8th Grade

In eighth grade, the focus is on preparing our students for the challenges of high school.  When our students leave SVDP, we want them to be ready socially, academically and spiritually for whatever comes their way. 

Classroom Saint: St. John Paul II

Education: BA and Master of Arts from University of
St. Thomas

Began Teaching In: 2014

Been at SVDP Since: 2018

Roles at SVDP: Eighth Grade Social Studies and Homeroom Teacher

Favorites: Target, Amazon, Caribou, Starbucks






E-mail Miss Kocourek

Classroom Saint: St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Education: BA University of MN Duluth, Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from University of St. Thomas

Began Teaching: 2009 

Been at SVDP Since: 2021

Roles at SVDP:  Seventh & Eighth Language Arts & Eighth Grade Literature & Homeroom

Favorites: Target, Barnes and Noble 

I love teaching language arts because I can help my students learn how to express themselves through written and verbal communication.  I love helping them find their own voices and learning how to better express themselves through print and oral language. I love teaching literature because I LOVE to read and to me there is nothing better than helping my students find their own love of reading no matter what genre it might be.  I have wanted to be a teacher since I was three years old (my mom has a letter to prove it!).  When people ask if you had your dream job, what would you be doing...I am so blessed to be able to answer that I already have my dream job! 

E-mail Mrs. Svihel