words reach me deeply and I have strived to emulate her the bet i can. ‘Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without coming away better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness.’ I believe I am called to teach, love, guide and be a source of joy and comfort in children’s lives.”
2nd Grade Teacher
Ms. Christine King
cking@SDJacademy.org
Ms. Christine King holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago. She minored in Teaching English as a Second Language and holds endorsements in TESL, Language Arts, Social Sciences, and Middle School. Recently, she completed a graduate program in Fine Arts and is currently working towards acquiring Fine Arts as an additional endorsement through the content exam. In addition to her expertise in elementary studies and language arts, Ms. King has received training in photography, ceramics, drawing, painting, printmaking, and ceramic sculpture. Art and creative expression are core aspects of her pedagogical approach to teaching. Ms. King is also a proud mother to Nalukai.
Hobbies: Art, running, reading, music, nutrition, playing with my labradoodle, caring for my plants, and spending time with my family
Favorite Bible quote: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Phillipians 4:13
“In the past year, I have felt called by God to return to the faith. This led to a series of events that ultimately brought me to Saints Dennis and Joseph Catholic Academy. I believe it is my purpose to serve God by serving His community with the knowledge and skills He has given me. I am honored to be a part of the SDJCA community and to teach a faith based education. I look forward to a wonderful year full of knowledge, learning, and spiritual growth!”
3rd Grade Teacher
Ms. Emma Sierzega
esierzega@SDJacademy.org
Ms. Sierzega is a proud Joliet Diocese Alumni, having graduated from Holy Family, Shorewood and Providence Catholic. She currently holds a Bachelor in Elementary Education from Northern Illinois University. She is so excited to begin her first year with SDJCA!
Hobbies: Crochet, painting, gardening, reading, and spending time with family and friends
Favorite Bible quote: “Do everything with love.” 1 Corinthians 16:14
“I am very excited to be continuing my teaching journey in a school that is fostering love, education, and community, all at once. I am honored and humbled that I am getting to spend my time teaching and making an impact on each student that comes into my classroom.”
4th Grade Teacher
Mr. Brandon Skwarczek
bskwarczek@SDJacademy.org
Mr. Skwarczek is a first-year teacher, having recently graduated from Olivet Nazarene University in Elementary Education. His student teaching placement was at St. Anne Grade School where he taught math and science to 4th-grade. He has prior teaching experience as a 3rd-grade catechist at St. Mary’s Parish in Mokena, a summer missionary for Totus Tuus, and teaching preschool at Lasting Impressions in Kankakee. He is a recent convert to Catholicism and has a passion for theology, math, and writing.
Hobbies: Theology and apologetics, reading, hiking, and gaming
Favorite Bible quote: “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me, receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest.” Luke 9:48
“Ever since I began my educational journey, I knew with certainty I needed to teach at a Catholic School. Having been confirmed in 2022, the faith has become an integral part of my life and the foundation of my philosophy of education. I believe the most important goal we can have in teaching is to help lead our students to their vocation of sainthood in Heaven. I was led to SDJCA with that purpose in mind. I’ve been here only a short time, yet I feel already that this community is where I belong. I’m excited to begin my teaching vocation at SDJCA and lead my students to know the Love of God in whom their hearts may rest.”
5th Grade Teacher
Mrs. Jennifer Roake
jroake@SDJacademy.org
Mrs. Roake is a dedicated and passionate educator with over a decade of experience in the field of education. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Trinity Christian College, Palos Height. Mrs. Roake is currently working towards her Master’s degree in Education from National Louis University, to be completed in the Spring of 2025. Mrs. Roake has nurtured the intellectual development of countless students. Her teaching philosophy is focused around a positive and inclusive learning environment where students are encouraged to think critically and express their creativity.
Mrs. Roake and her husband, Stephen, have been married for 16 years and have one daughter, Gigi, who is starting high school at St. Francis in Wheaton. The Roakes have two dogs, Bruce and Annabell, who go everywhere and do everything that the family does.
