Blog

As Thanksgiving approaches, during this season of gratitude, we at Royalmont Academy reflect on the countless blessings that enrich our school community. The mission to educate and form young minds in the Catholic tradition is a collaborative effort, requiring the dedication of many individuals. Therefore, we are profoundly grateful to everyone who sacrifices to ensure the success of our mission of forming strong Christian leaders prepared to transform society for Jesus Christ.

Our Teachers: Guiding Lights of Education

The heart of Royalmont Academy lies in our exceptional teachers, who work tirelessly to shape the minds and hearts of our students. They foster lifelong learning and spiritual growth, providing the foundation for future success. Moreover, these educators inspire, guide, and challenge our students every day, making an extraordinary impact on their lives.

PreK–Grade 4 Teachers
Our youngest learners benefit from the nurturing guidance of these dedicated educators, who create a strong academic and spiritual foundation:

• Mrs. Patty Moores, Preschool Teacher
• Mrs. Nancy Kenny, Preschool Teacher
• Mrs. Peg Vorhis, Preschool Teacher & Art Instructor
• Mrs. Karen Gately, Kindergarten Teacher
• Ms. Abigail Rose, 1st Grade Teacher
• Mrs. Margaret Plunkett, 2nd Grade Teacher
• Mrs. Chrisy Keefer, 3rd Grade Teacher
• Ms. Kelly Vale, 4th Grade Teacher

Grades 5–8 Teachers
Middle school is a critical time for growth. Consequently, our dedicated teachers encourage curiosity and build essential skills to prepare students for future success:

• Mrs.  Julie Angeles, Middle School Religion Teacher
• Mr. Luke Brown, Latin Teacher for Grades 7–8
• Mrs. Jenna Douglas-Fowler, Middle School English Language Arts Teacher
• Mr.  Brian Hester, Middle School Math Teacher
• Mr. David Hurley, Middle School Science Teacher
• Mr. Charles Skie, Middle School Social Studies Teacher

High School Teachers
Preparing students for college and beyond is no small task. However, our high school educators rise to the challenge, providing rigorous academics and faith-centered instruction:

• Mr. Luke Brown, High School Latin Teacher
• Ms. Monica Forsthoefel, High School Theology Teacher
• Mrs. Christine Gladden, High School History/AP Teacher
• Mrs. Brenda Hefferan, High School Spanish/AP Teacher
• Mrs. Cassie Kurz, High School Math Teacher
• Mr. Anthony Tepe, High School Literature Teacher
• Mrs. Kristen Schwind, High School Science Teacher

Specials Teachers
In addition to the core curriculum, our specials teachers enrich the learning experience by nurturing creativity, physical well-being, and cultural appreciation:

• Mrs. Michelle Asbrock, Physical Education Teacher
• Mrs. Anita Battaglia, Spanish Teacher
• Ms. Chloe Roh, Music Teacher
• Mrs. Peg Vorhis, Art Instructor

Our Support Staff: The Pillars Behind the Scenes

Behind every successful school is a team of support staff who ensure smooth operations. Their contributions are invaluable. Furthermore, their dedication creates a welcoming and efficient environment.

School Operations

• Ms. Abbie Kohler, Campus Minister
• Mr. Joe Meibers, Athletic Director
• Mrs. Shana Richardson, Front Office
• Fr. Jesús Salinas, Chaplain
• Mrs. Celeste Teaford, Front Office
• Mrs. Nathalie Tomeny, Cafeteria Manager
• Mrs. Shelley Haynes, Volunteer Librarian

Business Operations

• Mr. Chris Clark, IT Director
• Mrs. Karen Kinross, Admissions, Marketing, and Communications
• Mrs. Christine Miller, Testing, Auxiliary Funding, Executive Assistant
• Mrs. Anne Polak, Development Director
• Mrs. Jennifer Sprague, Finance Director

Facilities

• Mr. Jeff Polly, Facilities Director
• Mr. Connor Zink, Facilities Coordinator

Our Coaches

Royalmont coaches provide countless hours of training in both the sport and in virtue, including Mrs Beth Brink, Mr. Skie, Mr. Darren Backstrom, Mr. Chris Brown, Mr. Cody Gertz, Mr. Tony Braun, Mr. Chris Duffy, Mrs. Dustin Broek, Mr. Adam Mills, Mrs. Combs, and Miss Brittany, Mr. Keith Lesch.

