‘Norm’ retires after over 40 years of dedication to students at McNicholas

May 21, 2021

After 45 years of service, Mr. John Norman taught his last class at McNicholas High School and exited the school building amidst the cheering of students and staff.

Mr. Norman has shared the joy of the Gospel with generations of students and has modeled active discipleship in and out of the classroom. “Norm,” as he is affectionately called by students and colleagues, was instrumental in developing a culture of service at McNick, particularly in his role establishing and developing the Appalachia Retreat, the Louisiana Habitat for Humanity Service Retreat, and the Nicaragua Immersion Trip.

Norm is known for creatively and consistently re-thinking his teaching, bringing a sense of peace to the halls at McNick, and for ‘squeezing the juice’ out of life. Norm has impacted countless lives at McNicholas and will be sorely missed.

We wish him a retirement full of peaceful bike rides, beautiful sunrises, and blessings beyond measure.

Mr. Norman wanted to share this message:

As I pack up my treasured books by John of the Cross, Teresa of Calcutta, Francis of Assisi, Pope Francis, Thomas Merton, Dorothy Day and many more, I am grateful for their influence on my journey. These holy companions, Saints and “saints,” have shared their lives and wisdom with me.

And over these many years I have been blessed to be around the McNicholas community of “saints,” each inspiring me in unique ways, with enthusiasm, spirit, wisdom, laughter, and love. I am so grateful for the Sisters of St. Joseph, who invited me into this community, my second family. And I am grateful for my wife, Diane, and our children with whom I have been so blessed.

To the McNicholas parents, it has been my joy and privilege to walk with your children. THANK YOU. To all of my colleagues, sharing this journey with you has been a blessing. THANK YOU. And to all my students, past and present, THANK YOU for sharing your lives with me as we walk toward FULL STATURE IN CHRIST.

Together in Christ,
All My Love,
John Norman

Students cheer for Mr. John Norman as he retires from McNicholas after 45 years of service.

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