Faculty & Staff
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
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Bio
Mrs. Nilma Osiecki joined St. Bartholomew School July 1st, 2019. Prior to becoming the principal at St. Bart's, Mrs. Osiecki spent two years as the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment at St. Viator School. She joined the Archdiocese of Chicago, Office of Catholic Schools, after dedicating 26 years to the Chicago Public School System where she served in many capacities including, teacher aide, bilingual teacher, district administrator, assistant principal, and as principal for almost 10 years. In addition, her professional expertise includes the following areas:
Mrs. Osiecki's personal qualities include those of a good listener, compassionate, understanding, fair, trustworthy, and service-oriented. She acquired a B.A. in Elementary Education with a Double Major in Bilingual and Bi-Cultural Studies from Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU), a Masters Degree in Elementary School Administration and Supervision, also from NEIU, and is currently a Doctoral Student at Loyola University. To learn more about Mrs. Osiecki, visit the Principal's Corner tab. |
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Bio
BA African Studies & Women’s and Gender Studies MAT Education, Middle School Concentration MEd Education Administration Hi! I'm Ms. Scott. I began my journey as an educator in 2009 teaching 6th grade Reading and Social Studies in Chicago Public Schools. In 2017, I joined the St. Bart’s community as the Middle School English Language Arts instructor teaching grades 5 - 8. Now, I serve St. Bartholomew School as the Assistant Principal. Not only do I work at the school, but I have a little one who attends as well- since Pre-K 3- and participates in many of the extracurricular activities offered. I was born and raised in Chicago never straying far from a Catholic education- Holy Angels, St. Hilary’s, St. Ed’s, Mother Guerin, DePaul University, and Concordia University. Outside of education, I enjoy reading all kinds of books, experimenting with different recipes, and going on adventures near and far. I believe school should be a safe place- academically, socially, and spiritually. It is my goal that through building relationships with students, faculty, staff, parents, and community partners, we can work together to help our children grow into respectful, responsible, and reflective leaders of our global community. |
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Bio
Gigi Ybarra has been part of the St. Bartholomew School community since 2004, when she enrolled her eldest daughter in the Pre-K program. Both her daughters attended St. Bartholomew School from Pre-K to 8th grade. Mrs. Ybarra started volunteering as an art mom, became a member of the Parent Club and in 2009 was hired to work in the school office as the financial secretary. In addition to her financial responsibilities, she served as the bilingual liaison for current families and prospective Spanish-speaking parents enrolling at St. Bartholomew. Mrs. Ybarra was instrumental in assisting families with the enrollment process including registration and applying for financial assistance and scholarships. As the School Administrative Assistant, Mrs. Ybarra works closely with the principal to oversee the day-to-day administrative school operations and handles the communications efforts for the school. She is also the Site Administrator for the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth ensuring employees and volunteers are in full compliance, and is currently part of the Operations, Health & Safety Team to ensure all COVID guidelines and protocols are followed. Mrs. Ybarra holds a B.S. in Marketing from DePaul University. |
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Bio
Michael Giordano was named the Director of Marketing and Development for St. Bartholomew School in July 2021. However, he is not unfamiliar to the Crusaders. Michael is a proud member of St. Bartholomew School’s Class of 1991. In the photo above, we see him as a Kindergartener. After graduating from St. Barts, Michael attended [and graduated from] St. Patrick High School and Loyola University Chicago. Michael has served on the St. Bartholomew School Advisory Board for many years. He is also the Director of Marketing and Development for St. John Brebeuf School (SJB) in Niles - a position that he has held since 2019. During his time at SJB, he has spearheaded numerous successful fundraising events while - most importantly - growing the school’s enrollment. Michael also coordinates the school’s student-run media platform, WSJB. In addition, he has built the Jaguars’ cheerleading program from the ground up. (Fun Fact: Mrs. Reynoldson was Michael’s 1st Grade teacher.) |
Early Childhood
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Bio
