Check Out Sister Maureen Burke’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sister Maureen Burke.

Hi Sister Maureen, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am a member of the religious congregation Sisters of Notre Dame. Our ministry as Sisters is to reflect God’s goodness and historically we have done this primarily through the ministry of Catholic education. I entered the order in 1973 and began teaching in 1978. I spent 2 yers teaching at Elyria Catholic High School, followed by 30 years at Regina High School in south Euclid. I then came to Saint John School in 2010.

I believe Catholic education is a vital ministry of the church. through education we give young people an opportunity to change their lives. Education opens doors for people of all ages.

The mission of Saint John School is to Develop Scholarship ~ Deepen Faith ~ Inspire Leadership.

Saint John School has seen tremendou2 growth over the past 12 years. From an enrolllment of 220 in 2012 to a current enrollment of 648 students. Part of this is due to a relocation of the school from Station AVe to Depot Road in 2013.

Since that move the school has made 4 additions to the physical structure of the building with the latest being an addition of a student center completed in August 2025.

The Saint John School story is one of resilience, determination and a testament to what people can do when they believe in a mission and are determined to not let the mission fail.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No mission worth sustaining is ever smooth. Financial obstacles will always be a challenge for schools both public and private. Catholic schools must deliver a product that attracts families to enroll their children. Maintainting a quality educational product that is mission based is not an easy path. We work with children and families that face many challenges and our role is to accompany them on this journey.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have spent my entire ministry in Catholic education. I believe my ministry and vocation as a Sister of Notre Dame allows me the freedom to be present to people. I am a people person. I like to think that I work collaboratively with a team of leaders.

The Ashtabula community has a long commitment to Catholic education.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
By nature I am a risk taker. Probably the biggest risk in my current role was the decision to move the school from Station Ave to the current location. I think my faith based approach allows risk to be seen in a different light than from a pure business approach.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sjheralds.org
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stjohnashtabula
• LinkedIn: Ashtabula St. John/Sts. John & Paul High School
• Twitter: @StJohnHeralds