Specials Teachers

Thomas Kump
Physical Education Preschool-8th

Education

Cleveland State University
Bachelor of Science in Education – Physical Education

Emporia State University – Health Education

Philosophy

I believe in educating my students minds and bodies. I believe in the acceptance of all students and their abilities. I believe in creating a respectful, responsible, and safe learning environment that allows participation and learning to take place, and with that comes students who are excited to come to class everyday.

I love working at Mater Dei Academy because of the welcoming environment created by all the students, staff, and families.

Erica Backer
Art K-8

Education

The University of Akron
Bachelor of Arts in Visual Art PreK-12 Art Licensure

Philosophy

My role as an art educator is to create a learning environment that supports respect, community and creative minds. I believe that artistic expression is a powerful way for people to witness the creation of God that is all around us, and that this is an important skill for our young students to be taught.

I am truly blessed to be a part of the MDA community. Not only are the staff supportive in the Arts, but the families are as well. I also appreciate how creative my students are.

Marietta Hrach
Library

Education

Lakeland Community College

Philosophy
Education should be about skills that students can use in all areas of life.

I enjoy working at Mater Dei Academy because of the children. They are like snowflakes, all different but beautiful in their own way.

Heather Liuzzo
Music PreK-8

School

Heidelberg University
Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance/Pedagogy

Philosophy
Education is a lifelong process. We can all learn something new every day. I hope to broaden my students’ knowledge and always keep learning myself.

Mater Dei truly offers opportunities for every child to learn and grow in the ways that are best for them; we have a caring staff and they encourage each child to shine in their own special way.

Marcela Rodriguez
Spanish Preschool-8th

Education

Mexico

Philosophy
Teaching and learning should be fun and challenging.

I love the teachers, staff, and students at Mater Dei. We are a big Catholic family.

Maureen Frydl
Computer Pre-K-8

Education

Ursline College
Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art & Associates in Computer Science

Philosophy

The goal of technology classes are to have an understanding of technology used for productivity, communication, and information research. Students will experience and integrate technology in other curricular areas, gain an increased knowledge of technology, be prepared with necessary technology skills and use technology within the context of Catholic values.

I really enjoy seeing the students every week and feel this work we do in the computer lab enriches and reinforces the learning process they encounter with other classroom teachers here at Mater Dei Academy!