Faculty & Staff
Mrs. Erin Meunier, Principal
principal@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Meunier comes to us from Northern Virginia where she was born and raised. Starting out as an applied math consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton, she took several years off to raise her three children, currently 12, 13 and 16. When her youngest was in preschool she began as a middle school math teacher in the Diocese of Arlington. She is thrilled to join the Archdiocese of Washington as an administrator. She has a B.S. in Economics and Math, M.S. in Operations Research, and is a couple classes away from finishing her coursework for a Ph.D in Education and Administration all at George Mason University. Two of her children currently attend St. Joseph's. In her free time she loves to shop, watch movies, and spend time with her family.
Mr. James Morris, Vice Principal, Advanced Math
viceprincipal@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Joelle Taylor, Director of Enrollment
director@stjosrcs.org
I am very blessed to serve the St. Joseph's community! I graduated with high honors from DePaul University and received a Bachelor of Arts degree with a dual major in Sociology and Communications. After working in the nonprofit sector, I went on to earn a Master in City Planning degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, MA. After graduating from MIT, I worked several years in corporate community relations and philanthropy before taking on the most challenging and rewarding experience of my life as a work-at-home mom. More recently, I worked as an adjunct instructor at Montgomery College before serving in various administrative positions at St. Joseph's. My husband and I are the proud parents of four daughters, two currently attend St. Joseph's and one is a St. Joseph's graduate.
Ms. Jocelyn Pagan, Office Manager
officemanager@stjosrcs.org
As the proud mother of a St. Joseph's alumni and a former Extended Care Program teacher, I have first-hand experience of how rewarding it is to work in the school environment. I feel like going to work is like going to a second home, where I get to see familiar faces that bring me great joy and do work that is nothing short of rewarding...I strongly believe that serving others requires humility, character and a strong work ethic. These are all qualities that I continuously strive to maintain at a high standard.
Ms. Alejandra Velasquez, Secretary
secretary@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Pamela Kennedy, Resource Teacher
resource@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Kennedy has a Bachelor’s degree in Educational Psychology from the University of our Savior (Universidad del Salvador, Buenos Aires, Argentina) and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education from the George Washington University in Washington DC. She previously worked at Frances Fuchs ECC and was a teacher for the Ivymount Corporation for ten years, at the Ivymount School and the Maddux School.
Mr. Ben Flores, Maintenance Engineer
FACULTY
Ms. Gina Gomes, Music
music@stjosrcs.org
I am so delighted to be returning for my second year as the Music and Art teacher at Saint Joseph's RCS! In December of 2017, I received my bachelor's degree in Theology and Religious Studies from The Catholic University of America with a minor in Philosophy. During my time at CUA, I was blessed with the opportunity to deepen my knowledge of music and art through participating in the University Singers, studying piano, and studying Christian Renaissance Art. It brings me great joy to teach two Creative Arts disciplines because I believe that striving to create something beautiful can help us grow in our relationship with the One who is perfectly beautiful, Jesus Christ.
Mrs. Maritza Arroyo, Spanish
spanish@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Arroyo hails from Ecuador. She acquired her degrees in Social Science/Politics and Law from The University of Guayaquil in Ecuador. Furthermore, she is certified in the State of Maryland as a preschool teacher. She obtained her experience in teaching Spanish while working under Mrs. Vargas, Mrs. Carpio, and Mrs. Fernandez (all former Spanish teachers at St. Joseph’s). In addition to teaching, she also serves as a staff member of the Extended Care Program (ECP). She looks forward to working with your children.
Ms. Gina Gomes, Art
art@stjosrcs.org
I am so delighted to be returning for my second year as the Music and Art teacher at Saint Joseph's RCS! In December of 2017, I received my bachelor's degree in Theology and Religious Studies from The Catholic University of America with a minor in Philosophy. During my time at CUA, I was blessed with the opportunity to deepen my knowledge of music and art through participating in the University Singers, studying piano, and studying Christian Renaissance Art. It brings me great joy to teach two Creative Arts disciplines because I believe that striving to create something beautiful can help us grow in our relationship with the One who is perfectly beautiful, Jesus Christ.
