From the King Street Chronicle: Thank you, Teachers......Love, the Class of 2025

Thank you, Teachers... Love, the Class of 2025

by Caroline Gammon ‘26

As the Class of 2025 prepares to close their journey at Sacred Heart Greenwich, they extend their heartfelt gratitude to the teachers who have shaped them and made their Sacred Heart education possible. Enjoy these special messages of appreciation from seniors to their teachers in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week.

Dr. William Mottolese, Upper School English Teacher

"Before coming to Sacred Heart Upper School, I never would have called myself an English person, yet my sophomore English class with Doc Mott changed me in such a fundamental way that now English is truly my favorite subject. For the entirety of my sophomore year, and the years following, Doc Mott was nothing short of my biggest supporter, and simultaneously my most honest critic. He was the push that helped me to step into the writer and thinker I never knew I was capable of becoming thanks to his unwavering optimism and enthusiasm for connecting with students. The friendliest person on King Street, Doc Mott is always there to offer a warm 'hello' in the hallways and is someone who inspires me every day with his genuine passion for his work. Thank you Doc Mott for all you continue to do, not only [for] your students, but for the entire Upper School community."

- Gianna Walsh '25

Mr. Jonathan Peck, Upper School Art and Design Teacher

"Mr. Peck, thank you so much for being such an amazing art teacher, unofficial college advisor, and mentor all these years. If I wrote down every way Mr. Peck has helped both me, and the community in general, I think I'd be writing forever.  I truly cannot imagine where I would be without his help. His honest, encouraging feedback on my art has pushed me to always do better, and his calm, 'chill', presence has been insanely helpful during the stresses of the college process. I've enjoyed the music he plays in class, all the jokes from our art section, the Charlie-party planning, and all the fire drills we have completed in a safe and timely manner. He has taught me the importance of seeing projects through, and taking myself seriously, not undermining my talent as an artist. For this I cannot possibly thank him enough."

- Meghan (Meg) McGrath '25

Mr. Vincent Badagliacca, Upper School History Teacher and 5-12 History Department Chair

"Over the course of my high school experience, I have come to realize how much Mr. B influenced my growth as a student and individual. His genuine care for me and my peers and the way he always takes the time to listen, in or out of class, means the world to us. It is rare to find a mentor who not only teaches but truly inspires, and I am so grateful for how he has challenged me to think differently and be more confident in my own voice and persona. Mr. B’s patience, kindness, and willingness to offer advice have made a lasting difference in my life. Thank you for everything you have done for me and for the influence you leave."

- Sofia Latrille '25

Miss Michaela Gorman '05, Upper School Theatre Teacher and Director of Theatrical Productions

"Miss Gorman is one of the most constant and inspiring parts of my high school experience. She is a role model, a leader, and someone I will always look up to. Theatre has always been a home for me, and Miss Gorman is a huge reason why. She’s always encouraged me to try new things, take on different projects, and step outside my comfort zone as a performer. Her classroom has always been full of laughter, joy, and support because of the energy she brings to it. I’m so grateful for the way she laughs at my jokes, cheers me on, or just knows how to make me laugh when I need it most. She’s taught me more than just theatre, she’s shown me how to build community, care for others, and lead with kindness. Thank you for helping me grow into the person and performer I am today."

- Natasha Stewart '25

Ms. Ellen Spillane, Upper School Math Teacher

"Over the past few years Ms. Spillane has been an immensely influential and supportive figure in the Upper School. As a teacher, she has been so thoughtful in everything she does and always makes sure that each of her students is confident in their abilities. She dedicates so much of her time to helping her students and always goes the extra mile to ensure her students grasp topics fully and gain a deeper knowledge of subjects. Regardless of whether a student is struggling or finding success, Ms. Spillane always shows so much patience and care for all of her students, by being there for them and always encouraging them to do their best. Ms. Spillane has helped me to learn to never give up and always persevere with patience and gratitude, both in the classroom and outside. Thank you Ms. Spillane for being an amazing teacher for our class and myself over the past few years."

