Answering the Call: A Talent Spotlight on Jessica Melchert

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.

Interim

Announcing Interim Principal at St. Bernard Catholic School

We are excited to announce Mrs. Jessica Wessel as the Interim Principal of GRACE St. Bernard Catholic School for the 2026-27 academic year, effective August 19, 2026.

Mrs. Wessel brings extensive experience in student support, behavioral leadership, school safety, and strong academics having served as a PreK–12 school counselor and special education teacher. She most recently served as an elementary school counselor in a regional public school district. She holds a B.S. in Special Education (UW-Whitewater), an M.S. in School & Mental Health Counseling (Oklahoma State), and a Principal Certification from Concordia University.

To ensure seamless operations and continuity, the GRACE leadership team at the Riverside Office will work closely alongside Mrs. Wessel along with our Assistant Principal, staff, and St. Bernard Parish team. The permanent principal position for the 2027–28 school year will be posted in late fall or early winter.

“I am inspired by the dedication to faith and excellence at St. Bernard School and am passionate about fostering a safe, loving and Christ-centered environment where every child is empowered to reach their full potential.” — Mrs. Jessica Wessel

Please join us in warmly welcoming Mrs. Wessel to the St. Bernard community!


Nos complace anunciar a la Sra. Jessica Wessel como Directora Interina de la Escuela Católica San Bernardo de GRACE para el año académico 2026-27, a partir del 19 de agosto de 2026.

La Sra. Wessel aporta una amplia experiencia en apoyo estudiantil, liderazgo conductual, seguridad escolar y excelencia académica, habiéndose desempeñado como consejera escolar de PreK–12 y maestra de educación especial. Recientemente se desempeñó como consejera de escuela primaria en un distrito escolar público regional. Cuenta con una Licenciatura en Educación Especial (UW-Whitewater), una Maestría en Consejería Escolar y de Salud Mental (Oklahoma State) y una Certificación de Director Escolar de la Universidad Concordia.

Para garantizar operaciones continuas y sin interrupciones, el equipo de liderazgo de GRACE en la oficina de Riverside trabajará en estrecha colaboración con la Sra. Wessel, junto con nuestro Subdirector, el personal y el equipo de la Parroquia de San Bernardo. El puesto permanente de director para el año escolar 2027–28 se publicará a finales del otoño o principios del invierno.

“Me inspira la dedicación a la fe y la excelencia en la Escuela San Bernardo, y me apasiona fomentar un ambiente seguro, amoroso y centrado en Cristo donde cada niño esté empoderado para alcanzar su máximo potencial”. — Sra. Jessica Wessel

¡Acompáñenos a darle una cálida bienvenida a la Sra. Wessel a la comunidad de San Bernardo!


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.

Blog

GRACE Announces Dr. Rebecca Seehawer as Director of Student Services

Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) is pleased to announce that Dr. Rebecca Seehawer will be joining our leadership team as the GRACE Director of Student Services, effective August 2026. Bringing a heart for service and nearly twenty years of expertise in human services and education, Dr. Seehawer comes to GRACE as a dedicated advocate who believes that with the right support and deep respect, every student can find their path to success.

Her journey is rooted right here in the Green Bay community. Before joining the GRACE family, she served as a School Counselor for Green Bay Area Public Schools and a Social Worker for Brown County Human Services. Dr. Seehawer also shares her expertise as an Adjunct Instructor of Psychology at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC). This unique background allows her to bridge the gap between academic achievement and emotional well-being, ensuring our students are supported in every facet of their development.

Portrait

Dr. Seehawer’s professional credentials are as impressive as her experience. She recently completed her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, adding to her Master’s in School Counseling from Lakeland College and her Bachelor’s in Human Services Leadership from UW-Oshkosh. With specialized training in Trauma-Informed Care, Restorative Practices, and Crisis Intervention, she is expertly prepared to lead our student services department with both skill and compassion.

Guided by a strong faith foundation, Dr. Seehawer views her work as a true calling. She is particularly energized by the opportunity to support our teachers in understanding student perspectives, so that both staff and students can thrive together. She finds her greatest joy in celebrating student milestones, whether it is a small victory in the classroom or a major academic achievement.

