August 16, 2023

By Sister Ellen Rose Coughlin, SSJ
Superintendent of Schools

Mrs. Danielle Fitzgerald, St. Bernard’s School Saranac Lake and Mrs. Karlene Gonyeau, St. Mary’s School, Ticonderoga, were recognized for their distinguished service to Catholic School Education at a luncheon hosted by Bishop LaValley on July 6.

Mrs. Fitzgerald has taught at St. Bernard’s School since 2010. In addition to her classroom duties, she has served as the Math Coach since 2019. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Literature and Writing from SUNY Potsdam and a master’s degree in Secondary Education also from SUNY Potsdam.

“Danielle’s dedication to Catholic education and her students is unparalleled,” said Mrs. Andrea Kilbourne-Hill, principal of St. Bernard’s. “She contributes significantly to the school’s Catholic identity and to the promotion of Catholic values within the school, integrating faith into her teaching and daily interactions with her students. Her faith-filled and professional approach has left a positive impact on many of her students. They have gone on to excel in Middle and High School.

“Danielle is a team player who collaborates with her colleagues and demonstrates qualities of service. She is an exceptional teacher who has made a significant impact on her students, colleagues, and the wider school community.”

Mrs. Gonyeau began her teaching career at St. Mary’s School, Ticonderoga in 1987. In her application for a teaching position at St. Mary’s, Karlene noted, “There are many reasons why I would like to teach in a Catholic school. The most important stems from the benefits which I received and acquired through attending Catholic schools all my life.” 

Mrs. Gonyeau was a graduate of St. Mary’s school and received a bachelor’s degree in Education with a concentration in History from Trinity College in Vermont.

For 37 years, Mrs. Gonyeau’s dedication to St. Mary’s school has been unwavering.

“She is known for her dedication and teamwork skills, as well as leadership within the school and parish,” said Sister Sharon Anne Dalton, school principal. “Within our school Karlene has taken leadership roles as vice-principal and mentor of new teachers, leading various diocesan initiatives for professional development, and contributed to the school’s accreditation process.”

Mrs. Fitzgerald and Mrs. Gonyeau were joined at the luncheon by their husbands Brian Fitzgerald and Luke Gonyeau, the principals of their respective schools Mrs. Andrea Kilbourne-Hill and Sister Sharon Anne Dalton, Father Martin Cline, pastor of St. Bernard’s and Sister Ellen Rose Coughlin, SSJ, Superintendent of Schools.