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Schools

St. Bernadette's New Principal Adds Classes, Teachers

John Stipek takes the reins during the first day of school today.

A new year, a new principal at St. Bernadette Parish.

John Stipek, a graduate of Ashland University with a Masters degree in education and six years of experience in private school administration, will be joining the staff of the catholic school this year.

“I think what I’d like to do [as principal] is one of the things I’ve always worked toward: instilling a positive environment… kids absorb that,” said Stipek, also a father of five children.

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“Because of all the different avenues that they’re touched by out in this world— internet, TV—so many influences, so many negative (influences) that lead them astray, we need to make them aware of what they’re doing and focused on making the right choices.” 

Stipek is most looking forward to meeting the close-knit community of St. Bernadette, and getting to interact with the children and their families. This is a big year for his own family: one daughter is heading off to Miami University, one daughter is getting married in October, and another daughter just recently got engaged to be married next July! He said the news of his daughters’ weddings was his favorite memory this summer. 

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Outside of school, Stipek is an avid sports fan. He has coached at St. Christopher Parish in Rocky River, high school basketball and fastpitch, and various recreation leagues.

“I enjoy sports, all sports,” Stipek said. “I officiate a lot of them… and I enjoy attempting golf,” he said with a laugh. Besides that, he just loves being with his family.

One of the first actions Stipek took as principal was adding more classes and more teachers at the third, fourth, and fifth grade level. There will also be an addition of Spanish to the seventh and eighth grade curriculum. Prior to this coming year there were no foreign language classes. Beyond that he wants to observe how things run before making any more changes.

School started today. To new students Stipek advised, “Come in with a positive attitude and an open mind. Be willing to learn—the teaching process is two fold, [and depends on] the teacher and the student.”

Stipek has a strong handshake and a friendly demeanor. If you were to walk into his office you’d see an assortment of Cleveland sports memorabilia and a collection of Ernie dolls, figurines, and pictures. I had to ask.

Stipek, slightly embarrassed, said that a long time ago his daughter got him a small Ernie statue from a garage sale and since then it’s become “a thing.” Family members and co-workers all started giving him Ernie gifts! The room was certainly a welcoming environment as principal offices go. And Stipek also wanted to note that he is a “lifetime, diehard fan” of Cleveland sports.

While first-time students come walking into an unfamiliar group of kids today, Stipek will surely sympathize, as he will be in a similar, but exciting situation.

“I continue to learn on the job everyday,” Stipek said.

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