Arrupe Jesuit High School is proud to spotlight Maggie Shumway, a dedicated educator who brings passion and an unwavering commitment to her students every day. Originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Maggie’s journey to Arrupe Jesuit has been shaped by her deep love for teaching and a calling to integrate faith into her work.
Maggie earned her Bachelor’s degree in English and Secondary Education from Marquette University, followed by a Master’s in British and American Literature. She began her teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools, where she spent 11 years navigating the challenges of urban education. It was in this demanding environment that she learned the power of resilience, compassion, and the importance of building relationships with her students. However, she also recognized a deep need for faith in her daily work. Inspired by a 60 Minutes segment on Cristo Rey schools, Maggie reached out to Arrupe’s then-assistant principal, Father Menard, convinced that this was where she was meant to be. From the moment she stepped into Arrupe, she felt something different—an overwhelming sense of connection, purpose, and love.
Beyond her high school teaching experience, Maggie has also taught literature and writing courses at the university level and spent summers leading an English language camp in the Spanish countryside. These diverse experiences have reinforced her belief that education is a lifelong journey, not just for students but for educators as well.
Teaching runs in Maggie’s family—both of her parents were high school teachers, and their love for the profession was contagious. She fondly recalls summers spent in Mexico, where her father’s passion for learning extended beyond the classroom. Those experiences not only sparked her interest in Spanish but also instilled in her the value of continuous learning and cultural immersion.
Since joining Arrupe in 2014, Maggie has made a profound impact on the school community. She currently teaches Senior English and Senior Honors English, serves as the English Department Chair, and, new this year, has taken on the role of Strength and Conditioning Coach. Her dedication to students goes beyond academics; she strives to be a mentor, advocate, and source of encouragement.
When asked about her most rewarding moments at Arrupe, Maggie reflects on two powerful experiences. One was the honor of presenting the Pedro Arrupe Award at graduation, a deeply moving experience that allowed her to celebrate a student she greatly admired. Another was an unexpected moment while subbing for a Theology class—sharing a personal story that brought tears to her eyes, only to be met with an entire class of students applauding her in solidarity and kindness. Moments like these affirm her belief in the transformative power of an Arrupe education.
For Maggie, teaching at Arrupe is more than a job—it is a calling. Each day, she finds joy in her students, her colleagues, and the faith-filled community that surrounds her. She feels grateful to be part of a school where love and purpose are woven into everything they do, and she wouldn’t trade it for anything.
