Paula Semmel

Article by Lucy Brubaker and Sydney Gebhardt, News Editors

June 4, 2021

Paula Semmel has been working in Catasauqua for the last 17 years. She began teaching here as a long-term sub in 1985. From 1986-1996, she taught in the Parkland School District in a full-time teaching position. Semmel decided to stay home with her children for seven years following her time at Parkland, during which she subbed in Palmerton for a year as a long-term sub. In 2003, she returned to Catty as a chemistry teacher.

Mrs. Semmel loved getting to know her students throughout her 20+ years of teaching. When asked about her favorite thing about working at Catasauqua she said, “You can really get to know your students here and even though there have been challenges over the years, it's been very rewarding. I also work with a fantastic, supportive staff. I'm truly going to miss them.”

After retirement, Semmel plans to travel and as soon as it is safe to do so. She mentioned she also has a lot of interests and hobbies that she’s looking forward to pursuing.

Semmel will miss the bonds that she has formed with students and staff.

“I just want to say how much the staff and students have meant to me over the years,” said Semmel. “I've been privileged to have formed so many friendships that mean the world to me. And, of course, remember, there's no crying in chemistry.”