Maureen L. Hill

I strive to allow my students the opportunity to experience valid success related to science at the junior high level and enable them to enter high school with an open mind related to their interest in and the possibility of pursuing a science related career.

Science is everywhere and should be experienced, not simply studied in a classroom or read in a textbook.  Because of this, students are frequently outside collecting data to be graphed and analyzed later.  Hands on labs are an important part of every unit in 6th, 7th and 8th grades.  Ss. Simon and Jude follows the Diocesan Science Curriculum, which incorporates the State and National Science Curriculums.

I have been teaching in the Diocese of Phoenix since 1995.  I began teaching at Ss. Simon and Jude in 1998. 

I am currently the Science Teacher for grades 6, 7 and 8  as well as the Science Curriculum Committee Chairperson.  I was part of the Diocesan Science Curriculum Committee to revise the K-8 Science Curriculum (2003-2004).

I completed by MA Ed in Curriculum and Instruction in 2005.

I am a member of NSTA (National Science Teachers Association), ASTA (Arizona Science Teachers Association) and AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics).

Mrs. Sally O’Neill Pisciotta has taught at SSJ for 7 years.  She teaches 7th grade religion and does resource teaching.  She is also our Liturgy Coordinator and New Teacher Mentor.

Mrs. Mary Sue Palazzolo has taught at SSJ since 1999.  Mrs. Palazzolo teaches 7th grade and 8th grade Literature, and is also in charge of our “Talent Show” every year, which showcases some of our awesome talent here at SSJ!!

Mrs. Sue Kelling has taught at Ss. Simon & Jude for 8 years.  This is her 23rd year of teaching middle school Math.  One of her favorite memories is that of the Loreto Sisters performing at the auctions.  (Priceless!!)  Mrs. Kelling says,  “I have many daily special moments at SSJ, and I am blessed.”

Mr. Larry Billar has taught at SSJ since 1989 (18+ years).  He has taught for a total of 21+ years.  “Every year and class is special.  My mentor teacher warned me about becoming a “lifer” at SSJ.  Too late!!  I’m a lifer!!”

This is Mrs. Amy McNair’s second year teaching at SSJ, and we are blessed to have her with us!!  She teaches 7th and 8th grade English.

Mrs. Linda Fischetti has been teaching at SSJ since 2001, and currently teaches 8th grade Religion.  Mrs. Fischetti says, “I am still in awe of being able to share our faith on a daily basis, pray together and being able to celebrate the Eucharist as a school community.”

Mrs. Justine Keebler has been teaching at SSJ since 2001.  Her favorite thing about SSJ is the community.  “We are so lucky to have the Loreto Sisters on campus, in addition to the wonderful students and parents.”  Her cutest memory is when a Kindergartener came to her, holding her face and telling her - “Coach, it’s super duper hot!”  It was adorable!