We are so fortunate to have Dr. Seehawer’s leadership and vision as we prepare for the 2026-2027 school year. Please join us in giving her a very warm welcome to the GRACE community!


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.

Blog Thumbnail

Building for the Future: Summer Updates Across Our GRACE Schools

Our GRACE Schools underwent many improvements over the summer break!

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School: Gifts Keep on Giving

At Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, the gifts of improvements that were generously donated and installed last summer have added greatly to the comfort and quality of the facility this past 2025-26 school year. 

With new full-expansion windows in all of the classrooms, there was a significant difference both aesthetically and efficiency-wise as well.

Mrs. Sue LaLuzerne, Administrative Assistant, reports, “It’s given the school a modern look on the outside, certainly, and a much brighter feel on the inside.”

She can also attest to the appreciation for and success of the new central air conditioning system. “That was a huge relief when we had such a warm fall. Also, we had close to 700 people in the gym for our spring musical in May, and the cool air when we have bigger functions is wonderful.”

This summer, there will not be as dramatic a change for OLOL School, with some classrooms getting a furniture refresh, along with the normal cleaning maintenance throughout the campus, all in preparation for a new 2026-27 school year.

Holy Family Catholic School: School Improves Storage Situation

When Holy Family Catholic School’s middle level students return for the 2026-27 school year, they will be in for a big surprise!

Dr. Stephanie Shedrow, Executive Director of Learning, explains, “Holy Family is getting student lockers! We are excited to have them installed this summer and offer them to our middle school students in the fall.”

Dr. Shedrow and Dr. Jamie Tyrrell, 2025-2026 Interim Principal, have worked diligently to coordinate this project this past school year. It is anticipated that this will be a welcome addition.

Mrs. Laurie Erickson,incoming Principal and former Assistant Principal, reports, “With the approval of Father Quinn, the administrators ordered 75 lockers, which will be installed on the top floor where the majority of our middle school classes are held. The addition of lockers will ensure that personal belongings are organized and stored in a secure, private manner. We are very excited to provide this improvement for our students.”

Now that this storage situation is well in hand, 2026-27 is sure to be a win-win for the students and the school!

St. Thomas More Catholic School: East Side Parishes Align Leadership

In an effort to ensure a vibrant parish life with effective pastoral care for all the faithful, Bishop David Ricken announced the linking of Ss. Peter and Paul and St. Philip the Apostle parishes. On July 1, Father Jose Lopez Vargas became the Pastor of both. Working as the lead with the collaborative help of another priest and a deacon, Father Jose is sharing pastoral responsibilities and services for the two communities.

Father Jose maintains his role as spiritual leader at St. Thomas More Catholic School.

Dr. Jamie Tyrell, Principal of St. Thomas More, states, “St. Thomas More is incredibly fortunate to have Father Jose’s leadership guiding the students, faculty, the staff, and the families, and we look forward to supporting Father Jose as he is able to bless more lives.” 

Principal Tyrell will apprise families and staff of any possible changes, such as Mass times, that may take place as arrangements continue to be made.

Father Jose adds, “Please keep us in prayer [as we move ahead]…God will provide.”

Holy Cross Catholic School: Relocation Brings Brand New Campus for Fall

We are excited to let you know that Holy Cross Catholic School has moved! Holy Cross Parish and GRACE teamed up to transition the school to a new campus location at 3994 Wequiock Road, Green Bay, WI 54311.

Located just a few miles down the road from its current site, the move reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthening Catholic education while positioning Holy Cross Catholic School for continued growth, expanded programming, and long-term vitality. This move offers improved classroom environments, increased flexibility for programming, and space to foster deeper collaboration among students, faculty, and families. While its close proximity ensures continuity for Holy Cross Parish and current school families, it also creates new possibilities for innovation and development for our Preschool to 8th grade school.

This significant undertaking was made possible by the generosity of Holy Cross Parish and an anonymous benefactor. Reflecting on the spiritual mission behind the move, Abbot Gary Neville noted, “Holy Cross school has been a leader in excellent Catholic education since 1868. The relocation to Wequiock Road will allow us to carry on that legacy in an updated and enhanced educational environment.”

