Middle School Grades
Sixth Grade
Sixth Grade begins the middle school Lab Learner program. This year we are using new digital spectrophotometers, oxygen meters, thermometers and balances, which are more sensitive and precise than our older tools. We will also use digital microscopes that can project a slide view on the student chromebooks. In sixth grade students study matter, energy, and earth science topics. Students participate in the school Science Fair and are eligible to participate in the North Museum Science and Engineering Fair. One of the highlights of Sixth Grade is being partnered with our Preschool students as Prayer Pals. Students meet monthly to help with crafts, read stories, and provide a familiar face in the hallway! Sixth grade math concepts include measurement, number sense, operations with fractions, decimals and integers, ratios, and problem solving skills.
Mrs. Patty Fertal, 6th Grade Homeroom,
Middle School Math and Science Teacher
I am thrilled to be a part of the OMPH family. I have been a proud resident of Lancaster County since 1994, with a brief stint in Downingtown, PA. Alongside my supportive husband, Tom, I am a parent to six wonderful children, four of whom have graduated from LCHS. My journey has been diverse, having served in the U.S. Army Reserves for 12 years and earned a degree in Secondary Education in Mathematics from Seton Hill University. My professional experiences include directing a personal home care business, serving as an administrator for residential and educational facilities in Central PA for physically and mentally challenged individuals, and being a dedicated home educator for many years.
My teaching background extends to subjects such as Latin, Math, and Grammar at St. Philomena Academy, 4th grade at Our Lady of the Angels, and directing an OCIA/OCIC program for 15 years.
I also taught 4th grade and MS Science and Math at Resurrection Catholic School. While I have enjoyed diverse professional roles, my heart has always been in education. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to continue learning from my colleagues and students and discovering the unique joys of being a part of OMPH. Working alongside such wonderful people and with such lively families is truly a privilege. Outside of the classroom, my favorite things include family, gaming, a good book, prayer, and the sounds of laughter.
Seventh Grade
Seventh Grade students participate in our school science fair and are eligible to compete in the North Museum Science Fair. Science class focuses on the periodic table and chemistry in the fall and biology in the spring. Seventh Grade math begins with data analysis and probability — students create and analyze various types of graphs used in statistics. Other topics include expressions and equations, percentages, integers, solving equations, and geometry.
Mrs. Teri Neafach, 7th Grade Homeroom,
Middle School ILA Teacher
Mrs. Teri Neafach has been teaching Language Arts for close to twenty-five years. She began teaching at her alma mater, Holy Name High School in Berks County, and then retired from Daniel Boone Area School District to return to Catholic School teaching after the 2020-21 school year. Most recently she taught English at Berks Catholic, and she is thrilled to now be teaching at her parish school. She holds a M.Ed. from Kutztown University in English Education.
Eighth Grade
In science class, the eighth grade students study watersheds and physical science - friction, heat, light, sound, electricity and magnetism. They will also do some dissection when we study body systems. Participation in science fair is optional for eighth graders. Eighth Grade math students may take either pre-algebra or Algebra 1.
Mrs. Melanie Lentz, 8th Grade Homeroom,
Middle School Religion Teacher
Hello, I am Melanie Lentz and I am excited to be joining OMPH this school year. I earned my B.S. in Elementary Education and Early Childhood from York College of Pennsylvania. I have been teaching in the Diocese of Harrisburg for the past 7 years where I have served in many different teaching roles. I was born in Santa Ana, California where I attended 12 years of Catholic school. I currently live in York with my husband and attend St. Joseph’s Church. My daughter is a pharmacist and my son troubleshoots computer and robotics systems in warehouses throughout the United States. My favorite place is the beach. I love to share my knowledge and experiences with others. My mission is to create a positive and welcoming classroom environment where all students can focus on deepening their understanding of Catholic beliefs and practices, can foster a personal relationship with God, and can apply their faith to daily life. I’m also delighted to be teaching Computers and Technology to students grades K to 8. I love to develop personal connections with the students to help them achieve academic success in all of their classes through the responsible use of technology.
Mr. Tom Błaszczyk, Middle School History teacher
Hello, my name is Thomas Blaszczyk. I recently retired in 2022 from Lancaster Catholic High School after 26 years. During my tenure, I taught United States history, sociology, and criminal justice. I also was the head varsity wrestling coach for over 20 years, and eventually ended my coaching career as a volunteer assistant for 3 years. I hold an Associate Degree in Law Enforcement and Administration from Camden County College, a BSE in Social Studies from Millersville University, with a minor in sociology. After 2 years of being retired, I realized retirement was not for me. I still felt like I was able to contribute back into Catholic education. After all these years, I feel so blessed that I can talk about my faith in class freely. I spent the 2024-2025 school year teaching 5th grade at Resurrection Catholic School in Lancaster, but sadly the school closed in June. As we know, God has plans for us that we don’t know about until they happen. He calls, we answer. OMPH was where He sent me, and I could not be happier. I am excited to begin my new position as the middle school social studies teacher!