Mrs. Shanae Moreno, Technology
technology@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Moreno graduated from Bowie State University with a Bachelors of Science degree in Computer Technology in 2009. While working in the private sector, she went on to obtain a Masters of Science Degree in Information Assurance (Cyber Security) from The University of Maryland University College in 2012. In her free time, she enjoys being with family, traveling, and shopping. She is looking forward to starting a long and prosperous teaching career here at St. Josephs.
Mr. Kevin Kenealy, Middle School Religion
religion@stjosrcs.org
I earned a BA, from the University of Virginia and an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin. This is my first year as a faculty member and my third year as a catechist for the St. Joseph's Parish Religion Education Program where I've been a parishioner since 2016. I enjoy teaching Religion and in particular instructing middle schoolers. I also coached several youth sports including soccer, basketball, and baseball. The support of the regional parishes and their partnership with the school makes serving at St. Joseph's truly enjoyable. My wife Rosanne and I have five children, three of whom graduated from St. Joseph's. My son Erban is currently in 7th grade and my wife volunteers as room parent and volunteer.
Mr. Kevin Dominique, Physical Education
pe@stjosrcs.org
GRADE LEVEL FACULTY
Mrs. Lipika Gomes Pre-Kindergarten 3
prek3@stjosrcs.org
Teacher’s Aide: Mrs. Clery Benavides
Ms. Terris Davis, Pre-Kindergarten 4, Pre-Kindergarten Director
prek34@stjosrcs.org
Ms. Davis was raised in Maryland where she attended elementary and middle schools in Prince Georges County. In 1984, she transferred to a Catholic high school in Washington D.C. She fondly remembers her days, as a student, at Saint Cecilia Academy. In 1991, she and her mother opened a small group center (daycare) that successfully operated until 2018. Over the span of this position, she developed cross training about the daycare business including teaching infants and toddlers, preschoolers, and school aged children. She met awesome families with whom she keeps in touch. Her love for learning about child development pushed her to study more. Thus, in 2006, she received an Associates in Applied Science Degree in Early Childhood Education from Prince George’s Community College. In 2015, she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Washington Adventist University. There, she graduated with academic honors. Ms. Davis is continuing her educational pursuit at the Bowie State University! Over the course of years, she has taught preschool, head start and kindergarten students and appointed twice to serve on the school readiness committees at her former school. She believes God has called her to teach the very young. Therefore, she has zealously accepted the call! Ms. Davis looks forward to working at Saint Joseph’s!
Teacher’s Aide: Mrs. Dinora Billingslea
Ms. Julie Angelaras, KindergartenA
kindergarten@stjosrcs.org
Teacher’s Aide: Mrs. Kaitlyn House
Ms. Ariel Rivers, KindergartenR
kindergarten1@stjosrcs.org
Teacher’s Aide: Mrs. Rosa Sorto
Ms. Emily Bryan, 1st Grade
grade1@stjosrcs.org
Teacher’s Aide: Mrs. Renea Laqui
Mrs. Marie Altemus, 2nd Grade
grade2@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Altemus received her BA degree from the Catholic University of America and earned her teaching certificate in 2012. She served as Title I Teacher at Adelphi Elementary School from 1995 to 1997 and from there went on as an Inclusion Teacher for the Lt. Joseph P. Kennedy Institute at St. Camillus School from 1997 to 2001 where she received the “Essence” Award. She then taught 3rd grade at St. Camillus from 2001 to 2003. Since September 2003, she has taught 2nd grade here at St. Joseph’s and was recognized in the 9th and 10th Editions of “Who’s Who Among America’s Most Respected Teachers.” She was also “Teacher of the Year” for 2012 and in April 2018, she was awarded the "Golden Diamond" award. In December 2018, she was the recipient of the VFW Teacher of the Year. Her passion is filling young minds with the love of Christ and learning, and she is also a catechist at the Church of the Resurrection in Burtonsville, Maryland. Mrs. Altemus is married with two grown children and and she and her husband love spending time with their 3 grandchildren; Mia, Hudson, and Lincoln!
