For Jennifer Budzinski, teaching is more than a job—it’s a vocation. As a first-grade teacher at Bishop Baraga Catholic School in Cheboygan, and an alumna of the school, Jennifer feels deeply connected to the faith-filled community that shaped her own life.
“I can’t imagine teaching anywhere else,” she says. “It’s a gift to weave faith into every part of the day—from art to writers’ workshops.”
Her mission is clear: to form not only students’ minds but also their hearts. Every lesson is infused with prayer, joy and reminders of God’s presence. Jennifer’s classroom is a place where faith is lived, and every child is encouraged to grow in holiness and love.
Living the Virtues
Central to Jennifer’s approach is a monthly virtue focus that shapes classroom life. “Having a faith-based classroom changes the way my students learn and the way I teach,” she explains. Students practice kindness, honesty and generosity through words and actions.
Recently, her first graders studied John the Baptist, reflecting on how they can prepare their hearts for Jesus through prayer and service. They sing joyful songs, imagine endings to Bible stories and discover that God’s word is alive and personal.
Jack, one of her students, shares: “I like that she does fun stuff like teaching us songs about Jesus and that she promises to always come to school with a smile.”
Teaching with Joy and Love
Jennifer’s classroom is a place of energy and enthusiasm, where learning and faith go hand in hand. “I want my students to be excited and ready to learn each day,” she says. Jennifer’s motto—Love God, Love Self, Love Others—anchors every lesson.
“I feel so blessed to share my faith with my students,” she says. “It’s about helping them grow not just in knowledge but in love for God and for one another.”
Through example, Jennifer teaches her students that being a good Catholic is about more than memorizing prayers or following rules; it is about living with love, integrity and joy.
Through her dedication, Jennifer inspires not only her students but many others in the school community – parents, colleagues and visitors.
For Jennifer, teaching is a sacred responsibility—forming children into compassionate, joyful followers of Christ.
