In the latest edition of the Arrupe Faculty Spotlight, we are excited to feature John Micich, an educator who has passionately shaped young minds at Arrupe Jesuit. With his infectious enthusiasm and a knack for adding humor to every encounter, John continues to serve as a guiding light, nurturing students' intellects and spirits with his wisdom and warmth.
Born and raised in the heart of "The Hill," the Italian neighborhood of St. Louis, Missouri, John's formative years were steeped in the rich tapestry of community, culture, and family values. It was here, amidst the cobblestone streets and bustling markets, that he developed a deep appreciation for storytelling and the power of language. John's educational journey led him to the University of Miami, where he pursued a double major in Motion Pictures and Creative Writing. It was during his time at Miami that he honed his craft as a wordsmith and storyteller, laying the foundation for his future endeavors in education.
John's path to Arrupe Jesuit High School was paved with meaningful experiences and pivotal moments that shaped his personal and professional growth. A Jesuit education at St. Louis University High instilled in him the values of justice, compassion, and service – principles that would guide his journey as an educator. His transformative year as an Alum Service Corps volunteer at Arrupe Jesuit deepened his commitment to the Grad at Grad values and ignited his passion for making a difference in the lives of others. It was here, amidst the chaos of a bustling gymnasium, that a simple yet profound lesson from Fr. Gary Menard SJ – "never turn your back on the ocean" – resonated deeply, reminding John of the importance of staying vigilant and present in the face of challenges.
Driven by a desire to inspire the next generation of learners, John found his calling in education, drawn to the transformative power of literature and the opportunity to foster meaningful connections with students. Inspired by his 11th-grade English teacher, James Raterman, John embarked on a career dedicated to creating engaging and dynamic learning environments where literature becomes a lively conversation rather than just an academic exercise.
At Arrupe Jesuit, John serves as a beacon of creativity and innovation, leading 9th and 12th-grade English classes with passion and purpose. As the moderator of the Atticus Literary & Arts Magazine and the Pedro Arrupe Writing Challenge, he cultivates a culture of creativity and expression, empowering students to unleash their imagination and share their voices with the world. 2023-24 marks John's tenth year at Arrupe Jesuit High School, a milestone testament to his unwavering commitment to the school's mission and values. Through his decade of service, John has left an indelible mark on the Arrupe community, touching the lives of countless students with his wisdom, humor, and genuine compassion.
Amidst the multitude of memorable moments at Arrupe Jesuit every year, one stands out for John: the annual Baccalaureate Mass. Witnessing the overflowing pride and joy of families as they celebrate their graduates is a powerful reminder of the profound impact of education and the importance of community support. Throughout his journey, John has been guided and inspired by mentors and colleagues who have shaped his path and fueled his passion for education. From the mentorship of Megan Turilli and Barb Fuchs to the invaluable insights of Matt Paradise, John's journey is a testament to the power of collaboration, support, and shared dedication to student success.
As he reflects on his decade of service at Arrupe Jesuit High School, John remains steadfast in his commitment to empowering students, igniting their curiosity, and instilling in them a lifelong love for learning. With his infectious enthusiasm and unwavering dedication, John Micich continues to illuminate minds and hearts, leaving an enduring legacy of inspiration and excellence at Arrupe Jesuit.