My name is Monique, or as my students call me “Ms. Monique”. I am a native Chicagoan born, raised, & grew up on the north and northwest side of the city. I studied & graduated from Northeastern Illinois University. I received my bachelors degree in Early Childhood with a minor in Language Arts. I have been working on my masters degree in Early Childhood Special Education. My husband of sixteen years and I have chosen to raise our two daughters on the north side of the city. We feel the city has given our girls a diverse upbringing and offers a multitude of cultural experiences. A little about me personally; my hobbies are photography, baking, and reading. I am also a foodie and love a good deep dish pizza. Lastly, our home is a house divided when it comes to baseball; the girls and I are die hard Cubbies fan and my husband a Sox fan. I’ve worked for the Archdiocese of Chicago for over sixteen years. I’ve taught at several schools. All of my years in education have in preschool and a year in Kindergarten. I’m very happy to be a part of the St. Bartholomew community as it’s a very special and welcoming community. I look forward to getting to know my students and their family’s throughout the 2021-2022 school year. -Monique |
Primary Grades
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Bio
Kindergarten teachers create an enjoyable, fulfilling learning environment for their students. Mrs. Marchant endeavors to meet the needs of each child, encourage each child to try his/her best, and nurture the love of learning! Realizing that kindergarten children are active learners, she provides a variety of engaging experiences: ~ thematic projects for reading readiness ~ creative opportunities in art, music, movement, play, design ~ cooperative group work to build the concept of “team” ~ center work ~ experiments ~ problem solving situations |
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Bio
B.A. Education To nurture continuing growth and success in school and provide students with learning opportunities to: ~ foster cooperation, confidence, inquisitive questioning ~ develop critical and creative thinking skills ~ communicate ideas in a variety of ways ~ participate more fully in the sacramental life of the church ~ develop a strong foundation in the reading, writing, listening, speaking skills ~ advance in the study of math, science, and social studies |
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My Mission Statement: To be the difference... To create an impactful, stimulating, fun, and safe environment for students to explore and grow. I am excited to work another year with the 3rd and 4th Grade Crusaders. Together we can make a difference and help our students advance their learning by building their imagination/creativity and working with them on strengthening their skills to prepare them to face the world outside the classroom. |
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BA Elementary Education MA Teacher Leadership Hi! I’m Mrs. Griffin. I’ve been teaching at St. Bart’s for over 10 years and have worked for the Archdiocese of Chicago for nearly 30 years! Not only am I a teacher here but I am a former parent as well as an active member of St. Bartholomew Church/Our Lady of the Rosary Parish. I was born and raised in Chicago having attended St. Veronica, St. Viator and Good Counsel High School. Outside of teaching, I love hiking, especially the National Parks as well as getting my hands dirty in my garden and listening to the birds! In the classroom, I strive to prepare each student for actively participating in our global community. Each student is encouraged to grow socially and emotionally as well as academically. I work to help each student develop a Growth Mindset. As the 3rd & 4th Grade Math/Science teacher I try to promote student love of learning by engaging students in activities that have real life value, are culturally-responsive and incorporate student interest. In addition to teaching third and fourth grade, I have assumed the role of Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment. In this role, I work closely with Mrs. Osiecki as well as the faculty to ensure optimal learning environments for all students. Using multiple forms of data including the I-Ready diagnostic, I work with the faculty to optimize and individualize student instruction and learning. |
Middle Grades
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Bio
Hello St. Bart's Families!! My name is Mr. Butz, I am the 5th-8th Grade Social Studies Teacher and the 6th Grade Religion Teacher this year! This is my page for our Social Studies and Religion updates. This will be my 4th year at St. Barts!! Woohoo!! I am excited and blessed to start this new school year with you!! I received my BA in History and Secondary Education at North Park University here in Chicago, IL. Fun Fact: I am the Men's and Women's Head Wrestling Coach at Morton College! Below I have my email and the Middle School Website. If you or your student ever need to contact me, please email me at cbutz@stbartholomew.net Middle School Website - https://sites.google.com/stbartholomew.net/stbartsmiddleschool/home |
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Hello Everybody!! My name is Mr. Rolando Perez. I am the new science teacher for 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th. This will be my first year teaching . Some or even most of you know me for working with Mrs. Maria Arrez in religious education and the parish rectory. I was born and raised in Chicago; Attended Chicago Academy High School. Earned a B.A in Political Science and Minors in Criminology and Sociology from Dominican University. Fun Facts: I am a huge U.S history and politics nerd!! I have a small (but growing) silver collection and I also love chocolate chip cookies. |
