Sr. Pat Day

On Thursday, May 13, 2010, St. Michael School honored Sr. Pat McKee as she prepares for retirement after 36 years of dedicated service to the school and parish.

During her time here, Sr. Pat has served in a variety of roles at the school. She worked as an assistant principal to each principal that came during her tenure. She helped set-up and direct the Learning Media Center. She acted as transpor-tation coordinator safely managing children coming to and from the school. She inspired students as a Religion teacher. And, more recently, she has become the resident expert helping other teachers learn ways to best utilize the school's many SMART Boards in their lesson plans.

But, Sr. Pat will most likely be remembered best by the students of St, Michael School for her Hot Dog Days and Mardi Gras. To this day, no one has mastered the secret taste of her famous hot dog or popcorn. And each year students looked forward to the fun and games that Mardi Gras provided. "I always thought it was important to provide students with some fun days to remember about their school," said Sr. Pat. Graduates of SMS will readily admit that she succeeded.

As part of the "Sr. Pat Day" celebration, all school children were given Mardi Gras beads and a special "Love is. . ." button honoring Sr. Pat to wear. Then, each hour throughout the day, guests interrupted Sr. Pat with their rendition of "This is Your Life." While one of Sr. Pat's favorite hymns played over the school PA system, the speaker would tell a story about their experience with Sr. Pat and present her with a little token to remember them by. Guests included students, a past principal, parents and more.

The day culminated with a special Mass for school children and their families. Fr. Paul Burak presided and spoke of Sr. Pat's many talents and gifts to the par-ish. Many of Sister's favorite religious songs were part of the liturgy. Students shared their talents as readers. And, the Communion Meditation included a Litany of Thanks that focused on all of the things that the school children wanted to thank Sr. Pat for doing for them.

Finally, Mrs. Bernadette Cuttone, school principal, presented Sr. Pat McKee with lovely gifts from the school children and their families, including a portrait that will grace the wall of the school's Learning Media Center. And, Mr. Bernie Murphy, representing Mayor of Orland Park Dan Mc Laughlin, read a declaration proclaiming May 13, 2010, "Sr. Pat McKee Day in Orland Park, Illinois."

Sister Pat McKee has been the backbone of St. Michael School for 36 years. She has seen many students come and go. In fact, she taught many of the parents of current St. Michael students. She will be greatly missed and remembered fondly by all.

Good luck in your future endeavors, Sr. Pat, and God Bless!