Here at St. Joseph Academy, there are always numerous new things implemented into the fresh start of the school year. This 2025 school year, St. Joe has already added several new things around campus, such as the construction of an upcoming parking lot, clubs, LACE family olympics, updated tennis courts, a math lab, and so much more. Sophomores and upperclassmen also welcomed the incoming freshman class of 2025 into the tight-knit community with Jester hats, symbolizing a long-held tradition at the academy. In addition to the freshman class, St. Joe is overjoyed and grateful to welcome the new remarkable teachers of the 2025 school year, even if it is without goofy hats.
Included in this parade of new features this year we welcome a wonderful group of four women, including three alumni, with open arms into our building. All four teachers teach different subjects, ranging from theology to social studies. These women are ready to carry out the “Not I But We” motto in their classrooms. We’re ecstatic to welcome the amazing group: Kate (Postal) Mantovani ‘02, Mariette (Portugal) Baxendale ‘84, Melissa (Grelle) Scheller ‘10, and lastly, Bella Neuman.
A new member of the SJA 2025 Theology department, but not new to SJA, is Kate Mantovani ‘02. It is no surprise that Mantovani is thrilled to be back at the academy. She expressed a desire for the SJA community to know much she has missed it.
“I’m not sure this is a secret to anyone I’ve met or talked to, but I am so thrilled to be back at SJA. Having worked here for 10 years before staying home with my kiddos, the thought of returning entered my mind quite frequently. I’m so happy to be teaching in the Theology Department, and I’m looking forward to a great year,” said Mantovani.
She also mentioned the use of laptops and a newly refurbished theater and gymnasium is something different from her years at the academy. However, she stated, “the joy, laughter, kindness, and impressive learning that I’ve witnessed over the past two months remind me of why SJA was and continues to be such a special place.” Emphasizing the core values and vibrant community at St. Joe will never change.
Another face new to the teaching aspect of SJA, but not unfamiliar with the strong core values and remarkable community, is alum Mariette (Portugal) Baxendale ‘84. Dr. Baxendale is a member of the Science department. She earned her Ph.D. in biology at St. Louis University. Reflecting on her biology class as an angel, she remembers dissecting frogs and her teacher affirming her inherent interest in creation.
Her time outside, aside from teaching, is spent actively,
“Outside of work, I love to sew. I repurpose t-shirts by upcycling them into skirts, dresses, and pants. I listen to music, teach myself dance moves, have a glass of wine with my husband, hang out with him and watch old sitcoms, or grab a bite and catch up with my adult sons, sit outside and enjoy nature, and sit and pray in church when no one else is in there. If there is a piano or keyboard around, I like to tinker on it, and love attending a festival, art fair or trivia night, estate sale hopping, and shopping for vintage clothing,” said Baxendale.
Our next spotlight is Melissa (Grelle) Scheller ‘10. Scheller is an alum of the class of 2010 and is ecstatic to be newly included in the 2025 math department of the academy. She is currently instructing the areas of Algebra I and Algebra I Accelerated to the freshman class and is looking forward to covering solving systems of equations.
From her high school self’s perspective of SJA, her favorite tradition was Mission Week because it’s “so fun to see everyone use their talents in different ways!” said Scheller. Additionally, she mentioned that sitting in the hallway and talking with friends before school started was one of her favorite memories of her years at the academy.
Lastly, let’s welcome our final teacher of the 2025-2026 school year, Bella Neuman, who is a part of the social studies department. Neuman is new to the St. Joe family; however, she immediately knew it was the right place for her. She cites her interactions with the students as her primary motivation to join St. Joe’s community.
“I knew St. Joe was the right place for me when I met the students. Even when I came up during the summer, they seemed so excited to be here and were so kind and welcoming. I am so grateful to be here and get to work with such amazing girls every day!” said Neuman. Additionally, she stated she’s excited to witness and experience her first Mission Week. Aren’t we all!
We are so honored and enthusiastic to welcome a remarkable group of women who we can all learn from as we work together to enhance the “Not I But We” motto at the academy. Make sure to give a warm, welcoming smile to these amazing ladies!
