This year we are blessed to have some new faces on the Oratory Prep campus, not only with students but new faculty as well. One of these new teachers is Mrs. Bajkowski, and I was able to ask her a few questions to introduce her to her new OP family. 

• Where are you originally from?
  • I was born in Newark and was raised in Belleville, NJ.
• What college did you go to?
  • I earned a B.A. in Psychology and Education at Kean University.
  • I earned a MA.E in Administration and Supervision at Seton Hall University. 
• What was your favorite quarantine activity?
  • My favorite activity during quarantine was slowing down and really enjoying Spring. By the time Spring began I was already in a “new normal” routine with the classes  I taught, so in the late afternoon there was time to take a walk, sit on our deck,  and really appreciate the beauty of the changing seasons. There were no after school sports, meetings, or other things to rush off to do, so there was time to appreciate the things I so often take for granted. 
• Where did you work before coming to Oratory?
  • Before starting at Oratory Prep this year I worked at Trinity Academy in Caldwell.
  • I served as a Teacher, Assistant Principal, and Tuition Manager. 
  • Prior to that, I was at Saint Peter School in Belleville where I taught and was
  • an Assistant Principal. Saint Peter School is also the elementary school I attended as a child.
• What is your favorite food?
  • My favorite meal is called Meat Pie.  It is a simple meal, but one that my family has been sharing for years.  My mother told me it was a “depression meal.”  Her father was a butcher and the family knew what a blessing it was that he did not lose his job during that time and that they were able to have meat on the table. Whenever I am really missing my mom or other loved ones who have gone before me, I make that meal and the memories bring me peace and comfort. I am also not really a great cook, and this very simple recipe is one that  I can manage! 
• What is your favorite part about teaching religion?
  • Although I have taught every subject, religion has always been my favorite.  I am blessed to be able to share with others such an important part of who I am and who God wants me to be.   Sharing His Word, the history of our Church, and encouraging others to answer God’s call in their lives brings me great joy and fills me with hope.  
• How has your experience at Oratory been so far?
  • I feel truly blessed to call Oratory Prep home now.  Change is always challenging, but everyone here has really been so kind and generous in sharing their time and talents. The welcome has been wonderful, and I am excited to be here and to grow in my faith, and love of God.