Biography

About
With more than 30 years of experience in Catholic education, Kate Aceves has dedicated her career to helping students discover their God-given gifts while challenging them to grow academically, personally, and spiritually. She began teaching in 1991 and has taught at the elementary, middle school, and high school levels in a variety of subjects, including English, Social Studies, Religion, Art, Architecture, and Mechanical Drawing. She has also served in several school administrative leadership roles.

Since joining Mater Dei in 2022, Kate has taught English II, English II Honors, AP English Literature and Composition, Credit Recovery, and Summer School. She believes literature provides students with an opportunity to better understand themselves, others, and the world around them while developing the critical thinking, writing, and communication skills that will serve them well beyond high school.

Since 2023, Kate has also served as an AP English Literature Exam Reader, joining educators from across the country in evaluating student essays. This experience provides valuable insight into the AP scoring process and strengthens her ability to prepare students for success in AP English Literature and beyond.

Outside the classroom, Kate serves on the Faculty/Staff Council and moderates the Aviation Club, Diplomacy Club, and Monarch Mastery Club. She previously served as moderator of the Renaissance Club. In her community, she volunteers as a member of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

What I Love About MD
As a graduate of both Catholic elementary and high schools, Kate has experienced firsthand the lasting impact of a faith-filled education. She considers it a privilege to continue that tradition at Mater Dei by helping students grow in knowledge, confidence, compassion, integrity, and faith.

Other Experience
AP English Literature Exam Reader, 2023–Present; Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Volunteer; More than 30 years of experience in Catholic education, including teaching and administrative leadership.

Education: Master’s Degree - University of San Francisco; Bachelor’s Degree - California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona); California Secondary Teaching Credentials in English, Social Studies, and Industrial Arts - UCLA.

Teaching Since: 1991

At MD Since: 2022