Staff Series: Jacinta Black – Elementary Grading

In 1984, while attending Christendom College in Front Royal, VA, I was introduced to Kevin Clark, the son of Dr. Mary Clark, through his future wife, my dormmate, Laura Hibl. Not long after, I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Clark herself, which led to a job opportunity at Seton. Throughout college, I worked for her during the summers, assisting with answer keys, lesson plans, and other tasks.

After graduating, I spent a year in Seton’s grading department before teaching in Gallup, NM, for another year. In 1990, I returned to Seton full-time—and I’ve been here ever since.

The Happiest Times

I am happiest working with the parents, ensuring papers are graded, and working through the challenges that sometimes arise with tests and assignments. I help find lost papers, ensure certain work is graded on time, work with the elementary graders, update answer keys, write new answer keys when needed, and often give small seminars on different aspects of grading, such as grading book reports.

The best part of my job is talking to the parents – helping them through any crisis they may encounter, and hearing those words, “I didn’t understand, but now I do – thank you so much for helping me!” I also enjoy talking with the students, assisting them with their assignments, and helping them understand why an answer is incorrect and how to find the right one.

I live in Woodstock, VA, with my husband and eldest son, who is studying for his Master’s in history. My middle son was in the Marines, is now in the reserves, and lives in VA. My youngest daughter lives and works in Florida. I enjoy engaging with my adult children. I love crocheting, hiking, and being outside. I love to read, and my favorite genre is historical novels.

Have Patience

If I could offer parents one piece of advice, it would be to have patience—with their children and, most importantly, with themselves. Many parents feel they need to get everything right from day one—that every assignment must be completed perfectly and on time. They worry their child’s education will suffer when things don’t go as planned. But this simply isn’t true.

You love your children, and that love is what truly matters. Be patient with yourself as you grow into this new lifestyle alongside them. No one is perfect.

Above all, place your trials, struggles, and worries at the feet of Our Lord, always praying for His guidance and grace in your homeschooling journey.