An Interview with Mrs. Diane Blanco

This interview was initially published on the January 24, 2013 edition of the School Newsletter.

Q- What was Holy Rosary School like when you first joined the faculty? Has it really been thirty years?

Holy Rosary School was much smaller thirty years ago! We were a single grade school with about fifteen staff members, all of whom were able to sit around the table in our lunchroom for teacher meetings. I cannot believe it has been thirty years since I began my teaching career, all in grade one; I am a lifelong member of Holy Rosary Parish and was thrilled to be hired at the school. At the time, I was a proud Husky graduate form UW and a newlywed of just four months!

Q- Who was the pastor and principal at that time? Were the Dominican nuns still teaching in the school?

Father James Mallahan was our dear pastor at the time. He was a lovely man, cherished by all, who married my husband and I and baptized our two daughters. I was saddened yet honored to attend the celebration of his life at his funeral Mass. Our principal when I started was Mr. Patrick Paylow, who led HR for two years. There were five nuns on our staff when I began teaching, all deeply devoted models of our faith, who were always present to impart the Catholic foundation and tradition.

Q- What has changed in teaching 1st Graders over the years?

The biggest change has probably been the addition of new technology. Thirty years ago, I was responsible for operating the film projector, a tape recorder and the record player.

Q- You show by your teaching a deep love of your profession, especially the children, how do you retain such a fresh and positive attitude?

It must be the work of the Holy Spirit!

Q- Holy Rosary is so blessed to have such a high number of faculty and staff that have served the school for many years-of the present faculty, who are some that joined you in your early years here?

In my early years, I worked with Maggie Judd, Margaret Whetham, and Sue Harris, but as parents! Each of these women had darling first graders, and were active participants in our Parent’s Club and Parish before they joined our school staff.

Q- What do you think makes Holy Rosary School such a special place? What are your fondest memories?

Holy Rosary Parish and School have always been a special place, my home. I have a lifetime of beautiful memories, but most fondly of the many, many wonderful families that have been a part of our community over the years. It is especially fun to share in their lives, and now run into them in and around West Seattle. It is my sincere pleasure to serve our Holy Rosary community for all of these years. God has blessed me greatly.

Back to the Staff & Faculty Page