Staff Bios

Mrs. Frances Peterson – Principal

Mrs. Peterson is a dedicated educator with a BA in Elementary Education (PreK-4) and Special Education (K-8) from Immaculata University. In Fall 2024 she will graduate Immaculata with a Master Degree in Educational Leadership. Delco born and bred, Mrs. Peterson attended St. Laurence School and graduated from Bonner-Prendie High School. Her schooling instilled in her a deep appreciation for Catholic education where “Catholic Identity” pervades the school
day and informs a corporate culture. Her husband, too, is a Catholic school teacher, further solidifying her connection to Catholic educational values. Mrs. Peterson served as lead kindergarten teacher at St. Norbert School, Paoli where she mentored the teaching team and emphasized a multi-sensory approach to learning. She is passionate about creating supportive environments that facilitate student
growth and development. Outside of work, Mrs. Peterson enjoys outdoor
activities, reading, and spending time in Ocean City, NJ.

Dr. Patty Schwab - Vice Principal
Throughout her career, Dr. Schwab has taught students of all ages and levels. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary and Special Education from Gwynedd-Mercy College, a Master's in Training and Development from St. Joseph's University, and a Doctorate in School Leadership. Dr. Schwab also has her supervisor, principal, and superintendent certifications. Dr. Schwab has taught students in grades K-12, students with special needs, and was the principal of William G. Rohrer Middle School from 2015 to 2022 (having served as assistant
principal from 2005-2015). Throughout the 2022-23 and 2023-24 school years, Dr. Schwab served SHS middle school students and teachers as a “Wednesday Volunteer.” Both years she facilitated multi-session student in-service on Study Skills.

Mrs. Debbie Vasek - Administrative Assistant
 Debbie Vasek is our school's Administrative Assistant.  This is Debbie's fourth year at Sacred Heart School.  Most of Debbie's career was spent working in a law office in Bryn Mawr.  Debbie grew up in Havertown and attended St. Denis and Archbishop Carroll High School.  Debbie and her husband Bob raised three children in the Garnet Valley School District where they presently reside with their two dogs.  Debbie very much enjoys working with the students and their families.

Mrs. Rachel Smith – Advancement Director & Office Assistant
 Rachel Smith is the mother of twin boys, Justin & Brandon, who are in second grade this year! She just welcomed a baby girl, Maddie into the world this past September! Rachel has been involved with Sacred Heart for over six years, starting with the lunch program and then transitioning into the office in 2021, assisting Debbie Vasek.  Now Rachel serves as the Advancement Director. During 2022-23 the website validates that SHS is blessed to have her talent, vision, energy, and leadership.  Rachel promotes our incredible school and community. If you ever have any ideas on ways to spread the word about this wonderful school, please feel free to share them with her.

Mrs. Mary Rose Brennan - PreK-3 Teacher
Sacred Heart School is opening its first PreK-3 class!  Mary Rose Brennan will be our SHS pioneer! Mrs. Brennan brings to us 30 years of early childhood hands-on, classroom experience and a degree in Early Childhood education. Her PreK philosophy of education includes “creating an atmosphere that encourages children to explore, manipulate, make discoveries, and learn on their own, as well as from their peers.”  All lessons include activities planned on helping “the littles” to grow emotionally, socially, physically, and cognitively – within an environment where children feel safe, secure, and loved.  That is a recipe for success and a baseline for SHS standards.

Mrs. Rutchel Smith - PreK-3 Teaching Assistant
(Not to be confused with Rachel Smith, Secretary)
Parishioner Rutchel Smith brings 17 years of pre-school experience to Sacred Heart School.  Rutchel was awarded a degree and license from New Lucena College in her home-country, the Phillipines. Since 2003 she served as supervisor and “Lead Teacher” at Child Steps Pre-School (on the site of the former Annunciation School, Havertown).  Beyond professional preparation and vast experience, Rutchel brings to Sacred Heart School: strong Catholic faith and values, dedication, and a willingness to serve others, especially God’s “little ones.” Her previous director reported that Rutchel is “devoted, hardworking, professional, loving, creative, and a caring teacher who has great knowledge in the field … and has taught her students with expertise, kindness and patience.”  