Our Administration

Leadership is at the core of what we do. Consequently, our administration team works tirelessly to ensure the integral formation of our students:

• Mrs. Christine Gladden, High School Assistant Principal
• Mrs. Brenda Hefferan, PreK-8 Assistant Principal

RAPA
Royalmont Academy’s Parent Association provides needed support to our faculty, for events, for classroom, and so much more. Thanks to the RAPA leadership that includes Sarah Heist, Lynsey Webb, and Stephanie Statt. 

Our Board and Committees

The prayerful guidance and support of our board and committee members play a crucial role in advancing our mission. Additionally, they provide the leadership needed to sustain Royalmont Academy’s growth:

• Mr. Dan Navin, Chair
• Mrs. Lisa Brown, Vice Chair
• Mr. Don Chmiel, Secretary
• Mr. Bob Obert, Treasurer
• Deacon Mike Hinger, Past Chair
• Mrs. Tammy Silvestri
• Mrs. Elizabeth Conner
• Mr. Tom Steele

Special thanks also go to our Gala Committee for their dedication and hard work: Mrs. Stephanie Statt, Mrs. Katie Kirby, Mr. Zack Hinger, Mrs. Janina Broek, Mrs. Danielle Lesch, Mrs. Sara Gertz, Mrs. Laura Grijalba, Mrs. Angela Phillips, and Mr. Michael Richardson.

Our Donors and Sponsors

Generosity fuels our mission. Therefore, we are humbled by the time, talent, and treasure shared by our donors and sponsors. While many remain anonymous, their impact is felt daily, and we are profoundly thankful.

Our Parents and Families: Partners in Mission

The trust our parents place in us to educate and form their children is a sacred responsibility. Furthermore, their encouragement and involvement strengthen our community and provide a model of faith, excellence, and love for all to follow. During this season of gratitude, we are especially thankful for our parents.

Supporting Organizations and Partners

Our mission is further strengthened by the support of key organizations:

• Archdiocese of Cincinnati Catholic Schools Office: Grateful thanks to Superintendent Matt Daniels, Laura Meibers, Dan Stringer, and their team for invaluable guidance.
• Morgan Tutoring: Special thanks to Brittany Morgan, Jessica Bielefeldt, Rachel Dennis, and Shelly Walker for their dedication to supporting students with Individualized Education Programs.
• Regnum Christi Education Team: We appreciate Margaret Matthews, Margaret Richardson, Laura Kelley, and Karen Vetter for their guidance in spiritual formation.
• Legionaries of Christ: A heartfelt thanks to Fr. Thomas Flynn, Fr. Dean Stasell, Fr. Andrew Gronotte, Fr. Matthew Summe, Fr. Jacob DuMont, Fr. Jesús Salinas, Fr. Vinh Pham, and the missionary boys for their spiritual leadership.
• CANA Family Institute: We are blessed by the programs led by Elizabeth Conner, which strengthen families and foster growth.

Local Heroes: Ensuring Our Safety

Finally, we extend our gratitude to the Mason City Police, Fire, and EMS teams for their dedication to keeping our campus safe and secure. Their commitment ensures peace of mind for our students, parents, and staff.

Embracing the Spirit of Thanksgiving and Season of Gratitude

This season of gratitude reminds us to reflect on the many hands and hearts that contribute to the Royalmont Academy community. From our teachers and staff to parents, partners, and supporters, every contribution strengthens the fabric of our school.

From all of us at Royalmont Academy, we wish you and your families a blessed and joyous Thanksgiving.

In Christ,

Josh Ater and
Head of School