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December 16, 2023

Newest Work of Heart Recipients Call Bishop Dunne Catholic School Home


Congratulations to Julie Coxe and Daniel Harrelson, our newest Work of Heart recipients from Bishop Dunne Catholic School.

Julie, a middle school English and literature teacher, truly lives out Christ’s command to love our neighbors as ourselves. Coworkers have said the following about Julie:

“This semester, we’ve had two middle school English teachers who have taken FMLA leave to deal with sick family members and Julie not only has stepped in as a substitute for some of these classes, but she also has prepared lesson plans, made copies, and helped the other subs with getting these students through the rest of the semester.

“Julie begins each class period with a quiet prayer time when students can share their personal concerns, requests, and intentions for the class. She then repeats those concerns and intentions as they begin the class. The impact on students of starting the class by voicing intentions and by acknowledging their concerns is noticeable. They respond by sharing stresses and problems, and everyone has the opportunity to spend a few quiet moments in contemplation.

“Julie is a wonderful teacher, a good friend, and a stalwart member of our school community. The English department could not have gotten through this year without the time she has given to make sure that all students had what they need to succeed.“ 

Daniel, the school’s band director, embodies what being a teacher is. His desire is to see the students he teaches grow into people of faith that are good citizens. The following has been said about Daniel by coworkers:

“Daniel could settle for being one of the better band directors in DFW private schools, but that would cause the students to plateau. That’s not how he works. He continues to push his students to the next level. That’s why the Bishop Dunne Advanced Band is going to play at Carnegie Hall.

“Behind the scenes, when nobody is watching, Daniel constantly evaluates his own actions. He asks himself if his actions were Christ-like. He is deeply concerned about his treatment of others and if he did the right thing. Thats not just surface level either.

“Does he stand up for others when nobody else is? Is he respectful enough to others when there is a disagreement? These are all questions he asks himself, because he knows that his continued growth as a Christian is going to affect everyone around him.“

To nominate a full-time employee at a Catholic school in the Diocese of Dallas, visit https://www.catholicfoundation.com/…/work-of-heart-award/