Fun Faculty Facts
To accommodate the increase in enrollment and the addition of the Philosophy department, Charlotte Catholic welcomed 25 new faculty members to the Cougar family. Get to know some of them below:
Mrs. Stephanie Crainer teaches Advanced Chemistry and Honors Physics. She played basketball in high school and now enjoys watching her two sons play sports. Mrs. Crainer has loved getting to know her co-workers at Charlotte Catholic. "Everyone is so happy to be here, and they love what they do. It's a great work environment.”
Words of wisdom: If she could tell students one thing, it would be “to give yourself grace. Everyone makes mistakes, so embrace them.”
Mr. Fernando Daneri, an avid piano player, currently teaches Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Computer Science, and AP Computer Science. He has taught these subjects in several countries and is fluent in English, Spanish, and German. He enjoys teaching at Catholic because religion is at the core of the school and he feels that faith connects everyone.
Words of Wisdom: Mr. Daneri wants students to follow their passion. When you love what you do, it is not “working anymore, it’s just fun.”
Mrs. Heather Fisher teaches Advanced Geometry and Functions and Modeling. She loves working at Charlotte Catholic because the students “care about learning and doing well.” When she was a high school student, she was an All-American water polo player. Now in her free time, Mrs. Fisher enjoys cooking, going to sporting events, and eating at new restaurants.
Words of Wisdom: “Just because something feels easy or right in the moment, does not mean it is the best decision for the long run. Students should focus on what is best for them and their future.”
Mrs. Stephanie Hall is a sophomore English teacher and Charlotte Catholic alum. Outside of class, she enjoys boating on the lake with her husband and two kids, as well as shooting pool competitively. This summer she competed in the world pool tournament in Las Vegas.
Words of Wisdom: “Don’t let the little things bother you! Most of the problems that seem so important right now, like a bad sports game or an argument with a friend, will seem inconsequential later in life.”
Mrs. Alana Hayes teaches Advanced Biology and Forensics. She loves that Charlotte Catholic is a tight knit community of students who love learning. Outside of school, Mrs. Hayes enjoys reading, traveling, and working out.
Words of Wisdom: “Don't let temporary distractions keep you from your life long successes.”
Mrs. Allie Hilgen teaches English 9. A CCHS graduate, she is excited to return to the Catholic environment. When she is not teaching, she loves to watch sports, cook, and travel. One unique thing about her is that she is ambidextrous.
Words of Wisdom: “Always put your faith first and God will provide.”
Mrs. Marissa Ruland, born and raised in south Florida, teaches Intro to Programming, Web Design, and Advanced Algebra 2. She loves teaching at Charlotte Catholic because of the people and the good vibes they bring. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her daughters and dog, as well as exploring nature and going to the beach.
Words of Wisdom: “Don’t take yourself too seriously. Relax and enjoy what you have.”
Mrs. Leslie Summers teaches English 9 and Advanced English 10. When she is not teaching, she enjoys skydiving, hiking with her dog Burt, going to the gym, hanging out with friends and family, and reading.
Words of wisdom: “Pray, trust in the Holy Spirit, and go to Mass as often as possible. Also, be diligent and always be gritty.”
Mrs. Lauren Switzer '11 teaches Spanish 2 and Advanced Spanish 2. In her free time, she enjoys creating art, especially diamond paintings. She loves being able to share her faith with her students and enjoys the strong sense of community at Catholic.
Words of Wisdom: “Don't try to plan out your entire life! God has a plan for your life, and you need to trust in Him and His plan for you. He knows best!”
