Valentine’s Day is often considered a holiday for the student body, but some of the John Carroll teachers have their own special celebrations for Valentine’s Day.
While some teachers enjoy time at home with their families, others enjoy an evening out.
School Counselor Jenna Reynolds has a different type of Valentine this year. Mrs. Reynolds is expecting her second baby this March.
She and her husband met during their freshman year at John Carroll. For Valentine’s Day, they have decided to go out to dinner, just the two of them, and send their three-year-old to Mrs. Reynolds’ mother.
Religion Teacher Thomas Vierheller has four kids and will spend his Valentine’s Day with his wife whose birthday happens to fall on February 14. They rotate year-to-year as to which restaurant where they spend their evening.
Science Teacher Shane Lawler is not the biggest fan of Valentine’s Day. He claims this is because “the excitement wore off when I got older.”
Though he does not adore the holiday, he gives all his kids and his girlfriend special cards. He normally hangs out and watches a movie with his girlfriend.
Math Teacher Teressa Pleiss spends her Valentine’s with her husband and three kids. She and her husband have been married for 14 years and have known each other since she was 16. She will give her children their favorite candies for the holiday.
Several teachers shared that their favorite Valentine’s Day they’ve ever had was as simple as a romantic dinner.
Physical Education Teacher Tricia Giuffrida said her favorite Valentine’s Day occurred when she was a freshman in college. “My father sent me flowers. . . It wasn’t something he had ever done before, and it made me feel special and loved.”
Mrs. Giuffrida also said, “Valentine’s Day can be a wonderful celebration of love but holds lofty expectations for people in relationships.”
She added this pressure extends to single people because they believe if they don’t do something, they are “missing out.” Her advice is “whether you have a Valentine or not, focus on the fact that you are surrounded by love every day from the Father who adores you.”