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Hi there, my name is Mr. Chase. I am entering my fifth year living in Chicago and I absolutely love our city! Originally, I hail from Colorado, however, I spent seven of my adolescent years overseas in the country of Slovakia. There, I had the opportunity to teach middle and high schoolers various musical instruments as well as have a short stint coaching baseball. I have recently completed my bachelor’s degree from the Moody Bible Institute in Biblical and Theological studies. I have a special interest in learning new ideas, reading new authors, and enjoy cultivating community and artistry with people in various spheres of influence. Here’s to a great 2022–2023 school year! |
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Welcome to the 2022-2023 school year. I am excited to be teaching middle school math this year. I spent the summer working on student-centered stations and problem-based learning projects. I have my B.A. in sociology and a minor in natural science from Loyola University. I received my teaching certification from Northeastern. I encourage my students to use a growth mindset and to look at every mistake as an opportunity for growth; I believe that students may need multiple chances to interact with new material. I use various learning styles and strategies to reinforce the material being learned. Both formative and summative assessments are used to document students' progress. Formative assessments, such as homework, are a valuable tool to gauge a student's understanding Mistakes provide opportunities to look for patterns of misunderstandings. When students work independently or in small groups in the classroom, I encourage students to use flexible seating. There are several pillows, bean bags, and tables for alternative seating. Mrs. Gambino Middle School Math St. Bartholomew School |
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Bio
Hello St Bart's Mrs. Foster is one of two Title 1 teachers at St. Bart’s. Mrs. Foster helps students with both reading and math, and provides academic coaching services. Mrs. Foster holds a Masters of Teaching and has been teaching for 16 years. When Mrs. Foster is not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and 4 children, plus her international student. Together, they enjoying baking and cooking, playing games, visiting National Parks, and having dance parties! One of Mrs. Foster’s greatest accomplishments was completing the 2019 Chicago Marathon. |
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Ms. Mary Nevins
Speech Therapy Bio
Mary received her BA in psychology from Vanderbilt University in 2019 and her MA in speech language pathology from the University of Iowa in 2022. She has been working as a speech-language pathologist at Communication Clubhouse since the summer of 2022. She is excited to work with the students at St. Bartholomew to help them achieve their goals and boost their confidence in communication. |
Resource
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Bio
I teach Spanish to PK - 8 at St. Bartholomew School. This is my second year at St. Bart's working with the Spanish-Language Immersion Program. I have volunteered and worked with children for 7 years and I help coach the school dance club. I am from the southwest side of the city and I am pursuing a degree in Sociology. |
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Bio
My name is Rashod Whitaker, and I am a first-year PE teacher. In 2018, I graduated from Eastern Illinois University while obtaining my B.A. in Public Relations. During the pandemic, I earned my certification to substitute in the state of Illinois. This past year, I substituted for 7 different districts and 13 different schools throughout the Chicagoland area. A few fun facts about me! My favorite color is black. My favorite food is lobster. My favorite hobbies include basketball, video games, coloring, and socializing with my friends |
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Hello St Bart's Families, I have been part of St. Bartholomew school and parish for 24 years. I am the proud mom of four graduates from St. Bartholomew. I am in my 18th year as Director of Athletics at St. Bart's School. Playing a sport helps children develop social skills which would benefit them even when they grow older. Playing sports teaches them about teamwork and cooperating with others. They learn to interact with people from different ages. Also, joining a sports team helps give children a sense of belonging and gives them an opportunity to make friends. With more friendship circles, it would help improve their communication skills, which will help them in their future careers and relationships. Have a great school year. |
Support Staff
Ms. Maria Teruel
School Aide
My name is Maria Teruel. I am the daughter of Italian immigrants. I have been involved with Catholic education all my life. As a student, as a Catechist, as a parent, as a volunteer and as an employee. I have been connected with several Catholic schools in Chicago. In 2009, I had the pleasure of adding St. Bartholomew to my family.
