In Memoriam: Ms. Pj Plants Seeds With Deep Roots Of Love

The St. Gregory A&M Hovsepian Armenian Day School has a beautiful tradition of celebrating cultures from around the world. From the a-to-z of Armenia to Zimbabwa, the dance, songs and foods of the world filled the hall and parking lot for one evening in May.  A somber note was hit festivities when Mr. Sako Karaoghlanian (2nd grade teacher) shared a very heartfelt reflection (below) about one of the teachers who had passed away earlier this year. Ms. PJ served the Hovsepian school and community for about a decade. With these words the audience learned about a life lived with love for life and the children she taught. By Mr. Karaoghlanian's expressions and the warm reception received by students, teachers and parents alike, it was obvious that Ms. PJ had planted seeds in the souls of this community that will sprout for years to come. May God rest her soul. 

-Fr. Vazken 

Earlier this year, our school community experienced a heartbreaking loss. In April, we said goodbye to a remarkable woman who helped shape the heart of our Hovsepian family — our beloved gardening teacher, Ms. Patricia Johnson, lovingly known to all of us as Ms. PJ.
 
Ms. PJ made a lasting impact on our students, staff, and families. She cared for every child as if they were her own. Through gardening, she taught lessons that reached far beyond planting seeds and growing vegetables. She reminded our students to care for one another, to lead with compassion, and to believe that even small acts of goodness can help change the world.
 
One of the most beautiful things about Ms. PJ was her spirit. No matter what challenges she may have faced, whenever we asked, “How are you, Ms. PJ?” she would always smile and say, “I’m blessed.”

That spirit of positivity, resilience, and love will remain with us always.

Tonight’s Class 2B performance celebrates the contemporary music and culture of the Black American community, while also honoring the strength, courage, compassion, and leadership that Ms. PJ so beautifully embodied throughout her life.
 
Ms. PJ, we love you, we thank you, and you will forever remain a part of our Hovsepian family. You are deeply missed, and tonight, this performance is dedicated to you.

-Baron Sako J. Kaaoghlanian

Secon Grade B Teacher | Athletic Director

St. Gregory A&M Hovsepian School