SCHOOL CLASSROOMS

4th Grade
Teacher: Mrs. Colleen Thiel

am Colleen Thiel, currently, the fourth grade teacher here at OLQP; but just like the weather, wait a little while and it may change.  I have been a teacher at OLQP, on and off, since 2000.  Since starting here, I have moved residence, had two children and switched grade levels three times.  Let’s just say, no moss is gathering under me!  Perhaps, that is why I enjoy teaching so much.  Every day is new and exciting.
I began my professional career in 1994 after graduating from Marquette University with a BA in psychology.  I worked with children and their families as a social worker in a group-home setting and as a Foster Care caseworker in Milwaukee County.  For four years I was employed with La Causa, Inc. located on Milwaukee’s near south side.  I was inspired to become a teacher by the many children I had contact with over the years.  Visiting schools and working with the families, I saw a greater potential to impact the lives of children as a teacher than as a social worker.  In 1998, I returned to school and pursued my teaching certificate through UWM.  Since completing the program, I have not had any doubts that becoming a teacher was one of the best changes I made in my life!