Julia as her favorite children’s book character Junie B. Jones
Ministry: Saint Cecilia School and Academy, St. Louis, Missouri
College: Christian Brothers University
What do you do? My day to day schedule contains a myriad of responsibilities: teaching K-8 Computers, facilitating the 6-8 Library, aiding in Kindergarten and Second Grade, moderating K-8 recess and lunch, attending K-8 fieldtrips, and facilitating our afternoon enrichment and aftercare tutoring programs.
What is the most important “thing,” do you think, that your students/clients/guests need from you?
This year I have had the opportunity to work with three exceptional kindergarten students three days a week. They are quite advanced in reading and math and extremely curious! Recently I have been doing a lot of full day subbing throughout our school, which has caused inconsistency in our enrichment routine. When I see their class in passing, one student in particular will ask “Miss Kueter, are you coming to get me today?”. The need for consistency is crucial even for our youngest students. To keep consistency (even when we can’t have our enrichment time) I strive to check in with these three students during recess, lunch, or other times on days that I am subbing.
Which of the core values (Faith, Community, Service) are most important to you?
I find the core value of community unique to our program and essential to the service that we do. Community for me offers consistency, routine, and support. So much of my service day and week can be dynamic- changing on a day-to-day basis. Having a steady spot to slow down, refuel, and share with others helps to keep me grounded.
Bro. James Miller Community
If you could project ahead a few years and look back to now, how do you think your experiences with those you serve and with the Brothers will have changed you?
I’m quite certain that without serving as a Lasallian Volunteer for two years, I would not be pursuing a career in education. My combined experiences in Browning, MT and St. Louis, MO have been influential in my own personal discernment.
What would you say to a friend from home who questioned why you chose to live with the Brothers?
I would ask this friend why not live with the Brothers? The Christian Brothers are some of the most fascinating and inspiring men I know! They bring wisdom, experience, guidance, support, and lots of entertainment to community life.
Why would you recommend Lasallian Volunteers to a college senior considering volunteering?
If you are looking to do an intentional service year then I would highly suggest the LV program. The support network of the LV cohort, staff, Brothers, alumni, is highly impressive. This support network expands way beyond professional support at your service site. Being valued as a unique individual on his or her own spiritual, vocational, and personal journey is crucial. I never thought that I would build such strong friendships with people who live across the country and only physically connect with for a few days a year.
Why would you recommend that a prospective donor make a contribution to Lasallian Volunteers?
Contributing to the LV program is investing in: the future of our students and clients, the personal and vocational journey of our volunteers, and the continued presence of the Lasallian charism.
How would you like to continue your involvement with the Lasallian family after your time with the Lasallian Volunteers?
Before attending Christian Brothers University the term Lasallian was not a part of my vocabulary. Now it is a phrase I can’t seem to distance myself from. Following my time with the Lasallian Volunteers I plan to return to CBU to pursue my M.A.T. (Masters in the Art of Teaching). Whether or not my vocational journey leads me to a Lasallian school after graduation, I know that being Lasallian will remain core to who I am.