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And another new week begins!
October 5, 2026
Today is
World Teachers’ Day is held annually on October 5 to celebrate all teachers around the globe. It commemorates the anniversary of the adoption of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers, which sets benchmarks regarding the rights and responsibilities of teachers, and standards for their initial preparation and further education, recruitment, employment, and teaching and learning conditions.
Within our congregation are several members who have contributed greatly as educators in the school systems.
Prior to becoming a priest, the Rev. Roger G. Allee was in the field of education. First as a teacher and later, at the urging of Broward County Public Schools, entered administrative positions and eventually became the Principal of two separate schools.
Sarah Leonardi, who served on our Vestry previously, is a teacher and the School Board Chair for Broward County Public Schools District 3.
Marie Petway taught full time for 40 years and then another five years as a substitute teacher in both public and private schools in Georgia, mostly kindergarten and first grade. "I love working with the little ones and I enjoy this ministry because I know how important it is for every child to start school with the necessary supplies,” said Marie. “It is embarrassing for a child to come with little-to-no supplies. I have witnessed this during my years of teaching. The donations our parish gives are giving every child the advantage of starting their year with the tools they need to succeed. Thank you, St. Nicholas!!” Marie’s love of teaching led her to become involved with our backpack ministry.
St. Nicholas Back-to-School Backpack Ministry was birthed in 2016 through the inspiration and initiative of another parishioner, Anaina DiGiovanna. “The first year it was just me collecting and shopping for supplies, with the support of Fr. Roger and Fr. Mark Andrew. We assembled and donated 20 Backpacks that first year.” The numbers have increased every year since and the 2027-28 school year will provide 120 backpacks filled with school supplies for local students in need.
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