LAKELAND - For Joe Marion, being a Catholic school principal is more than just molding the minds of tomorrow’s future - it’s an opportunity to connect students with life’s true teacher: Christ.
It is because of this belief Marion was selected as the LCSD nominee for the 2023 Excellence in Catholic Education Teaching Staff Award.
“I love that working in Catholic Education means accompanying one another on a Holy pilgrimage every year as we journey together, side-by-side, towards understand and strengthening our relationship with God,” he said. “Catholic Education places a strong emphasis on the development of the whole child; academically, spiritually, physically and mentally. It is a gift to be treasured and I am proud to be a part of it.”
Marion has been an educator with Lakeland Catholic for seven years, serving as a teacher at Holy Cross before stepping into the role of Vice Principal at École Notre Dame Elementary. Now, Marion serves the district as Principal of Dr. Bernard Brosseau School.
Marion was always drawn to Catholic Education, and recalls his desire to help others at a young age.
“As I grew forward in my faith journey, this transformed into a more clear vision and mission to serve and give glory to God in all that I do. It didn’t take me long after my first month of teaching to realize this is where God has asked me to be,” he said.
The Excellence in Catholic Education Award is presented annually to an educator who models Catholic values and lifestyle, positively contributes to the development of students and their spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth, and is active in their parish and faith life, among others.
Marion said this nomination is both honouring and humbling.
“To me, I do not view this award as a celebration of anything that I have done on my own, but what has been made possible through the remarkable guidance of Gospel Witnesses that have accompanied me throughout my life and inspired me to serve others for the greater good.”
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
Psalm 23:1