Corpus Christi School Principal Paola Sessarego—who took over the position on Monday, July 1, from Suzanne Stewart Duffy as she retired—answered questions about her history teaching, her goals while in the role and more.
How long have you been teaching? How long have you been at Corpus Christi School?
I’ve been teaching for almost 35 years—all of which have been in Catholic schools. I spent 25 years at Saint Monica Prep in Santa Monica and joined the faculty at Corpus Christi School nine years ago as a fourth-grade teacher. I went on to become the eighth-grade teacher and vice principal.
What is your background?
I was born in Brazil, but my parents are originally from Genova, Italy. We briefly moved back to Italy for three years, but returned to San Paulo, Brazil, for the remainder of my childhood. My brother and I spoke Italian at home, Portuguese when out in Brazil and English at the American School we attended in Brazil.
I played tennis for Brazil’s national team and was offered a scholarship to play tennis at USC. I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. I graduated with a B.A. in teacher education from USC and received my M.A. in education from USC as well.
What are your goals as the new principal of Corpus Christi School?
My top priority as principal is to make sure that we have a strong curriculum and that our students are well prepared for high school. I also want to ensure we care for our students’ social and emotional needs.
Most importantly, we must continue to partner with our parents to instill good values in our students. We want Corpus graduates to go out into the world and be kind, caring individuals with a strong sense of community.
How is the Pacific Palisades community integral to your mission at Corpus Christi School?
Everyone knows everyone in the Palisades. Our mission is to have a tight-knit community that is there for each other. A community where when someone is in need, we are all there to support one another. We are purposeful in instilling solid values and helping students create a strong community.
The Palisades is unique because most of the students who come to our school live here. Many of them even walk to school. There is an existing sense of community already, but we want to help teach our students how to make a difference and help others.
Why do you think parents in the community should consider Corpus Christi School for their children?
I think Corpus Christi School is a little jewel in the Palisades. We provide a vital education and strong sense of community. This is what we strive for.
People are coming together to help each other and graduating students who truly will make a difference in the world. I want all of our students to work to make their community a better place.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Being from Brazil, I love watching soccer, especially the World Cup. I love playing pickleball. We also have season USC football tickets. I’m a die-hard fan. Fight on!
Corpus Christi School, located at 890 Toyopa Drive, is a kindergarten through eighth-grade co-ed Catholic school. The school’s academic approach “develops engaged minds, cultivates work ethic and fosters a lifelong love of learning,” according to its website.
“We encourage curiosity, critical thinking and rigorous analysis,” the website continued. “Not only do our students master subject matter, but they graduate possessing the skills to succeed in high school and beyond.”
For more information, visit corpuschristi-school.com.
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