Great teachers empathize with kids, respect them, and believe that each one has something special that can be built upon. –Ann Lieberman

As the Thieme family finishes up nearly two decades of Catholic grade school education in the next month, I find myself overflowing with gratitude for so many of the folks that have made a difference for my boys during their time at SLDM. One of those absolutely special people is a junior high science teacher named Todd Oneacre. Todd arrived at SLDM just in time to have the oldest of my sons for 8th grade science. Nick’s class was his very first at St. Louis de Montfort.

I recall very clearly wondering how things were going to work out for Todd as he began his teaching career at SLDM. Although my memory isn’t always reliable, I am fairly certain Todd came from a career in geology and then decided to transition into teaching. A huge advantage Todd had in his corner though is the fact that he is a loving dad with a beautiful family. They are pictured above. Parents who transition from to teaching do have a leg up, in my opinion! It helps to know how to relate to kids after all.

What I have learned over many years is that Todd is not only a gifted teacher, but he is kind and well-loved by his students. Because he is very funny and never condescending, his genuine care and concern for them rings true. The kids respect Mr. Oneacre. His classroom is always filled with hands-on experiments and out-of-the-box thinking.

As an 8th grade homeroom teacher, Todd is tasked with helping organize the annual trip to Washington D.C. each fall. He does a phenomenal job communicating with both students and parent chaperones and still making sure everyone is safe, and the experience is rewarding.

What makes Todd truly special is that he connects and he cares. Several times over the years he has asked me about how my older boys are doing. He reached out when Drew graduated last year to have me share with D how proud he was of Drew’s high school academic achievements. He’s stopped me at school mass to share with me about something terrific he noticed about Zach. These moments of intentionality he shares with many families are incredibly meaningful.

So, Todd Oneacre, in case no one has told you today, YOU ARE A GREAT TEACHER! The Thieme family is very grateful for you and we appreciate all the times yours has been the face of Christ to us!! Thank you for all you do each day for your students.