FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
INSTILLING A COLLABORATIVE SPIRIT AT THE PREP
W hile celebrating Women ’ s History Month and her first year as Fordham Prep ’ s Dean of Faculty , Claire McCarrick is also reflecting on her completion of the Jesuit School Network ( JSN ) Seminars in Ignatian Leadership program .
I love bringing people together as much as possible . I have such great love , admiration , and respect for the people here .”
— Claire McCarrick Dean of Faculty
The two-year program brings together leaders from Jesuit schools around the United States for spiritual and professional development . She applies the concepts learned during program retreats and sessions to her job each day as she helps enhance faculty growth , development , and culture .
“ I really felt a desire to serve and to help our faculty ,” replied McCarrick when asked why she decided to apply for the role last year . Now in her 16th year as an educator , McCarrick joined the Prep ’ s Mathematics Department in 2013 . She previously taught at Cardinal Spellman High School , her alma mater .
Claire McCarrick , Dean of Faculty
Perhaps one of McCarrick ’ s biggest projects this school year is helping to facilitate faculty growth and development through a partnership with the Middle States Association . The program , dubbed the Rev . Stan O ’ Konsky , SJ Seeking Excellence in Teaching Initiative , encourages teachers to invite colleagues into their classrooms for continued feedback on their lessons throughout the school year . Currently in its pilot phase , the program not only helps teachers improve lesson plans but also fosters collaboration among the faculty .
“ I think it ’ s important to instill a sense of collaboration ,” McCarrick stated . “ In order for people to feel comfortable collaborating they need to know each other personally , and finding ways to help people get to know each other better helps foster belonging ,” she continued .
McCarrick shared a photo of herself and two other Jesuit school leaders sporting the shirts at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale , Arizona , where she was participating in the JSN Seminars in Ignatian Leadership at the time .
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FORDHAM PREP RAMVIEW