For the last 15 years, Patsy Thieken has faithfully served as a middle school math teacher at The Franciscan School. We have been blessed by her enthusiasm, creativity, and dedication to her students and the school community. “I am deeply motivated to teach,” shares Thieken, “because of my genuine passion for student interactions and fostering meaningful conversations with them.” Thieken admits that she receives great joy and fulfillment in watching her students grow and transform as they prepare for the significant transition to high school. “Being a part of their journey and seeing them thrive as they conquer challenges fuels my drive to continue teaching and making a positive impact on their lives.”

Thieken began her education and career at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she majored in Mathematical Sciences with a concentration in Computer Science. She worked in computer programming for a company in the Research Triangle Park while simultaneously receiving her master’s in business administration degree from Duke University. After working in marketing for a telecommunications company, she decided to stay home with her children until her third child started kindergarten. 

It was during this time that Thieken began substitute teaching at TFS. She realized the passion that came from teaching, so she received her teaching certification. She then began teaching math in 6^th grade and has since moved to 8^th grade math. “Helping students develop their confidence and knowledge in math is incredibly rewarding,” says Thieken. “I believe a strong foundation in this subject is essential for their future success.”

Thieken’s daughter attended TFS in first grade on the day the school opened. All three of her children attended the school, so Thieken has been involved both as a parent and teacher since the beginning. She shares that, “TFS has provided a wonderful, faith-based education for my family, and a wonderful place for me to work.”

A typical day in the classroom with Thieken always begins with prayer. The class reviews any assignments from the previous lesson and then begins work on the new material. Thieken likes to leave time in class for students to start the practice assignment in case there are questions or things she can help with. Assignments are a mix: some are on paper, some are in the Google classroom, and some are on IXL, an online learning platform. Thieken shares that the pandemic made shifts that are here to stay, like using technology to help students learn and practice. “One of the things I like about IXL is that it allows me to watch students solve problems in real time and alerts me when a student may need help,” Thieken shares.

Thieken admits that her classes are rigorous because she is preparing her students for high school. Math is a subject that builds year after year, so there are topics she must cover. But she also feels confident that the trust she has built with students creates a comfortable environment where they can ask questions and even have fun along the way.

Although some things have changed in the 15 years that Thieken began teaching at TFS, one of the things that hasn’t is the support of administration and the community. “I continue to appreciate the support of Mrs. Smith and Mrs. Dziadul who are always willing to listen to new ideas,” says Thieken. She also shares that the new advisories in middle school and the 8^th grade capstone have been exciting additions. 

Principal Smith says of Thieken: “Patsy is a significant leader in our school community serving as the eighth-grade team leader and a member of the Cognia accreditation team. Patsy is accessible to all of her students, values each student, and assists them in working to their individual potential. She is a true team player!”

Thank you, Patsy, for your years of service and we look forward to another year of math adventures with you!