Teacher’s Aide: Mrs. Elizabeth Hernandez
Ms. Corinne Remy, 3rd Grade
grade3@stjosrcs.org
Ms. Meg O’Brien, 4th Grade
grade4@stjosrcs.org
Ms. O’Brien received her Bachelor of Science degree in Education from the University of Maryland. She worked as a Pre-Kindergarten teacher for 13 years. She also worked at St. Joseph’s Extended Care Program. She has been teaching fourth grade at St. Joseph’s School since August 2006. She was Teacher of the Year for June 2010. In May of 2013, she received the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching from the Archdiocese of Washington.
Mrs. Alison Deptula, 5th Grade
grade5@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Deptula graduated from Northeastern Illinois University with her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. While her education career began in Chicago at a Catholic school, she has since brought her love of learning to Maryland where she lives with her husband and two cats. When not teaching or reading every book she can get her hands on, Mrs. Deptula likes to sew, cook, and spend time with her family.
Mr. Jacob Greene, 6th Grade
grade6@stjosrcs.org
The study of words is immensely valuable in the pursuit of understanding ourselves and the world around us. Through LA we learn to better our communication skills (things like word choice, literary cadence, and punctuation), improve our ability to effectively formulate ideas and concepts, and expand our realm of perception through critical thinking. Having graduated from Washington College with a BA in English Literature, I’ve realized that we should never stop working to refine these skills; we should always strive for self improvement. It is my goal to instill this desire in my students and help them to meet their full potential.
Mr. Christopher Tsichlis, 7th Grade
grade7@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Kathy Pappas, 8th Grade
grade8@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Pappas received her Bachelor of Science degree in elementary & middle school curriculum from Frostburg State University. She has taught middle school math and science at St. Joseph’s Regional School since January 2004. Before that, she held several positions in the Childtime Learning Centers including center director and East region training manager. Mrs. Pappas was Teacher of the Year at St. Joseph’s RCS in June of 2008. In May of 2010, she received the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching from the Archdiocese of Washington. In her free time, Mrs. Pappas loves to spend time with family and travel.
principal@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Meunier comes to us from Northern Virginia where she was born and raised. Starting out as an applied math consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton, she took several years off to raise her three children, currently 12, 13 and 16. When her youngest was in preschool she began as a middle school math teacher in the Diocese of Arlington. She is thrilled to join the Archdiocese of Washington as an administrator. She has a B.S. in Economics and Math, M.S. in Operations Research, and is a couple classes away from finishing her coursework for a Ph.D in Education and Administration all at George Mason University. Two of her children currently attend St. Joseph's. In her free time she loves to shop, watch movies, and spend time with her family.
Mr. James Morris, Vice Principal, Advanced Math
viceprincipal@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Joelle Taylor, Director of Enrollment
director@stjosrcs.org
I am very blessed to serve the St. Joseph's community! I graduated with high honors from DePaul University and received a Bachelor of Arts degree with a dual major in Sociology and Communications. After working in the nonprofit sector, I went on to earn a Master in City Planning degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, MA. After graduating from MIT, I worked several years in corporate community relations and philanthropy before taking on the most challenging and rewarding experience of my life as a work-at-home mom. More recently, I worked as an adjunct instructor at Montgomery College before serving in various administrative positions at St. Joseph's. My husband and I are the proud parents of four daughters, two currently attend St. Joseph's and one is a St. Joseph's graduate.
Ms. Jocelyn Pagan, Office Manager
officemanager@stjosrcs.org
As the proud mother of a St. Joseph's alumni and a former Extended Care Program teacher, I have first-hand experience of how rewarding it is to work in the school environment. I feel like going to work is like going to a second home, where I get to see familiar faces that bring me great joy and do work that is nothing short of rewarding...I strongly believe that serving others requires humility, character and a strong work ethic. These are all qualities that I continuously strive to maintain at a high standard.
Ms. Alejandra Velasquez, Secretary
secretary@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Pamela Kennedy, Resource Teacher
resource@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Kennedy has a Bachelor’s degree in Educational Psychology from the University of our Savior (Universidad del Salvador, Buenos Aires, Argentina) and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education from the George Washington University in Washington DC. She previously worked at Frances Fuchs ECC and was a teacher for the Ivymount Corporation for ten years, at the Ivymount School and the Maddux School.