“We are guided by our faith and strengthened by our entire community,” states GRACE Holy Cross Catholic School principal, Kari Peterson. “This foundation allows us to move forward with confidence, knowing that Holy Cross Catholic School will remain a nurturing environment where students continue to learn, grow, and thrive for generations to come.”

Holy Cross will open on the first day of school this fall, August 26, 2026. Families will be receiving additional information regarding transition details, open house opportunities and fall start up information.

For continued move updates, please follow GRACE Holy Cross Catholic School on Facebook or call the current school office at (920) 468-0625.


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.

Faith, Fun, and Focus: Navigating the Back-to-School Transition

Bus Clipart

Summer is a wonderful season of fun, relaxation, and invaluable family time. It’s a chance to rest, play, and let our imaginations take flight—and those experiences are incredibly important when it comes to preparing for a new school year!

We want to harness that natural excitement and energy our students bring to the classroom after a summer off. With just a few simple strategies, you can keep that vibrant summer spirit alive while gently preparing your child for the academic journey ahead.

Revive the Reading Routine

It’s incredibly easy to fall out of the habit of daily reading during the busy summer months. However, re-establishing a 20-minute daily reading routine right now is one of the best things you can do for your child’s academic stamina. Did you know that reading just 20 minutes a day adds up to over 1,500 minutes of reading? That gives your child a massive head start for the school year. Sneak those 20 minutes whenever you can—in the car, before bed, or down by the lake—and watch how much easier the transition back to the classroom becomes.

  • Level it up (Comprehension): Ask your child open-ended questions after they read to reinforce their comprehension and critical thinking.
  • Level it up (Writing): Challenge your child to write a “sequel” to their favorite book. It’s a fantastic, low-pressure way to spark creative writing and imagination before school starts!

Spot the Everyday Math

The “summer math slide” can be one of the most notable academic setbacks when students return to the classroom. You can fight that slide simply by drawing attention to the math all around us on a daily basis! Heading to the pool? Read the depth signs and identify the measurement labels. Going to camp? Have your child calculate the start and end times to figure out the elapsed time in between. Cooking dinner? Discuss fractions and liquid measurements using cups, quarts, and tablespoons.

The opportunities are endless, and these quick everyday discussions make a massive impact on your child’s mathematical readiness for the fall.

  • Level it up (Computation): On a road trip? Have your child look at license plates and either call out the numbers, add them together, or multiply them based on their grade level.
  • Level it up (Financial Literacy): At the grocery store or a local ice cream shop? Have your child estimate the total cost of a few items, determine if you have enough cash, or calculate the change you should receive.

Keep the Faith in Motion

Our spiritual journeys don’t pause when the school year ends. In fact, summer is a beautiful season to step back and marvel at everything God has created and gifted to us. Look for spontaneous moments to pause and thank God for your family’s favorite memories—whether hiking in the woods, playing with friends, or boating on the lake. You can also use these weeks to experience the liturgy in new ways. Heading “up north”? Locate a local parish within our Wisconsin dioceses to attend Mass. Busy weekend ahead? Find a peaceful weeknight Mass to switch things up. Even if you are short on time, taking advantage of a weekday confession, a brief prayer session, or Eucharistic Adoration at a nearby parish is a powerful way to recharge your family’s spiritual battery.

  • Level it up (The Prayer Journal): Encourage your child to create a simple summer prayer journal. Use it as a quiet space to draw or write down God’s weekly blessings, cultivating a heart of gratitude before the school year begins.
  • Level it up (Scripture Connections): Read the upcoming Sunday Gospel together as a family before heading to Mass. Ask your child: “What is Jesus teaching us in this story, and how can we practice that virtue with our new classmates and teachers this year?”

Summer is a sacred time to connect with family, learn through play, and experience God in new and vibrant ways. By intentionally weaving these simple reading, math, and faith moments into your final weeks of summer, you are partnering with us to ensure your child steps into the classroom with confidence.

We wish you a safe, joyful, and faith-filled summer. We cannot wait to welcome your children back to school!


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.

