Faculty Spotlight Casey Sisk
After completing my teaching degree, I taught for a year for the Diocese of Prince George at Notre Dame in Dawson Creek to try a new community. I returned to CISVA and TOCed for Star of the Sea and Cloverdale Catholic. I ended up at St. Patrick's Maple Ridge for a short time to cover a leave teaching Christian Education and then went to St. Matthew's. Here I have taught Grade 4, 7, Kindergarten, and now am Vice Principal and one of two Inclusive Education Teachers.
1. What first inspired you to become a teacher, and what continues to inspire you today?
Like many teachers, I was first inspired by the great teachers I had in my own life. They made learning feel exciting and alive, and I wanted to do the same for others. What continues to inspire me today is finding new ways to engage students, helping them discover joy in learning and watching those “aha!” moments unfold.
2. What do you love most about teaching in a Catholic school community?
I love that I get to bring my whole self to the classroom, faith included. Being able to share prayer, talk openly about our faith, and walk with students in their spiritual journey makes teaching here so meaningful. The sense of community- students, staff, and families all connected is something truly special.
3. Can you share a memorable moment with your students that reminded you why you love teaching?
There had been a loss in our school community, and as a whole school we gathered in the church to pray with the family for a special prayer service. Afterward as we were filing out of the church, I noticed a student who- I'll admit, often challenged me- step away from the class. I almost went to redirect them, but then I saw them walk up to the grieving family, shake their hands, and quietly offer condolences. It was incredibly touching. Moments like that remind me that what we’re doing goes far beyond academics. Watching kindness and compassion bloom in our students is the most rewarding part of this vocation.
4. How do you bring faith and values into everyday classroom life?
A lot of the time, it happens naturally. In my role as an Inclusive Education Teacher, I’m not often in front of a large class as I usually work one-on-one or in small groups. That gives me the chance to bring faith into personal moments, whether it’s pausing to pray with a student, sharing a story from my own faith life, or encouraging them to see God in the little victories.
5. What do you think makes your school special for both students and families?
At St. Matthew’s, we are blessed with a vibrant, welcoming community. Our staff is supportive and dedicated, and we genuinely enjoy working together. That teamwork and connection naturally extends to our students and families, creating an environment that feels warm and inclusive. There’s a real sense that everyone has a place here. Whether it’s in the classroom, on the field, or at parish events St. Matthew’s is more than just a school, but a community our families are proud of.
6. If your students could describe you in three words, what do you think they’d say?
I work mostly with intermediate students so they would probably say something sassy but (I hope) something along the lines of compassionate, direct, and caffeine-dependent.
7. What do you hope students will carry with them long after they’ve left your classroom?
I hope they leave with a love of learning that lasts a lifetime, and a sense of confidence in themselves and their faith that helps guide them through whatever comes their way.
8. How do you see parents and teachers working together to help students flourish?
Open and honest communication is everything. When parents and teachers work as a team sharing successes, challenges, and hopes we’re able to surround students with the support they need to thrive.
9. What advice would you give to someone considering teaching at a CISVA school?
Do it! Start by TOCing to get a feel for different communities and find a school that fits what you are looking for. It’s a rewarding experience to work in a place where you can build strong connections, grow alongside colleagues, and know you’re part of something bigger than just your own classroom.
10. When you think of your students’ future, what excites you most about being part of their journey?
I hope that when my students look back, they remember feeling safe, heard, and valued—and that they carry fond memories of school. Being even a small part of helping them grow into thoughtful, faith-filled saints in training is what excites me most.