Sometimes, a calling unfolds in unexpected ways. For Mrs. Jessica Melchert, middle school religion teacher at GRACE Father Allouez Catholic School (FACS), the path to the classroom began in athletics and parish faith formation. Armed with a background in Athletic Training and Strength & Conditioning, she first worked with young athletes before coordinating religious education at St. Sebastian Parish in Seymour.
Then came an unexpected invitation from the former FACS principal to fill in part-time “just for a few months.” Nearly 30 months later, Mrs. Melchert is preparing for her third full year at FACS. “I feel that teaching in a Catholic school was a direct vocational calling from God,” Jessica shared, “to help guide students in how we live out Christian values every day.”
As an educator, Catholic school graduate, and parent of three FACS students, she considers teaching a blessing and a responsibility to evangelize. She credits much of her inspiration to her mother, a teacher who modeled faith and a love for sharing Jesus.
Mrs. Melchert’s story reminds us that Catholic education is a vocation rooted in forming disciples for life. As a GRACE community, sustaining and valuing those who answer this call is how we ensure Catholic education thrives for generations to come.
The Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System consists of nine schools. We focus on the development of each student grounded in our foundation of Catholic faith for grades PK3-12.
Our mission continues to evolve in these unique times as we embrace new technologies, deliver innovative teaching and learning strategies, and hire exceptional faculty and staff dedicated to the vocation of education. Our current GRACE Strategic Plan outlines action steps in the areas of faith, academics, vitality and experience that have assisted us to enjoy enrollment growth over the past five years.
Please know you are always welcome to visit our schools to learn more about our offerings and the culture that makes each of our GRACE schools unique. The rewards of a Catholic education are endless. The gift of a Catholic education prepares your child and will remain with them throughout their life. Learn more about us here.
