Mrs. Mary Griffin has taught at St Theresa Catholic school for over 21 years! Not only has she shared her wisdom and love of learning with the many children she has taught over the years, she has shared her faith, personal strength and her thoughtful perspective on life. Just a few years ago, Mary underwent a kidney transplant that ultimately saved her life. In the years leading up to her transplant, Mary underwent dialysis at night while maintaining her daily workload at St. Theresa as a highly-esteemed and beloved 7th grade teacher. Students have watched Mary persevere through serious health issues with courage and faith, all the while inspiring students to become better and more spiritual in their unique journeys . Regardless of what she is teaching, her passion, faith, and love for her students are the constants. St. Theresa has a long standing reputation in the city for having the best Junior high, centered on preparing students spiritually, emotionally and academically. Mary has played an integral role in creating this magic and preparing students to be successful in high school and life beyond.
Mary was the
Arcadia News “Teachers We Love” Award
recipient in 2015 and has received the Xavier Golden Gator Award (Excellence in Teaching) for many years. She worked in upper management for Harkins Theatres for 20 years before starting her career in teaching. She taught one year in the Scottsdale Public Schools before starting at St. Theresa 21 years ago. She is the STCS NJHS founder and faculty advisor since its inception in 2008. She was also on the Diocesan Mathematics Curriculum Committee. Mrs. Griffin likes to ride her bike between 20- 35 miles a week when temperatures permit. She enjoys watching movies, spending time with her husband, reading books and going to the mountains. Mrs. Griffin and her husband have one daughter who is an interior designer and lives in Seattle.