Hobbies: Boating and camping with my husband Steve and daughter , watching my daughter play volleyball, walking and cuddling her dogs
Favorite Bible quote:
“Everything is possible for one who believes.” Mark 9:23
“What led me to SDJCA was while interviewing for the 2024-2025 school year; Mr. Newton made such a great impression on me that I could not pass up the opportunity to be part of SDJCA’s development. Even though I had several offers I felt the pull of God and my faith that I would be needed at SDJCA. If we don’t help each other, who will?”
6th Grade Homeroom
Miss Isabella Ray
iray@SDJacademy.org
Miss Ray is a product of Catholic schools starting with St Joseph School (2016), Joliet Catholic Academy (2020), and is a recent graduate of Lewis University (2024) with a Bachelor’s in Middle Level Education, a concentration in Math, a minor in Theology, and a Master’s endorsement in Special Education. Miss Ray has been a student-athlete since junior high as a volleyball player and finished her career at Lewis University last fall. She uses her volleyball knowledge to coach 8th grade club volleyball. She student taught at St. Michael School in Orland Park and worked as a permanent substitute teacher here at SDJCA last school year in 4th grade.
Hobbies: Reading, playing volleyball, exercising, spending time with her family and friends, and cuddling with her two dogs
Favorite Bible quote: “Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
“I have known that I wanted to be a Catholic school teacher from an early age. My parents sacrificed so much to put me and my siblings through Catholic schooling, and I can truly say it has made me who I am today. I am so looking forward to continuing the work of Catholic education and KEEPING God in every aspect of life. I grew up in this very building and now get to experience it from a different perspective. It is very important to me to teach my students by word and example each day both in and out of the classroom.”
7th Grade Homeroom
Junior High Social Studies Teacher
Mr. Jacob Barrett
jbarrett@SDJacademy.org
Mr. Barrett began his education at Saint Dennis School and graduated in 2012. After high school, he earned his Associate of Arts from Joliet Junior College and his Bachelor of Arts from Lewis University in History and Secondary Education. Currently, he is a grad school student at Loyola University to obtain his Master of Arts in Public History. He has served as a Museum Educator at Naper Settlement and as a Lead Teacher at Huntington Learning Center.
Hobbies: Fishing, reading, watching documentaries, and traveling
Favorite Bible quote: “Save your people, O God, and bless your inheritance!” Psalm 28:9
“In 2012, I graduated from Saint Dennis School and was deeply inspired by the dedication and passion of my teachers. My love for history, ignited during my grade school years, led me to pursue a degree in History and Education. When I saw an opening at SDJCA, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to return to a community that had given me so much. I am most excited about the chance to inspire and educate the next generation, just as my teachers did for me. Being part of SDJCA feels like coming home, and I am thrilled to contribute to its legacy of excellence and community.”
8th Grade Homeroom
Junior High ELA Teacher
Lead Teacher – North Campus
Mrs. Sandra Profeta
sprofeta@SDJacademy.org
Mrs. Profeta grew up in Lockport and graduated from St. Dennis School and Providence Catholic High School (Go Celtics!). She has four grown sons and lives in Plainfield with her husband, Patrick. She graduated from Illinois Benedictine College (now Benedictine University) with a degree in Elementary Education and a minor in history. Over the years, she has taught every subject in every grade from 3rd to 8th with the exception of 7th/8th grade math. She started her teaching career as a 3rd grade teacher in Batavia, Illinois. After staying home for a period of time to raise her family, she worked as a special education resource teacher in the Plainfield schools. She was thrilled to come back to Lockport to begin teaching at St. Joseph School in 2021.
Favorite Bible quote: “Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it entered into the mind of man what God has prepared for those who love him.” 1Corinthinas 2:9-10
“I’m so proud to be a Catholic school teacher. There is something very special about incorporating the faith into the academic life of children. It is my personal philosophy that every child wants to succeed. It is our job to find their individual and unique strengths and then give them the guidance and support they need to achieve mastery in their academic subjects. God created them as unique individuals and we are privileged to help instill the love for God and love for learning that will prepare them for life and beyond.”
