Principal Spotlight

Principal Jackie Zackel is proud to be a member of the St. Teresa Catholic School family. Learn more about her, her passion for education, and how God led her to St. Teresa.

Where did you grow up?

My family moved to Titusville from Chicago to be a part of the Apollo space program when I was a year old. We’ve been parishioners of St. Teresa Parish and School Community since then. My husband and his family also moved here from Ohio when he was a year old, and they’ve been very active in the school and parish community.

What did you want to be when you were little?  

From a young age, I always wanted to be a teacher. During my high school years, I thought I would become a nurse and then eventually a nursing teacher, so I began a nursing program out of high school while working at a hospital. I also began substituting at the local high school to make extra money to purchase a car, and I fell in love with teaching. After I got married and had two children, I returned to college to become a middle/high school math teacher.

Tell us about your journey to becoming a principal.

During my third year as a teacher, I had the pleasure of working under the leadership of a wonderful principal. I envisioned myself being like her one day. I had two young children at the time, so I wanted to give my full attention to them for a few more years. As I was looking into a Leadership Program, I became pregnant with our third child. So, again I put off working towards my master’s degree until she was old enough for me to be consumed with classes and school work while still working full-time. I was given the opportunity to attend Barry University on a full scholarship so I took advantage of it! I embraced the chance to obtain my degree within three years under this cohort program while I was promoted to Assistant Principal of St. Teresa School.

What is the most rewarding thing about your job?   

The most rewarding part of being a principal is to help our students become their true selves while reaching their full potential. As a school community, I feel we have performed mini-miracles with many students and families.  

What sets St. Teresa apart?

We’re a small school, which helps to keep the lines of communication open and also to maintain a family-like atmosphere. The students know that they’re cared for and loved in a Christ-like community.  

What do you hope students take away from their time at St. Teresa?

I feel my faculty and staff strive to make each child feel unique and special. Some of our students stand out for their high academic achievement, others with their athletic ability, while others are inspired musically or artistically! Each child is a child of God with [their own] gifts and talents, and we do a great job tapping into those specific gifts and bringing out the best in our students.

Get to Know Jackie Zackel

Q: What do you like to do for fun?

A: I enjoy playing volleyball and pickleball three times a week. In addition, I love the outdoors for hiking, walking, and gardening.

Q: Do you have a favorite movie or TV show?  

A: I have been enjoying God Friended Me! The characters are young and smart, and the episodes are uplifting and spiritual. It’s a nice change from the usual TV shows.

Q: What’s your favorite book?  

A: I have a lot of favorites, but my all-time favorite is A Land Remembered by Patrick Smith. It’s about the history of Florida!

Q: If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

A: It would be to have the ability to heal people. There are so many people hurting in this world not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually.   

Q: If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

A: I could probably live on pasta! I enjoy many varieties and different recipes.

Q: Do you have a favorite place that you’ve visited?

A: I traveled to Ireland on a pilgrimage with our parish community. My mother and two of my sisters were also on the trip. We had such a memorable time!

With over 57 years of academic excellence, St. Teresa Catholic School, a private school in Titusville, provides a quality education that challenges and empowers students to develop to their full potential. Students foster qualities that are essential for lifelong learning and are equipped for future success. To learn more about why St. Teresa is the perfect fit for you and your student, contact us today.