Lessons to Live By

Sister Carol Ann Papp extends
her heart and hands to her
students and the community

The lessons that Sister Carol Ann Papp, a teacher at Northside Catholic Assumption Academy in Pittsburgh, Pa., imparts on her students extend far beyond the classroom and, if she’s living up to her own expectations, lift them up in life, as well.

“My main goal is to help them understand their uniqueness in the eyes of God, to respect each other’s uniqueness and to be kind and forgiving as God is kind and forgiving to us,” says Sister Carol Ann. “Knowing and believing they are loved by God is the ultimate goal.”

Sister teaches art to children in kindergarten through eighth grade and also teaches religion to the upper grades. She begins each class with a prayer, introducing students to various types of prayer and ways of praying. The art curriculum she develops and implements is a vehicle for her students’ creativity and by which they can bring joy to others.

She subscribes to the saying “God, lead me where you need me.” Even after 50 years in the classroom, Sister Carol Ann remains refreshed and excited to be with her students each day. She’s also still a student herself, broadening her own outlook on the world through preparation for her classes.

“What I enjoy most is bringing Christ to those I work with and teach. Being part of a community of faculty members allows me to extend our mission, not only to the students, but also to all those I encounter throughout the school day.”