Everyday is a new adventure and I always look forward to my days.
I thank all who make me smile every day.
School Aide
My name is Maria Teruel. I am the daughter of Italian immigrants. I have been involved with Catholic education all my life. As a student, as a Catechist, as a parent, as a volunteer and as an employee. I have been connected with several Catholic schools in Chicago. In 2009, I had the pleasure of adding St. Bartholomew to my family.
Everyday is a new adventure and I always look forward to my days.
I thank all who make me smile every day.
Ms. Laura Skiba
School Aide
Hello there! My name is Laura Skiba, and I have been a part of St. Bartholomew School and parish for majority of my life. I was born and raised in the Portage Park neighborhood and still live within the community. I even attended St. Bartholomew School and am now a part of the alumni community. I started working at St. Bartholomew School in 1999 and twelve of those years as a teacher's aide. I am so proud to be a member of the St. Bartholomew community.
Fun facts about myself:
My husband and I just celebrated 30 years of marriage. We have one daughter, who is also an alumni. My hobbies are scrapbooking, knitting, baking, and of course shopping.
School Aide
Hello there! My name is Laura Skiba, and I have been a part of St. Bartholomew School and parish for majority of my life. I was born and raised in the Portage Park neighborhood and still live within the community. I even attended St. Bartholomew School and am now a part of the alumni community. I started working at St. Bartholomew School in 1999 and twelve of those years as a teacher's aide. I am so proud to be a member of the St. Bartholomew community.
Fun facts about myself:
My husband and I just celebrated 30 years of marriage. We have one daughter, who is also an alumni. My hobbies are scrapbooking, knitting, baking, and of course shopping.
Sra. Socorro Mendez
Food Service Program Supervisor
Food Service Program Supervisor
Parish Staff
Mr. Michael O'Connell
Parish Administrator
Fr. Mike joined the family of the St. Bartholomew Parish in 2019.
Parish Administrator
Fr. Mike joined the family of the St. Bartholomew Parish in 2019.
Mrs. Maria Arrez
Coordinator of Religious Education
Maria Arrez earned her master's degree from Chicago Theological Union University in the field of Hispanic Theology Ministry. She has worked for the Archdiocese of Chicago for 26 years in different Parishes as Director of Religious Education, currently in St. Bartholomew for 11 years now. From her consolidation as a Catholic in her formative years, inherited from her parents, finally, her own experience, it is her firm conviction that God is showing her the way through many people of faith and prepared that she has known in her life.
Maria Arrez obtuvo su maestría en Chicago Teológical Union University en el ramo de Teología en Ministerio Hispano. Ha trabajado para la Archidiócesis de Chicago por 26 años en diferentes Parroquias como Directora de Educación Religiosa, actualmente en San Bartolomé por 11 años ya. Desde su consolidación como católica en sus años formativos, por inherencia a sus padres y, finalmente, experiencia propia, es su firme convicción que Dios le va mostrando el camino a través de muchas gentes de Fe y preparadas que ha conocido en su vida.
Coordinator of Religious Education
Maria Arrez earned her master's degree from Chicago Theological Union University in the field of Hispanic Theology Ministry. She has worked for the Archdiocese of Chicago for 26 years in different Parishes as Director of Religious Education, currently in St. Bartholomew for 11 years now. From her consolidation as a Catholic in her formative years, inherited from her parents, finally, her own experience, it is her firm conviction that God is showing her the way through many people of faith and prepared that she has known in her life.
Maria Arrez obtuvo su maestría en Chicago Teológical Union University en el ramo de Teología en Ministerio Hispano. Ha trabajado para la Archidiócesis de Chicago por 26 años en diferentes Parroquias como Directora de Educación Religiosa, actualmente en San Bartolomé por 11 años ya. Desde su consolidación como católica en sus años formativos, por inherencia a sus padres y, finalmente, experiencia propia, es su firme convicción que Dios le va mostrando el camino a través de muchas gentes de Fe y preparadas que ha conocido en su vida.