Junior High Science/STEM Teacher
Ms. Laura Thompson
Ms. Thompson holds a Master degree in Secondary Education from St. Xavier University. She received her special education endorsement (LBSI) from Lewis University in 2013. Ms. Thompson began teaching in Catholic schools in 2000. She has taught a variety of subjects from grades 5 – 12. She has been involved with various ministries; lector, cantor, choir, Eucharistic minister, RE catechist and RCIA team member. In addition, Ms. Thompson is a professed member of the Third Order Secular Franciscans.
Hobbies: Reading, needlework, drawing, painting
Favorite Bible quote: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
“I have been teaching special education for the last 11 years. Many schools do not have the sense of community and purpose that can be found in Catholic schools. I am most excited about incorporating hands-on experiences like STEM projects into SDJCA classes and making connections between science and math and real life.”
K-8th Art Teacher
Mrs. Lisa Boyer
lboyer@SDJacademy.org
Mrs. Boyer has a Bachelor degree in Fine Arts (Visual Arts, Music, and Drama) with a K-9
teaching certificate from The College of St. Francis, Joliet. During the first ten years of her
teaching career, Mrs. Boyer taught at St. Thaddeus School in Joliet. This experience
brought many opportunities for growth in elementary education, student relations, and personal spiritual faith formation. Mrs. Boyer has taught Religion, Art and been a part of the Catechesis of the Good Shepard at St. Dennis School from 2007 – 2023, before joining the SDJCA family last year. Mrs. Boyer and her husband Tony are the proud parents of John – SDS ~2014 and Allison – SDS~ 2015.
Hobbies: Drawing, painting, cooking, gardening, reading, and spending time with friends and family
Favorite Bible Quote: “There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens.” Ecclesiastes 3:1
“After my husband and I moved into Lockport to start our family, we felt that it was important to raise our children in the Catholic Faith. Once our children were school age, I took a job as a Catechist at St. Dennis and then became the art teacher; a job that quickly became a mission of love and service. Art and Religion is such a part of who I am and who I want to be. Being made in the image of God and working closely with children, I have come to believe that creativity is woven into our DNA. When we create, we are honoring “The Creator” with our time and talent. I have enjoyed watching children grow and develop into people of faith, hope, and love. When St. Dennis School and St. Joseph School came together, I felt that God wasn’t done with me yet and that I was needed to continue with this mission. The children have always been the best part of my career.”
K-8 Physical Education Teacher
Mr. Jack Hagan
jhagan@SDJacademy.org
Mr. Hagan attains a Bachelor degree in Kinesiology and Recreation K-12 and will be teaching K-8 Physical Education at SDJCA.
Hobbies: playing sports, playing music, playing video games, reading books, drawing, fashion, singing, dancing, enjoying nature with my friends and loved ones
Favorite Bible quote: “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Mark 9:23
“What led me to teaching at SDJCA was wanting to make a difference for each and every one of the kids that I will teach for them to carry a set of morals and values they will obtain and carry for the rest of their lives.”
Director of Institutional Advancement Music/Choir/Drama
Mrs. Michelle Ray
Mrs. Ray holds a Bachelor of Music Performance from DePaul University, Chicago. She was Advancement Director, Music Teacher and Choir Director at St. Joseph School from 2003-2023. In addition to being the Director of Institutional Advancement for SDJCA, Mrs. Ray returns to the classroom for PS-8th grade Music, directs the SDJCA Choir and will begin the inaugural year of the SDJCA Drama Club. Mrs. Ray and her husband, Jeff, are both part of the Music Ministry at St. Joseph Church and are proud alumni parents of three.
Hobbies: Music, Cubbies, watching my girls play volleyball, time spent with family, my 2 boxers, time at the beach
Favorite Bible quote: “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Matthew 6:21
“While sharing the love of music and promoting a Catholic school in Lockport started as a job in 2003, it didn’t take long for me to realize that the special place I was led to was exactly where my family was meant and called to be. Through valuable experiences, enriched faith, friendships, change and growth, I remain here because I believe in the mission and importance of Catholic education and am committed to the community that has given my family a strong foundation and forever memories. Music is my passion and gift from God…being able to share it with others is a blessing and a privilege. Like St. Augustine says, “Singing is praying twice!” I treasure my time here and it is a place that I am very proud to be a part of.”
