Joanna Loechel

For eighteen years, Mrs. Loechel taught English at Newport Central Catholic High School (NCC). For the last nine of those eighteen years, she taught Advanced Placement (AP) English and also served as the school’s Assistant Principal. Throughout her time at NCC, Mrs. Loechel was heavily involved in the life of the school and was well-respected by her students and their parents. With a passion for education and teenagers, Mrs. Loechel brings excitement and enthusiasm to the classroom, and while not every student may become passionate about the English language, they certainly will develop a better appreciation of our language. With a heavy focus on writing, Mrs. Loechel’s AP student score average was consistently higher than both the state and worldwide averages. 

When asked about teaching, Mrs. Loechel said, “Education is my calling; it’s where God wants me to be. In order to best serve my students, it is important not only to push them at their highest levels but to also develop a strong relationship with each student with mutual respect on both sides. And, while the students and I can accomplish much through our teamwork and partnership, we are so much more effective when the students’ parents are involved. To that end, I welcome a partnership with not only the students but also their parents.”  This connection to her students is evidenced by Mrs. Loechel’s receipt of a “University of Kentucky Teacher Who Made a Difference” award in 2015. “I was humbled to receive that award but also proud that I could be a meaningful part of the life of one of my students.”