School Staff – Lisa Ortner

Meet Lisa Ortner — K-5 Religion Teacher

Why I love St. John School?

Love for Catholic Education.  “Non ad scholam, sed ad vitam discimus.”  That is Latin for “We do not learn for school, but for life.”  That is my mission in my profession.  I really do not even call it a profession, I believe that Catholic education teaching is my vocation.  Having had experience teaching in both private and public education, I much prefer teaching in a Catholic school.  Being allowed to teach and model the Catholic morals and virtues is critical for me.  When students leave St. John’s hopefully they are prepared to go anywhere to continue the mission of Jesus.  God calls us to be disciples, and I know I am able to do this at St. John Nepomucene Catholic School.  The family atmosphere is also a huge draw for me to continue my vocation. 

My favorite part of teaching?

Love for the Sacraments.  Teaching the sacraments fulfills my need of sharing the Catholic Faith to young and impressionable lives.  With that in my heart, I am able to find the goodness, beauty and the truth in our lives, as well as assist my students learn to find those attributes in their lives as well. 

What I like to do outside of school?

When not in school, I love spending time with my family.  My husband Lawrence and I have three teen-age daughters: Gretchen, Kathryn and Shannon.  I enjoy reading, volunteering in my school and home parish of Holy Cross in Kaukauna.  If I am able to get some scrapbooking done, that is another enjoyment. 

My education

I attended the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, and received my degree in Early Childhood Education. I also have a certification to provide Special Educational services to students. 

My professional training

I have had the benefit to teach all the grades from preschool through second grade.  I taught in Nashville, Tennessee, Baltimore Maryland, Keshena WI, Kaukauna WI and now Little Chute.