Mr. Ben Flores, Maintenance Engineer
FACULTY
Ms. Gina Gomes, Music
music@stjosrcs.org
I am so delighted to be returning for my second year as the Music and Art teacher at Saint Joseph's RCS! In December of 2017, I received my bachelor's degree in Theology and Religious Studies from The Catholic University of America with a minor in Philosophy. During my time at CUA, I was blessed with the opportunity to deepen my knowledge of music and art through participating in the University Singers, studying piano, and studying Christian Renaissance Art. It brings me great joy to teach two Creative Arts disciplines because I believe that striving to create something beautiful can help us grow in our relationship with the One who is perfectly beautiful, Jesus Christ.
Mrs. Maritza Arroyo, Spanish
spanish@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Arroyo hails from Ecuador. She acquired her degrees in Social Science/Politics and Law from The University of Guayaquil in Ecuador. Furthermore, she is certified in the State of Maryland as a preschool teacher. She obtained her experience in teaching Spanish while working under Mrs. Vargas, Mrs. Carpio, and Mrs. Fernandez (all former Spanish teachers at St. Joseph’s). In addition to teaching, she also serves as a staff member of the Extended Care Program (ECP). She looks forward to working with your children.
Ms. Gina Gomes, Art
art@stjosrcs.org
I am so delighted to be returning for my second year as the Music and Art teacher at Saint Joseph's RCS! In December of 2017, I received my bachelor's degree in Theology and Religious Studies from The Catholic University of America with a minor in Philosophy. During my time at CUA, I was blessed with the opportunity to deepen my knowledge of music and art through participating in the University Singers, studying piano, and studying Christian Renaissance Art. It brings me great joy to teach two Creative Arts disciplines because I believe that striving to create something beautiful can help us grow in our relationship with the One who is perfectly beautiful, Jesus Christ.
Mrs. Shanae Moreno, Technology
technology@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Moreno graduated from Bowie State University with a Bachelors of Science degree in Computer Technology in 2009. While working in the private sector, she went on to obtain a Masters of Science Degree in Information Assurance (Cyber Security) from The University of Maryland University College in 2012. In her free time, she enjoys being with family, traveling, and shopping. She is looking forward to starting a long and prosperous teaching career here at St. Josephs.
Mr. Kevin Kenealy, Middle School Religion
religion@stjosrcs.org
I earned a BA, from the University of Virginia and an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin. This is my first year as a faculty member and my third year as a catechist for the St. Joseph's Parish Religion Education Program where I've been a parishioner since 2016. I enjoy teaching Religion and in particular instructing middle schoolers. I also coached several youth sports including soccer, basketball, and baseball. The support of the regional parishes and their partnership with the school makes serving at St. Joseph's truly enjoyable. My wife Rosanne and I have five children, three of whom graduated from St. Joseph's. My son Erban is currently in 7th grade and my wife volunteers as room parent and volunteer.
Mr. Kevin Dominique, Physical Education
pe@stjosrcs.org
GRADE LEVEL FACULTY
Mrs. Lipika Gomes Pre-Kindergarten 3
prek3@stjosrcs.org
Teacher’s Aide: Mrs. Clery Benavides
Ms. Terris Davis, Pre-Kindergarten 4, Pre-Kindergarten Director
prek34@stjosrcs.org
Ms. Davis was raised in Maryland where she attended elementary and middle schools in Prince Georges County. In 1984, she transferred to a Catholic high school in Washington D.C. She fondly remembers her days, as a student, at Saint Cecilia Academy. In 1991, she and her mother opened a small group center (daycare) that successfully operated until 2018. Over the span of this position, she developed cross training about the daycare business including teaching infants and toddlers, preschoolers, and school aged children. She met awesome families with whom she keeps in touch. Her love for learning about child development pushed her to study more. Thus, in 2006, she received an Associates in Applied Science Degree in Early Childhood Education from Prince George’s Community College. In 2015, she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Washington Adventist University. There, she graduated with academic honors. Ms. Davis is continuing her educational pursuit at the Bowie State University! Over the course of years, she has taught preschool, head start and kindergarten students and appointed twice to serve on the school readiness committees at her former school. She believes God has called her to teach the very young. Therefore, she has zealously accepted the call! Ms. Davis looks forward to working at Saint Joseph’s!