Ms. Kaitlyn Martin - PreK-4A Teacher
Miss Martin was born and raised in Havertown. She was a two-sport athlete at both Bonner-Prendie and Cabrini University where she received her degree in Elementary Education and Special Education. She is currently pursuing her masters degree in leadership at Cabrini University. Kaitlyn stayed close to her roots!  She did her student teaching at Cardinal Foley and a year of internship at St. Matthew Early Childhood Center.  In her spare time, Miss Martin likes to spend time with her family and is the assistant softball coach at Prendie.  SHS has the privilege of welcoming Miss Martin to her first full-time teaching position.  Mrs. Marianne McGoldrick will serve as mentor. Isn’t Kaitlyn lucky and aren’t we blessed!

Mrs. Eileen Nangle - PreK-4A Teaching Assistant
Eileen Walsh-Nangle is another Havertown Woman to join our ranks! Much of her adult life has focused on providing care, compassion, and expressions of support in varied venues including: Optimist International, youth aide at the Haverford Township police station, youth mediation, helping the homeless (IHN Inner Hospitality Network); Hope Café – providing a restaurant experience for homeless families; front desk tasks at the Skatium; years of sales and service at St. Jude Shop; and a 25-year experience of weekend companioning to special-needs children.  Need finds Eileen --- and Eileen responds whole-heartedly!  Four years of experience in teaching Pre-school children and a CDA (Child Development Associate) credential from Ashworth College led Eileen to Sacred Heart School.  She brings to us a servant-heart, boundless energy, gentleness, imagination, and social-emotional learning skills.

Mrs. Marianne McGoldrick - PreK-4B Teacher
Marianne was born in the Reading area, but has lived most of her life in Havertown. She is a member of St. Denis parish. Marianne taught First grade at Annunciation BVM School for 9 years and then spent 9 years at home with her 2 children. She came to Sacred Heart in 2007 and hasn’t looked back since. She loves watching the children grow and develop in a Catholic environment. She teaches them that God loves them very, very much! Marianne graduated from Penn State University with a BS in Special Education. She continues to mentor new teachers and loves to see that Sacred Heart continues to grow! When she is not
 in school she loves to spend time with her grown children and husband.

Mrs. Cindi Crimi - PreK-4B Teaching Assistant
Cindy has been a part of Sacred Heart Parish for over 30 years. She was born and raised in South Philadelphia and has a MA in Speech and Language Pathology from Temple University. She is the proud mother of two Sacred Heart School graduates and is the loving grandmother of three current Sacred Heart School students. She has been the teacher assistant in Pre-K 4 since 2007 and considers it a privilege to provide a loving and caring classroom environment in which the children can flourish and learn about how much God loves them. Cindy enjoys baking, spending time with her family and being a life-long Eagles fan.

Mrs. Tracy Nini - Kindergarten -A Teacher
Tracy was born and raised in Havertown and attended Sacred Heart School.  Currently she lives in the parish with her husband and two children: Alexis 14 and Chase 12.  She enjoys being with family and friends, going to the beach, and being outside.  2023-24 will be Tracy’s 24th year of teaching and her second year at SHS. Prior ministry focused on PreK and First Grade.  She noted “It is wonderful to watch the students learn and grow throughout the year.  I love knowing that I am a part of their education and formation.  I look forward to the adventure, working with wonderful group of people, and meeting all in the Sacred Heart Community.”

Ms. Alexandria Cornish - Kindergarten-B Teacher
Ms. Alexandria Cornish is very excited to start her first year of teaching at Sacred Heart School. She graduated from West Chester University with a B.S. in Psychology. While trying to earn her degree, Alex was also busy working in daycares, pre-schools, private nannying and the food industry. She has a strong work ethic and is very eager to finally get the opportunity to start teaching full-time. Growing up, she has always wanted to be a teacher. Now, she is finally working her dream job! In her spare time, she loves reading books, going to the gym, and hanging out with family and friends.

Mrs. Deirdre Simpson - Kindergarten Teaching Assistant
Deirdre is a parishioner of Sacred Heart since 2006. She was born and raised in Ireland, educated by the Presentation Sisters, and studied business at Scoil Ruain.  She joined the staff at Sacred Heart in 2012 as a Kindergarten assistant. She is a mother of three children who all graduated from Sacred Heart. Deirdre had a varied career path, which took her down many roads, including but not limited to owning her own business and as an office manager in Philadelphia during this journey. However, her most rewarding career experience is working with children and enjoys every minute at Sacred Heart. Getting to know so many wonderful children and their families is her passion.