President for a Day: An Interview with Three Students from St. John Paul II Classical School

This year, the GRACE Riverside office welcomed some very special guest leadership. Marie (6th grade), Sam (5th grade), and Rose (Kindergarten) from St. John Paul II Classical School (SJPII) each spent a day serving as President or Vice President. They traded their typical school supplies for a seat at the leadership table, a tour of the facilities, and a look at how our school system operates. We sat down with them to talk about their school, their faith, and being the boss for a day.

Q: What do you love most about your school and a typical school day?

Marie: It is such a welcoming community where you feel included immediately. My favorite parts of the day are lunch, recess, and the passing periods, because there is such a great sense of togetherness and I love to laugh with my friends.

Sam: I really enjoy how we team up with other schools, like running cross country with GRACE Holy Family. I also like humanities because we play a tag game based on the books we are reading; it’s great to have fun while we learn. No matter where you go here, people are ready to help you back up if you get knocked down.

Rose: I like the learning stations and playing with my friends! My best friend is Callie and we have so much fun at recess. It is a very good place to learn and I really like going to Gym class.

Q: Can you tell us about a teacher or a subject that has made an impact on you?

Marie: I really like History, especially learning about the Egyptians. My second grade teacher, Ms. Megan, also made a big impact because she is so faithful and nice; you feel like you can talk to her about anything.

Sam: Academically, I have improved a lot in spelling and math. I have specifically enjoyed exploring long division this year.

Rose: Ms. Miller is fun and Ms. Ellis is really nice. Mrs. T is a very nice gym teacher, too.

Q: How has your school helped you grow in your faith?

Marie: The teachers build a foundation in elementary school and help you keep caring about it in middle school. When the whole school prays at Mass, I feel like we are all connected by God.

Sam: I like singing at Mass and listening to the word. We also pray the Rosary and go to Adoration, which helps me realize how to connect closer to Jesus.

Rose: In the Atrium, we learned about the “pearl of great price,” which means giving your whole heart to God. I also like to listen to the Word of God during Mass.

Q: What would you say to a student who is thinking about joining your school?

Marie: I would tell them it is a very welcoming community with amazing teachers and great learning.

Sam: I would tell them that it is fun to explore everything here. There is always someone ready to help you out.

Rose: It is a good place to make friends!

Q: What was the best part of being the “President for a Day” at the Riverside Office?

Marie: I liked meeting the team at the office and getting to see the GRACE Father of Allouez rooms.

Sam: It was great to see how the office works and meet the people who help run our schools.

Rose: I got a hat and a pin and a cool highlighter! It was fun to see the big GRACE Father of Allouez rooms when we visited that school

Q: Now that summer is here, what are you most excited to do?

Marie: I am looking forward to volleyball, the beach, and jumping on the trampoline with my five siblings.

Sam: I will be training for cross country and finding new ways to have fun with my friends before school starts again.

Rose: I love playing soccer. I am playing with the eight-year-olds now because I am getting really good!

Hearing our students describe their schools as welcoming communities where they grow closer to Jesus sets a wonderful tone for the future of GRACE.

As GRACE President Desotell reflected: “The time I spent with these students was a powerful reinforcement of the promise and potential within our schools. Their energy, curiosity, enthusiasm, and faith-filled hearts remind us exactly why Catholic education is so vital. It was an honor to share the leadership table with Marie, Sam, and Rose, and to see firsthand how our mission is truly coming alive in our students.”

Watching these young leaders step into their roles with such confidence gives us great excitement for what lies ahead.


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.

Summer Newsletter

Summer 2026 Newsletter Now Available

Catch up on the latest news within GRACE in the Summer 2026 Newsletter! Read an interview with the student who was a president for a day at SJPII, learn all about the new leadership within the GRACE System, get back-to-school tips, catch up on all the ongoing facilities projects, and more!

Read now!


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.

New Principal

Announcing Principal for GRACE Holy Family Catholic School

We are excited to share that Mrs. Laurie Erickson has been named the new Principal of GRACE Holy Family Catholic School for the 2026-27 academic year.

