July 17, 2024

By Sister Ellen Rose Coughlin, SSJ
Superintendent of Schools

Mrs. Ashley Barr, a teacher at St. James School in Gouverneur, was recognized for her distinguished service to Catholic School Education at a luncheon hosted by Bishop Terry R. LaValley on July 2.

Barr has taught at St. James School since 2013. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a Master of Science in Education with a major in Curriculum and Instruction from SUNY Potsdam. Barr is certified in both Early Childhood Education, birth – grade 2 and Childhood Education grades 1-6.

In addition to her classroom duties, Barr is the vice-principal and literacy coach. She is the yearbook coordinator, plans and implements the annual 5K Run/Walk event and routinely mentors new faculty/staff that join the school community.

Barr is recognized as a highly effective teacher, providing the perfect balance of instruction, nurturing and classroom management. She embraces and supports the Catholic faith. As noted by Mrs. Laurel Bartholomew, school principal, Barr “takes personal responsibility for helping her students grow in their relationship with Jesus.”

“While Mrs. Barr’s teaching at St. James is highly impressive, her dedication to our school beyond her workday is equally impressive,” said Bartholomew. “Mrs. Barr is a tireless volunteer at our school. She regularly attends our Parent-Teacher meetings, advocating for the needs of our students, teachers, and families. She is an active volunteer at all school fundraising events.”

Barr was joined at the luncheon, hosted by Bishop LaValley, by Father James Seymour, pastor of St. James Church, Bartholomew, Msgr. Robert H. Aucoin, vicar for Education, Sister Ellen Rose Coughlin, SSJ, superintendent of Schools and Mrs. Karen Donahue, assistant superintendent of Schools.

Ashley Barr, front left, a teacher at St. James School in Gouverneur, was awarded the diocesan Distinguished Teacher Award during a luncheon at Bishop Terry R. LaValley’s residence on July 2. Pictured with Barr are, front row, Laurel Bartholomew, St. James School principal, middle row, Assistant Superintendent of Schools Karen Donahue, Superintendent of schools Sister Ellen Rose Coughlin, SSJ, back row, Father James Seymour, pastor of St. James Church, Bishop LaValley, and Msgr.  Robert H. Aucoin, vicar for Education.