Photos by James A. McBride
Helen Persing, founding principal of John Paul II Regional School, Stratford, was recognized as the Camden Diocese’s Principal of the Year during Mass Dec. 6.
Mary P. Boyle, superintendent of schools, and Sister Rose DiFluri, assistant superintendent, were present and gave Persing a portrait of “Jesus the Healer” by local artist Brother Michael O’Neill McGrath, an Oblate of St. Francis de Sales.
Persing has been at JPII since 2008 when the school was formed from the merger of St Lawrence School, Lindenwold; Our Lady of Grace, Somerdale; and St. Luke, Stratford. Persing had previously been principal at Queen of Heaven School, Cherry Hill.
She worked in the banking industry in Pennsylvania and New Jersey before becoming a teacher in the Diocese of Trenton where she was recognized as Outstanding Catholic Educator by the diocese in 2004.
Persing serves as secretary for the Elementary School Principals Association. Steve Hogan, a fellow principal, describes her as an educator of the highest caliber, one who draws on immense knowledge to create 21st century learning environments to meet the needs of all learners.
Christine Willard, advancement director at JP II, said, “Five years ago, three Catholic schools merged, we would not have had success without Helen Persing’s dedication, collaboration, commitment and hard work.”