On a beautifully sunny day, students and teachers, past and present, of St. William School in Janesville crowded into the church for Mass on the morning of May 8.
They gathered to celebrate the teaching anniversaries of Ms. Rosemary Urbanick, 50 years, and Mrs. Kathleen Brennan, 25 years.
After Mass, the two were presented plaques from Principal Diane Rebout and St. Jane Frances de Chantal Pastorate Parochial Vicar Fr. Matthew Pearson.
Mrs. Brennan
Rebout began the presentation by saying, “It’s Teacher Appreciation Week, and I want to thank all of our teachers and staff [gathered] here, but this morning, we’re here to honor two of our staff.
“Mrs. Brennan is celebrating her 25th year with us. She has served as a teacher’s aide, lunchroom service supervisor, and most recently, has been a reading tutor for the Barton Reading Program.
“Her desire to help teach and strengthen the skills of struggling readers has helped numerous students succeed over the last 25 years. She has put her heart into each and every student.
“In addition to being with us, [Mrs. Brennan] is a wife to Bill, a mother of five children, and a grandmother to many.
“[Mrs. Brennan] has decided to retire at the end of the school year. I know all of you will join me in wishing her the best.”
In a brief acceptance speech, Brennan thanked everyone who attended the Mass, the children she’s taught, and her daughters for being there. They attended St. William School when they were in grade school.
Brennan shared that in retirement she’s looking forward to spending time with her 14 grandchildren and other family, and especially her husband who “worked so hard to provide for us all of his life”.
Ms. Urbanick
Principal Rebout introduced Urbanick to much applause and said, “During her career she’s taught several grades and served as principal for five years.
“Rosemary has dedicated herself to our school and is now teaching children and even grandchildren of her former students.
“I know all of us are appreciative of the richness of the opportunity she has provided to all our students throughout the years. Please join me in expressing our appreciation.”
After receiving the plaque, Urbanick said, “When I get up every morning, I thank the Lord for allowing me another day to do what I love, and that is to be with you. I’ve learned from you, and I hope that you’ve learned from me.
“You’ve given me so much joy. My memory box is full — and I said that 25 years ago.”
‘Three cheers for Ms. U’
The accolades continued for Urbanick.
For 50 years of dedication, she was presented a Crystal Apple Award. The Crystal Apple Award is an annual award given to five teachers in southern Wisconsin by WMTV 15 News in Madison.
On the state level, Urbanick was presented a Certificate of Commendation from the state of Wisconsin.
Signed by Gov. Tony Evers, the certificate read, “On behalf of the people of the state of Wisconsin, I congratulate you on the occasion of 50 years of teaching at St. William Catholic School. Your commitment to education has greatly contributed to the wellbeing and quality of life of students and families within your community. I extend my personal thanks to you for the contributions you have made to the state of Wisconsin.”
Arguably though, the largest honor came from the city of Janesville.
At the reception hosted after Mass, Ryan McCue, deputy city manager and father who sent his children to St. William School, presented a proclamation from the city.
McCue read a portion of the proclamation.
He said, “Whereas Ms. Urbanick’s unwavering dedication to education and her students has been recognized with the prestigious 2024 Crystal Apple Award, an honor bestowed upon exemplary educators for their inspiration, leadership, and passion, now therefore be it proclaimed by the city of Janesville that this day, today, Wednesday, May 8, 2024, shall be officially recognized as Ms. Rosemary Urbanick Day.”
McCue shared nice words about Urbanick and finished by saying, “Today is truly your day. On behalf of the city of Janesville, thank you for your dedication to the citizens of Janesville, to the community of St. William, and I have one thing left: Three cheers for Ms. U,” to which children cheered emphatically along with McCue and Urbanick’s colleagues.
The reception was marked by stories, heartfelt embraces, some tears, and many smiles.
At the end of the reception, Urbanick said, “Like I said, when I’m driving to school, I thank the Lord that I’m able to come here and do what I love. “That I’m able to be, or the parents allow me to be, a member of their child’s team. It’s all of us together. We’re trying to help that child be academically, physically, spiritually, and emotionally strong. I’m proud of all they’ve done.
“Whatever they choose to do, I know they’ll do their best.”