Holy Family School

Mrs. Denise Clay

Kindergarten Teacher - KC
Phone: 330-688-6412
Email: Click Here to Email

Educational Background: M.S. in Elementary Education, Nova South Eastern University, B.S. in Elementary and Early Childhood Education, University of South Florida

Favorite Saint: Saint Marie Amandine, Patron Saint of Laughter As a young girl I would sit with my grandmother often as she prayed the rosary daily. During those times she would often tell me to pray to my saint, whom she said was the perfect saint for me. How significant for a young girl to have the influence of a positive, joyful saint in my life. I cherish those memories with my grandmother and the love and laughter we shared throughout her life.

Hobbies: I enjoy time with my family, yoga, working out, watching football (Go Browns & Geoux Saints) and of course shopping.

Favorite Place Traveled to and Why: My favorite vacation place is Florida and Walt Disney World. I grew up in Florida, as they say, “you can take the girl out of the beach, but you can’t take the beach out of the girl.” And we adored our yearly trips taking my son to Walt Disney Word, some incredible memories were made at "The Happiest Place on Earth."

Favorite School Subject and Why: I enjoyed school; one subject does not stand out to me. However, I do remember everything about my Kindergarten classroom. I can literally draw it out on paper including remembering the center areas, who sat at my table and the specific details of each area and mostly how I adored Mrs. Seltzer, my teacher. I recognize it was destined for me to become a kindergarten teacher. Similarly, to my own kindergarten experience it is my desire instill a sense of self-worth, feeling loved and valued while building the framework for lifelong learning.

Describe Your Favorite Memory at Holy Family School: My favorite experiences at Holy Family are when my children read independently for the first time; that sense of euphoria and how their faces light up is absolutely priceless. However, if I had to pick an experience outside my classroom it would be when we celebrated winning the National Blue Ribbon of Excellence in 2012. It was such an exhilarating day to share with the entire Holy Family community.