Meet our P.E. Teacher – Mrs. McCabe

How long have you been teaching and what have you taught?

I taught Psychology and American History at Oak Park River Forest High School until my children were born. I continued with my coaching and working as a substitute teacher in my children’s school. I’ve been at Grace School as the P.E. teacher about 4 months.

What do you love the most about teaching at Grace?

In some ways, it’s like coming home. Being here is so meaningful to me because I appreciate all I gained from the education I got here. This experience goes way beyond nostalgia, though! I love these students and want so much to do my best for them.

What is the best word to describe Grace?

Grace filled. That’s really two words! I see teachers every day giving their best to their students. The purpose at Grace is to educate, challenge, nurture, love, and in every way help to encourage the students to grow into become what God wants for us. God’s spirit is at work here.

What is a unique experience, talent, or interest that you bring to your classroom to help shape the learning experience of your students?

I’ve had some wonderful experiences, for which I’m incredibly grateful. I had the chance to be a student in a small village school in Kenya. I raced at National Track & Field Championship meets for St. Olaf College. I’ve been blessed with a wonderful, loving family. I’ve also been incredibly anxious when facing new challenges, and I’ve had to struggle with rough times that undoubtedly come along in this life. Perhaps the real gift I have to share with young people is the confidence I have that God is with us through it all. We should just keep trying our best to follow Him!

What is your favorite thing to do outside of school?

My family has a wonderful spot on an island in Door County, Wisconsin. Time there is heavenly. I love to go for a run, jump in the lake, eat the pancakes my mom has made, read, paint a rock, play cards with my daughters…. There are just too many favorite things to list them all here.

What is your favorite Bible verse and why?

I have a bunch of favorite Bible verses, too.  One currently on my mind: “For God gave us a spirit not of fear, but of power and love and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1:7.  This might be the verse that prompted me to consider becoming a PE teacher.

What is the best advice that you’ve ever heard?

Eat your vegetables.

What is something that recently made you smile?

Playing reindeer tail Tag with Grace school students was a blast.