Ms. Melissa Hefferan - Grade 1
Miss Hefferan is our first grade teacher! She was born and raised in Havertown. This is her fourth year teaching at Sacred Heart School. Miss Hefferan also serves as the Student Council Moderator. Miss Hefferan graduated from Cabrini University in 2020 where she majored in Elementary Education and Special Education. She loves teaching first grade and always wanted to be a teacher growing up. She feels blessed to be living out her dream. In her spare time she enjoys reading, shopping, spending time with family and friends and coaching the cheerleading team at Cabrini University. 

Mrs. Kate Congleton - Grade 2
Kate is not new to SHS though she was new to Grade Two in the 2022-23 school year.  This will be her sixth year at SHS and her 14th year teaching. Previously Kate taught Kindergarten. She is a graduate of Drexel University where she majored in Elementary Education. Currently she holds certification in Elementary Education in grades Pre-K-6. Kate is a member of St. Bernadette's Parish in Drexel Hill, married with two children, Kendall age 12 and Ryan age 8. Both children attend St. Bernadette's School. Last year Kate moved to 2nd grade to direct student growth in faith through the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion, and to lead them to be active members in both their school community and parish. Kate achieved her goals. Our children were WELL-prepared for the Sacraments.

Ms. Madison McNulty - Grade 3
Ms. McNulty comes to Sacred Heart with a BA in Early Education from Gwynedd Mercy University and five years of teaching experience that included PreK and Grades 1 and 4.  Previous administrators describe Ms. McNulty as a solutions-oriented teacher who delivers data-driven instruction. Madison is recognized as collaborative, professional, and kind — a teacher who demonstrates a welcoming demeanor with students, staff and families. A major “thumbs up” is that her previous principal wrote: “Given the opportunity, I would hire Madison again, as I see her as an asset to the learning community, students, and families.”  As principal, I am happy that Madison chose to give Sacred Heart School the opportunity to benefit from her passion to teach and guide student development.  Ms. McNulty has many great ideas to implement, teaching strategies to promote, and a thirst for watching students succeed.  She can hardly wait to meet her new SHS family and to be a part of this year’s adventure.

Ms. Erin Larkin - Grade 4

Miss Larkin was born and raised in Springfield and is a parishioner of Saint Francis of Assisi. She is a 2019 graduate of West Chester University, where she earned a degree in Early Grades Preparation (PK-4) and Special Education (PK-8). She is entering her sixth-year teaching, which includes previous experience in kindergarten, first grade, third grade and sixth grade. She loves to make learning fun and engaging for her
students. In her free time, she enjoys going to the shore, trying new restaurants, participating in community theater at Saint Francis, and all
things Philly sports, especially the Phillies, Eagles, and Sixers. She was also an Irish dancer growing up and attended regional, national, and even a world competition. She is excited to be joining the SHS community and teaching fourth grade this year!

Ms. Mary Catherine Schoch - Grade 5
Mary Catherine Schoch has been teaching in Catholic schools for fourteen years.  As a pioneer teacher and administrative guide for Regina Luminis Academy (Downingtown/Berwyn), over the course of nine years she wore many hats: kindergarten, Grades 1-4, lower school math specialist, junior-senior thesis advisor, pre-algebra math, and middle school conceptual science.  At St. Athanasius School (Philadelphia) she taught 2nd, 7th and 8th grades. Miss Schoch has a degree in elementary education with a concentration in science from Millersville University.  She grew up in St. Peter Parish in Honeybrook, Pennsylvania, but now resides in Delaware County.  In 2005, she took a pilgrimage to Italy and visited Florence, Assisi, Orvieto, and Rome.  In her spare time, she enjoys mountain biking, cooking, drawing, and playing the piano. Sacred Heart School welcomes this Renaissance Woman of faith.

Ms. Rachel Rubino - Middle School, Grade 6 & & Homeroom and Teacher of ELA to Grades 6-7-8
Ms. Rubino joins the Sacred Heart School (SHS) community as the ELA teacher for grades 6, 7, and 8. A dedicated educator with a passion for fostering student literacy, she contributes a breadth of teaching experiences and commitment to whole-person formation within her role at SHS. After graduating from Lafayette College with a B.A. in English and French, Ms. Rubino began her teaching career in New York City at a school specialized for students with language-based
learning disabilities. She spent five years honing her skills in multisensory and direct instruction for diverse learners. Her dedication to education led her to pursue graduate studies at The Ohio State University, where she earned a Distinguished University Fellowship and taught Writing, Information and Literacy to first-year students. Throughout her academic and professional journey, Ms. Rubino has cultivated an ongoing interest in writing as an interdisciplinary practice of both learning and expression. She is thrilled for the opportunity to
teach at SHS, where she seeks to embrace the spiritual and academic growth of each student in our faith community.


