MINISTRY SPOTLIGHT: Sister Clara Esker
Director of Learning Center/Teacher
Moreland-Notre Dame Elementary School, Watsonville, California

Bio Box
Birthplace: Teutopolis, Illinois
Family background:  German ancestry on both sides of family; 5th daughter out of six children; 4 sisters and 1 brother
Quote to live by: “For you are my rock, my fortress; for the sake of your name guide me, lead me!” Psalm 31:3
Your idea of a perfect day would be…spent up in the mountains near Yosemite, sitting by the banks of the rushing river, listening to classical music and taking in the wonders of nature.
Living person you most admire: My 95-year-old mother. She instilled in me the concept of hard work, never give up, and always be congenial.
Last book you read: Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, An American Slave

Q. What does your role as director of the Learning Center and teacher involve?

A. When I first began this ministry, I primarily worked with students (K-8) who were having difficulty in learning math, reading, English and/or language problems. I worked with them in small groups or individually. Today, it has changed to before and after school help and teaching writing skills in grades 1-8. I also teach religion to 6th grade and English/spelling to 8th grade.

Q. How do you extend the charism through your ministry?

A. I strive to educate the whole person and instill in my students a sense of peace and oneness.

Q. Name one thing about your ministry people might not know.

A. I am a Eucharistic minister for school liturgies. I am also the #1 fan of the students’ sports programs.

Q. What goal(s) do you have for the future?

A. I would like to see the learning center introduce new programs for the gifted students.

Q. What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?

A. When students excel in writing, especially when a student’s writing piece gets published.

Q. What is the most fulfilling aspect of your ministry?

A. When parents and former students return to share with me their successes in high school and college. Sometimes the students tell me that they are able to help others with their writing skills.

Q. How do you inspire hope to those you minister to?

A. By being patient and always encouraging them to persevere – to never give up.