Meet The Teachers

Hello St. Dorothy Families and Students,

My name is Joanne Dougherty, and I am one of the preschool teachers at St. Dorothy Preschool. As a lifelong member of the St. Dorothy Community, it is a true blessing to teach at the school where my own educational journey began. I am a proud graduate of St. Dorothy School and Cardinal O'Hara High School.

After high school, I attended Delaware County Community College while working part-time and earned an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts in August 2005. I later continued my education at Pennsylvania State University, where I received a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies in May 2018. In May 2021, I earned a Master of Science in Education (Pre-K through Fourth Grade) from Gwynedd Mercy University.

I have 25 years of experience working with children, including the past 11 years at St. Dorothy School. During my first four years, I served as an instructional aide in preschool, kindergarten, first grade, and second grade. For the past seven years, I have had the privilege of teaching our Preschool Three students. Watching young children learn, grow, and develop confidence each day is one of the most rewarding parts of my career. I truly love being part of the St. Dorothy family and feel I have come full circle—beginning my Catholic school education here and now helping to educate the next generation of children in the community where I grew up.

When I'm not in the classroom, I enjoy watching college football—especially cheering on Penn State—reading, spending time at the shore, and making memories with my family and friends. I am one of three children, and my younger brothers and I all share the distinction of graduating from St. Dorothy School, Cardinal O'Hara High School, and Pennsylvania State University. I am also a proud aunt to my wonderful niece and nephews: Anna Rose, Joey V., Jake, and Joey B.

I look forward to partnering with you to make your child's preschool experience a joyful, faith-filled, and memorable beginning to their educational journey.  We are going to have a great year.