Andria DiBacco, a 2007 graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School, will tell you that certain high school classes and experiences can chart a student’s path to a future professional career.
After graduation, she attended John Carroll University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Then, she decided that she wanted to return to her hometown to be closer to her family. She had no idea what type of career she wanted to pursue, but she knew she wanted to help her community. She enrolled at Youngstown State where she received her Master’s degree in Special Education. Additionally, she became certified in Autism and Related Disabilities.
For the past six years, Andria has been teaching students with moderate to intense needs throughout the Mahoning Valley. She has connected with students of all ages and has developed friendships with parents of her students. She takes great pride in watching her students succeed academically and reach their individualized goals. “My classroom is self-contained; my students are with me all day, focusing not only on academics, but life and prevocational skills.”
Andria likes to make learning fun and hands-on. She has created a classroom “store” where students can purchase items with currency they have earned. Her classroom also has a kitchen, where the students learn basic safety lessons as well as the joy of cooking each Friday.
Andria takes the time to get to know each student individually while focusing on his or her strengths and interests. Above all, she loves teaching her students kindness. She is an advocate for them and believes in inclusion for all. “Everyone deserves an education regardless of how you learn”.
Andria thanks Mrs. Trewella and her Christian Service class at Mooney for opening her eyes to service. Her time volunteering at Potential Development and later interactions with her classmates were especially rewarding and helpful. She is grateful for her Catholic education and thanks her parents for providing it. Some of her fondest memories include the car rides to school with her older brother Brian ‘05 and her neighbors, school dances, and the football team becoming state champions her sophomore and senior years.
Andria currently resides in Boardman with her fiancé Frank and future stepdaughter Adelynn. She is looking forward to their Pittsburgh wedding this October and building a loving life together. She is excited to have four Mooney alumnae standing by her side as bridesmaids.
Andria enjoys attending the MVR Bocce Social every summer to support Mooney, play bocce, and reconnect with other Mooney alum.
Thank you to Andria and all the educators in our Mooney Family, who provide us with support, guidance, and precious life lessons.