Ms. Lorraine Howley – Middle School, Grade 8 Homeroom and Teacher of Social Studies and Science
Mrs. Howley assumed the role of Grade 7 Homeroom moderator and teacher in late March 2023. A native of Havertown, she grew up in St. Denis Parish and attended St. Denis School, Archbishop John Carroll for Girls, Delaware County Community College & Neumann University. Mrs. Howley holds a master’s in Teaching and Learning from Kaplan University and an instructional II license with the State of Pennsylvania in Social Studies.  In addition to mothering four children into young adulthood, Mrs. Howley has 19 years of experience teaching in the State College Area School District. Along with teaching 7th grade and 8th grade, she was the student adviser for Student Council and the Entrepreneurship Challenge, member of the Student Assistance Program, PTSO Treasurer, Homebound Instructor, and a member of the IEP team.  Here at Sacred Heart School Lorraine has taken the lead in doing a “deep dive” into the data that is available from the Terra Nova tests.  She will guide our faculty into making significant use of the data to drive instruction and remediation. Also, she dedicated summer hours to begin preparations for our upcoming Middle States accreditation study. 

Mr. Robert Welde - Middle School Honors Math
 “I came back to give back,” is Bob’s motto.  He is “Manoa Grown.” He and his 10 siblings are SHS graduates! One of his three degrees is an MA in Mathematics Education from Columbia University. That degree led to 15 years as a classroom Math instructor. Prior work experience included international finance positions, business education for the Navy, marketing projects, and serving in Botswana, Africa as a Rural Industrial Officer of the US Peace Corps.  There he earned the nickname, “Modise,” which means “Shepherd.”  Bob is proficient in several languages, the most important one being LOVE. This athlete and coach of little league and high school sports will guide our Honors Math students to a future full of hope. I believe that the “Good Shepherd” sent Mr. Welde our way!

Mrs. Erzsi Monsanto - Middle School, Teacher of Religion to Grades
6-7-8
Mrs. Monsanto is a proud mom of two sons- Kristian, 25 and Nickolas, 23. She grew up in Drexel Hill and attended St. Bernadette School. She attended Notre Dame Academy, then Cabrini/Villanova, earning degrees in Mathematics and Elementary Education. Mrs. Monsanto has been teaching in schools throughout the Archdiocese for over 30 years- 20 of those in her home parish, St. John Neumann. She’s been a math teacher, tutor, PSAT/SAT/ACT tutor and runs Math “boot camps “in the summers. She is fluent in Hungarian and French and also does calligraphy as a hobby. Mrs. Monsanto enjoys spending time with her family. She is very excited to begin this next part of her journey at SH Manoa!

Mrs. Amy Giacomucci - Art Teacher
Amy Giacomucci has been a resident of Havertown and a Sacred Heart Parishioner for over 18 years. She and her husband have two sons (18,12) and a daughter (9). Amy loves teaching children of all ages and has
spent almost 2 decades raising and volunteering with children. She loves art and crafting. Amy is extremely excited, honored and grateful for the opportunity to create beautiful masterpieces with the students of
Sacred Heart School.

Mrs. Sue Valenti – Physical Education
Sue was born in Havertown and baptized at Sacred Heart Church before moving to Newtown Square where she attended St. Anastasia's and O'Hara.  Sue has a BS Degree in Kinesiology from West Chester University.  Sue is beginning her 25th year of teaching PE, part-time at SHS and her 12th year. at CJF.  She also taught 10 years at St. John Chrysostom and 2 years. at St. Dots.  Sue resides in Havertown with her husband, 2 sons and a golden retriever named "Rocky."  Sue is a parishioner and a lector at Sacred Heart Church and is currently coaching the girl's high school CYO basketball team as well.  Sue's favorite sport is basketball, but she recently found pickleball as her new hobby.  In her free time, Sue enjoys staying active by exercising, camping/hiking, and going on roads trips.  More importantly she loves spending time with her nieces and nephews, family and friends playing card games, board games, or looking to try something new. "It's not all about winning, it's how you play the game."