- Daphne Fallon '25

Dr. Saffron Castle, Upper School Science Teacher

"For the past two years, I have been blessed to be taught by Dr. Castle in two of the most difficult subjects I can even imagine studying. I may not ever remember Avogadro’s number, or the direction that rolling friction is supposed to point on a free body diagram, but I know I won’t forget the kindness and dedication Dr. Castle has shown me, like when she brought in special treats from the UK on our AP exam day. From demonstrating the effects of torque by dropping rolls of toilet paper from the science wing hallway to discussing her experience and perspective as a woman of science and faith, Dr. Castle has not only brought learning to life, but taught me how relevant it is in my own life. Thank you."

- Teresa Harkins '25

Mrs. Jillian Bozzi, Upper School History Teacher

"Mrs. Bozzi, thank you for being a constant source of support, laughter, and wisdom throughout my time in the Upper School.  As both my advisor and AP Psychology teacher this year, she's played such an important role in shaping my experience. She has created a space where we could be ourselves, grow together, and feel truly seen and heard. Her warmth, honesty, and sense of humor have made such a lasting impact, and I'm so grateful for everything she's done. I'll miss her so much next year, but I know the lessons she's taught me, both academic and personal, will stay with me always. Thank you."

- Mackenzie Gillen '25

Madame Marie Hubert, Upper School World Language Teacher and 9-12 World Language Department Chair

"I am so grateful for Madame Hubert and the love and dedication which she pours into her teaching. I have always enjoyed learning French, but my appreciation of the language and culture has grown so much through Madame's enthusiasm and passion for the subject. She always encourages us to be more confident in our abilities and push ourselves out of our comfort zone.  Madame is also the kindest and most considerate person, and some of my favorite memories of class with her are sharing funny stories or having random conversations about celebrities and current events. I will miss Madame Hubert so much next year and am incredibly thankful for all she does for our community."

- Lily Carroll '25

Dr. Cristina Baptista, Upper School English Teacher, Perspectives Advisor, and Chair of Committee on Community and Belonging

"Over the last four years, Dr. Baptista has served as a great teacher and mentor to me.  In so many ways, she has been the 'green light' at the end of the dock, instilling in me a sense of hope that one day my work will be recognized and also a passion for literature. Although cliché, there are not enough words in the English language (and I’m an English major) to express the gratitude I have for Dr. Baptista. Thank you, Dr. Baptista. I will forever be grateful for all the conversations we have had in the hallway over books and for all the recommendations you have given me over the years (which were added to my ever-growing to be read list).  Above all, you have inspired me. Your own hard work and passion for words have given me the opportunity to have a teacher who I would stand up on the desks for like in Dead Poets Society and shout 'O Captain! My Captain!'  Ultimately, you have been (and are) someone who I look up to both as a literary role model and someone who embodies independence and determination. While I will miss talking about Jane Austen, the Brontë sisters, Charles Dickens, Ernest Hemingway, and Virginia Woolf with you every day next year, I look forward to our literary discussions in the future."

- Emily Shull '25

Dr. Melissa Pecullan, Upper School Math and Science Teacher and 7-12 Math Department Chair

"I can wholeheartedly say that there are few people in my whole life who have inspired and supported me as much as Dr. Pecullan. I entered the physics lab as a nervous, new Sacred Heart student and freshman, completely unaware of what the next four years would look like. Throughout the plethora of trials and tribulations that inevitably occurred during high school, Dr. Pecullan was a constant. Her unwavering support as a teacher, advisor, and mentor is something that I will never forget or be able to adequately articulate how much it means to me. Academically, I am amazed by her utter brilliance and vast knowledge that is seemingly never-ending. Her attentiveness to her students' individual learning styles and willingness to dedicate time to help outside the classroom are true testaments to her unparalleled teaching abilities. Yet, beyond her role as an educator, Dr. Pecullan is an understanding, encouraging, and proactive advisor. Not only does she share words of wisdom that emanate from her many years of experience as an educator, student, and mother, but it is evident that she is sincerely invested in the wellbeing and success of her advisees. While the journey has not been easy, having Dr. Pecullan by my side made high school a worthwhile experience that I will cherish forever. To have Dr. Pecullan in your life is to know true support, true prowess, and that truly, women can do anything they put their minds to. Dr. Pecullan, 'thank you' will never be enough, but for now, thank you for believing in me when I struggled to. You will never know the magnitude of your impact."

- Maxine Boeding '25

The seniors have deeply cherished their time at Sacred Heart Greenwich, and they will carry the values, skills, and knowledge their teachers have instilled in them beyond their years on King Street.

Featured Image by Caroline Gammon '26

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