By Eileen Connelly, OSU

ARCHDIOCESE — Educating, guiding, motivating and inspiring. All are what Jim Vassallo has strived to do daily in his classroom for the past 40 years as he has shaped the hearts, minds and even the very futures of his young charges at St. Martin of Tours School in Cheviot. Vassallo’s four decades as a Catholic educator were recognized during all-school Mass at the parish on Jan. 31.

CT/E.L. HUBBARD

Cali Hollstegge, 5, stands between Mykayla Cassidy, 13, right, and Kaitlynn Brown, 13, during the all-school Mass at St. Martin of Tours Jan. 31.

"I just love the life and energy of students this age," he said. "As a teacher, I draw on that energy myself."

His years as an educator have brought many rewards, especially, said Vassallo, the opportunity to "help and guide the students and watch them grow and change."

Many of his former students have stayed in contact with Vassallo, returning to visit and express their gratitude for his wisdom and guidance. A number were also on hand for the recent Mass, including one student from 30 years ago who went on to become an emergency room physician. "He told me our science classes were the stimulus for his studies," Vassallo said.

As a teacher who firmly believes in challenging his students and has high expectations of them, he said it is rewarding to learn of their successes in life. "They may have complained at the time they were students here, but that’s when I know I’m doing my job," Vassallo said. "Looking back on my own experience as a student, I learned the most from the teachers who were most demanding. When my former students come back and say ‘thank you,’ I feel like I’ve done something right."

What has kept Vassallo at St. Martin of Tours for 40 years and counting? The people, he said. "It’s the families, the people I’ve worked with and the kids, of course. Everyone is so supportive here, so personable and friendly. It’s just a great place to be."

Vassallo also credited his wife of nearly 40 years, Vickie, with encouraging his educational ministry, especially during the time he worked two jobs to supplement his teacher’s salary and support their family. "She’s the main reason I’ve been teaching so long," he said. "She always been very supportive, knowing this is what I really wanted to be doing."

Catholic Schools Week was an opportune time to honor Vassallo’s faith and dedication to his students. He was called forward at the end of the school Mass to be recognized by Father Terence Hamilton, pastor, and Kathryn Lawrence, principal. A representative from the office of Cheviot Mayor James Sunderhaus was also on hand with a proclamation declaring Jan. 31 as "Jim Vassallo Day." A reception followed the Mass, along with a special blessing bestowed on Vassallo by the entire school community before dismissal.

Lawrence described Vassallo as "a wonderful teacher who is fair, committed, concerned and a true role model for the students. That’s how the kids see him. He strives to make them understand that if they study hard, they can accomplish anything. They just need to be wiling to put the time into it."

Embarrassed by all the fuss, Vassallo said, "I’m very grateful to the entire parish for the recognition but don’t feel I deserve all the attention. I guess 40 years is something of a milestone, but I’ve just been doing the job that I love."