Teacher’s Aide: Mrs. Dinora Billingslea
Ms. Julie Angelaras, KindergartenA
kindergarten@stjosrcs.org
Teacher’s Aide: Mrs. Kaitlyn House
Ms. Ariel Rivers, KindergartenR
kindergarten1@stjosrcs.org
Teacher’s Aide: Mrs. Rosa Sorto
Ms. Emily Bryan, 1st Grade
grade1@stjosrcs.org
Teacher’s Aide: Mrs. Renea Laqui
Mrs. Marie Altemus, 2nd Grade
grade2@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Altemus received her BA degree from the Catholic University of America and earned her teaching certificate in 2012. She served as Title I Teacher at Adelphi Elementary School from 1995 to 1997 and from there went on as an Inclusion Teacher for the Lt. Joseph P. Kennedy Institute at St. Camillus School from 1997 to 2001 where she received the “Essence” Award. She then taught 3rd grade at St. Camillus from 2001 to 2003. Since September 2003, she has taught 2nd grade here at St. Joseph’s and was recognized in the 9th and 10th Editions of “Who’s Who Among America’s Most Respected Teachers.” She was also “Teacher of the Year” for 2012 and in April 2018, she was awarded the "Golden Diamond" award. In December 2018, she was the recipient of the VFW Teacher of the Year. Her passion is filling young minds with the love of Christ and learning, and she is also a catechist at the Church of the Resurrection in Burtonsville, Maryland. Mrs. Altemus is married with two grown children and and she and her husband love spending time with their 3 grandchildren; Mia, Hudson, and Lincoln!
Teacher’s Aide: Mrs. Elizabeth Hernandez
Ms. Corinne Remy, 3rd Grade
grade3@stjosrcs.org
Ms. Meg O’Brien, 4th Grade
grade4@stjosrcs.org
Ms. O’Brien received her Bachelor of Science degree in Education from the University of Maryland. She worked as a Pre-Kindergarten teacher for 13 years. She also worked at St. Joseph’s Extended Care Program. She has been teaching fourth grade at St. Joseph’s School since August 2006. She was Teacher of the Year for June 2010. In May of 2013, she received the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching from the Archdiocese of Washington.
Mrs. Alison Deptula, 5th Grade
grade5@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Deptula graduated from Northeastern Illinois University with her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. While her education career began in Chicago at a Catholic school, she has since brought her love of learning to Maryland where she lives with her husband and two cats. When not teaching or reading every book she can get her hands on, Mrs. Deptula likes to sew, cook, and spend time with her family.
Mr. Jacob Greene, 6th Grade
grade6@stjosrcs.org
The study of words is immensely valuable in the pursuit of understanding ourselves and the world around us. Through LA we learn to better our communication skills (things like word choice, literary cadence, and punctuation), improve our ability to effectively formulate ideas and concepts, and expand our realm of perception through critical thinking. Having graduated from Washington College with a BA in English Literature, I’ve realized that we should never stop working to refine these skills; we should always strive for self improvement. It is my goal to instill this desire in my students and help them to meet their full potential.
Mr. Christopher Tsichlis, 7th Grade
grade7@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Kathy Pappas, 8th Grade
grade8@stjosrcs.org
Mrs. Pappas received her Bachelor of Science degree in elementary & middle school curriculum from Frostburg State University. She has taught middle school math and science at St. Joseph’s Regional School since January 2004. Before that, she held several positions in the Childtime Learning Centers including center director and East region training manager. Mrs. Pappas was Teacher of the Year at St. Joseph’s RCS in June of 2008. In May of 2010, she received the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching from the Archdiocese of Washington. In her free time, Mrs. Pappas loves to spend time with family and travel.