To accommodate changing instructional needs, Bishop Noll Institute moved into a new direction when replacing its dean of students.
Seeking the guidance of a current teacher to make sure administration tasks were done with student needs in minds, Jessica Omelanczuk, who previously taught Spanish at the school, now also serves as the assistant principal.
Noll principal Lorenza Jara Pastrick said the role of principal has changed over the years and this new position better suits the instructional aspects of Bishop Noll’s administration.
Together, the two put together ISTEP and ECA remediation to ensure students pass their tests in December, Omelanczuk said. “We both wanted to focus on academics and make sure the students receive the help they need.”
A Marian Catholic High School alumna, Omelanczuk has a master’s degree in teaching and is working toward her administrator’s license through Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Ind. She took three classes over the summer and is working on her internship and commuting to the college once a month.
“I have really enjoyed my internship so far because I have been able to network with many different educators and learn from their experiences. My professors at ISU have been amazing as well and very willing to help with any problem or question I may have.”
She said her friends and family members encouraged her to continue pursuing administration because they thought it would be a good fit for her.
In addition to her new job, Omelanczuk also loves continuing to teach Dual Credit Spanish 3 and 4 classes.
“My students are great and that really makes both classes extremely enjoyable. I teach first and second hour every day and I love starting my day with my classes because I know what to expect and have my lessons prepared and once my classes are over I really do not know what the rest of the day will bring.”
She said that her seven years of classroom experience has helped her juggle both roles. “The administration side is completely new and I am learning every day. Mrs. Pastrick and all of the teachers and staff have been an excellent support system and I look forward to a great rest of the year.”