Many of you know Mrs. Erickson since she joined Holy Family School as the Assistant Principal this past October. More recently, she also serves weekly at GRACE Notre Dame of De Pere as a part-time Assistant Principal.

Over the past year with GRACE Schools, she has proven herself to be a dedicated, faith-filled leader who truly understands the heart of our system and our schools. By stepping into the Principal role starting July 1, 2026, she provides our students and staff with the steady, familiar leadership needed to maintain momentum.

Mrs. Erickson brings a wealth of knowledge to this position with over 30 years of experience in education. Her background is diverse, spanning classroom teaching, special education, and high-level administration in both Wisconsin and New Mexico. Before coming to Holy Family, she served as an Educational Administrator and Program Specialist for the New Mexico Public Education Department. In that role, she led statewide initiatives, provided leadership training, and supported special education programs. Her heart has always been in the classroom, as she has extensive experience teaching 7th- and 8th-grade students and has spent years developing specialized programs to help students of all grade levels and learning styles succeed.

Beyond her resume, Mrs. Erickson is deeply committed to our mission of nurturing the whole child in mind, body, and spirit. She holds a Master of Arts in Education from Northern Michigan University and is a licensed School Administrator. This mix of high-level expertise and decades of hands-on teaching experience makes her uniquely qualified to lead our school. Dr. Stephanie Shedrow, GRACE Executive Director of Learning, noted that Mrs. Erickson’s transition is a natural fit because of her current work and relationships within the GRACE community.

Reflecting on her new role, Mrs. Erickson shared that she is truly honored to lead the wonderful staff and students at Holy Family. She noted that after spending the last several months getting to know the families and students, she is more inspired than ever to help them seek their full potential within a community rich in tradition and faith.

Please join us in warmly congratulating Mrs. Laurie Erickson on her new position as she continues her journey with the GRACE family. We look forward to seeing you at upcoming school events, where there will be plenty of opportunities to connect with Mrs. Erickson as she begins this exciting new chapter. Her first day as the new school principal is today, July 1, 2026.

For more information about Holy Family, visit their website.


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.

OLOL Principal

Announcing Principal for GRACE Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School

We are pleased to announce that Jessica A. Nejedlo has been named the new Principal of GRACE Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School in De Pere, effective for the 2026-2027 school year. Having served as the school’s Supportive Consultant since 2023, Mrs. Nejedlo brings a wealth of institutional knowledge to ensure a seamless transition for students, staff, and families.

Mrs. Nejedlo brings more than 20 years of dedicated experience in elementary education and student advocacy to this leadership role. Her professional background is exceptionally broad, encompassing roles as a Reading Interventionist, Kindergarten teacher, and International Baccalaureate (IB) Curriculum Coordinator. In her capacity as a coordinator, she managed school-wide curriculum design and served as a primary liaison between faculty and educational leadership. This depth of experience collaborating with administrators and supporting diverse learners across all grade levels has equipped her with the skills necessary to excel in the multifaceted role of a principal. 

Throughout her career, Mrs. Nejedlo has maintained a steadfast focus on academic excellence and fostering students’ growth in the Catholic faith. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and a Reading Teacher Certification from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. She has also completed advanced leadership coursework in Educational Administration. 

Beyond her professional achievements, Mrs. Nejedlo is a devoted member of the parish community. She serves on the Security Task Force and volunteers with local initiatives, including Shop with a Cop and Families of Children with Cancer. We are confident that her leadership, grounded in faith and deep community roots, will guide Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School towards continued growth and success.

Please join the GRACE system in warmly welcoming Mrs. Jessica Nejedlo to her new leadership role at GRACE, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School! She will begin serving in this role on July 1, 2026. 

For more information about Our Lady of Lourdes, visit their website.


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.

Holy Cross Catholic School Relocation to New Campus

Holy Cross Catholic School will be relocating to a new campus! The move reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthening Catholic education while positioning Holy Cross for continued growth, expanded programming, and long-term vitality. Learn more by reading the full press release here.

Families will be receiving additional information regarding transition details, open house opportunities, and fall start up information. For continued move updates, please follow Holy Cross on Facebook or call the current school office at (920) 468-0625.

For more information about Holy Cross, visit their website.


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.