For more than two decades, Ms. Wendi Wiley brought energy, humor, and heart to science classrooms at Archbishop Prendergast and later Bonner & Prendie. Known for her enthusiasm, love of roller coasters, and deep care for students, she inspires students to see that science—and life—is full of possibility.
Q: How did you find your way into teaching?
I enrolled at the University of Pittsburgh as a pre-med student, but changed my mind after taking Calculus 3! I earned a B.S. in Biology, Chemistry, and General Science, and completed a one-year teaching certification after graduating. Later in 2005, I earned my master's in Environmental Education from Arcadia University.
Q: What brought you to Prendie?
Prendie actually found me! In January of 1999, my brother's friend, a Prendie guidance counselor at the time, called me about a long-term sub job. My interview was on Monday, and I showed up to teach on Tuesday. I remember students asking me about a field trip on my first day, and I said I'd check with the other physics teacher. That's when I learned I was the only one!
I never minded going to work, because I knew I would have a great day. The girls were curious, the classrooms were interactive, and the faculty, like Dr. Werts and Pat Citro, were supportive.
Q: What's a favorite memory that stands out from teaching at B&P?
My first all-boys class after the merger was a spirited one! I learned quickly that boys and girls have different learning styles. One day, a student from that class kept interrupting my lesson plan, so I told the class they would have to teach themselves that day by copying the entire chapter. At the end of class, I told them to crumple the paper and throw it at the student responsible, and they all threw their papers at him. The next day, that student apologized—he learned his lesson.
When we combined under one roof, teaching co-ed was new but rewarding. Every year, I was learning right alongside my students.
Q: How did you keep science engaging?
I tied lessons to real life—roller-coaster physics, bowling, and even ad campaigns that explained the science behind seatbelts. When students can see and relate to the science, it sticks.
I encourage students to be open-minded and positive. Some kids learn that lesson, while others push back, but I want the takeaway to be that they can do anything if they work hard enough.
Q: What did you enjoy most about teaching at B&P?
Definitely the people. My colleagues became lifelong friends. I also enjoyed coaching our girls' bowling team for many years, which won four straight Catholic League Championships. That sense of community is something I'll always treasure.
Q: You were also on Wheel of Fortune! What was that like?
So fun! I auditioned in Atlantic City in 2015 and filmed in California on my birthday, January 31, 2016. It was one of the best experiences of my life—even though I didn't win big, I won something and got to spin the wheel!
Q: What message do you hope your B&P students remember that you continue to teach today?
That even when something looks hard at first, anything is possible. That's true in science and in life.
In 2022, Ms. Wiley transferred to teach at Conwell-Eagan in Bucks County, to be closer to home. Though she is missed at B&P, her impact on Catholic education continues!