A Message from Mrs. Perrault, Principal
Dear Families,
We left for spring break and returned to winter—but I’m so happy to see that spring is back again! Spring at SSM is always something to look forward to, and we have so many wonderful events ahead: Easter, First Communions, Confirmation, the school musical, the History–Science–Author Fair, fun-filled field trips, and much more. Be sure to check the Martyr Messenger, Google Calendar, and our social media pages so you don’t miss out on any of the excitement.
Enrollment is now underway! Some of our classes are already full or very close to capacity. If you plan to return next year, please complete your enrollment packet as soon as possible. We truly hope to welcome all of our families back.
In the last Messenger, I announced the teachers who will not be returning for the 2026–2027 school year. It is never easy to say goodbye to valued staff members. We trust in our faith that God is guiding them to new paths beyond SSM. At the same time, we are grateful for the many blessings He continues to bestow on our school, including bringing new teachers into our wonderful community.
We are excited to welcome the following educators to SSM for the upcoming school year:
Kindergarten
Dr. Sarah Valasek – Dr. Valasek has taught kindergarten and Spanish, led the 2nd grade IB PYP program, and most recently served as principal at St. Bernard’s School. She is also an active parishioner at St. Stephen the Martyr Church.
Mrs. Mary Wolff – Mrs. Wolff has several years of experience teaching in Catholic schools in Kansas City and within the Lincoln Diocese. Since moving to Omaha, she has most recently been serving as a substitute teacher at SSM.
First Grade
Mrs. Mickens – Mrs. Mickens earned both her master’s and doctorate degrees from Creighton University. She brings eight years of experience teaching PreK–1st grade at Holy Name.
Mrs. Grasmick – Mrs. Grasmick has six years of experience teaching PreK–1st grade. She has worked alongside Mrs. Mickens and looks forward to continuing their collaboration at SSM.
Third Grade
Ms. Karissa Nichols – Ms. Nichols brings four years of teaching experience and is currently teaching 3rd grade at St. Bernard’s. She comes highly recommended and is excited to join the SSM community.
Mrs. Stephanie Curran – Mrs. Curran has 19 years of teaching experience and most recently taught at St. Patrick’s in Elkhorn. She holds two master’s degrees—one in counseling and one in curriculum and instruction.
Fifth Grade
Mrs. Jackie Torczon – Mrs. Torczon will join the 5th grade team teaching math and social studies. She has 15 years of experience in the Papillion La Vista School District. Teaching in a Catholic school has long been her goal, and she is excited to bring Christ into her classroom.
Mrs. McClanathan – Mrs. McClanathan will also join the 5th grade team, teaching reading and English. She brings 11 years of experience in both public and Catholic schools and currently teaches 5th grade at St. Bernard’s.
Sixth Grade: (Please note: Mrs. Pestel, who currently teaches 6th grade ELA, will transition to teaching 5th/6th grade religion next year.)
Mr. Benjamin Fast – Mr. Fast will teach 6th grade English and literature. He holds a master’s degree in English from Creighton University and has served as a creative writing teaching assistant, academic writing tutor, and assistant editor for the Creighton Literary Magazine. Most recently, he has been substitute teaching in the Millard School District. His passion for English is sure to inspire his students.
Art
Mrs. Jennifer Trevett – Mrs. Trevett has a master’s degree and eight years of teaching experience. She has taught at Phoenix Academy, Acton Academy, and through private art lessons. She also volunteers as a muralist for “Special Spaces,” a program that creates dream bedroom makeovers for children diagnosed with cancer.
Thank you for all you do. We are so blessed to have your support and partnership,
Mrs. Perrault
In this issue of Martyr Messenger:
- Admin Updates: 2 PM Dismissal, Report Cards, FACTS Security, Enrollment Reminder, Merit March, Middle School Fair, Seeking School Advisory Board Members, 7th Grade Physicals, Book Fair, Congratulations to Sarah Fernandes, Serra Server Awards
- Home & School Updates: Easter Celebration & Egg Hunt, School Musical Tickets on Sale, First Communion Breakfast, Upload Yearbook Photos
- Men's Club Updates: Triathlon - Proceeds to Benefit Teachers
- Parish Updates: Lent Activities, Totus Tuus Registration, Register for Steubenville, Vacation Bible School, New Confirmation Coordinator, Middle School Youth Ministry Volunteers Needed
- Community Updates: My Guy & I Dance, Flaming Hoops Basketball Camp, SkyHawks Tryouts, Summer camps at area high schools