Sister Teresa Rebholz

Sister Teresa Rebholz, SDS was taught by Sisters of the Divine Savior as a student at St. Joseph’s Parish School in East Bristol, Wis. She was born one of ten children in nearby Auburndale. She recalls a loving family and hard-working parents. She also recalls during the Depression, the Rebholz family home was destroyed by fire, and she and her sisters stayed with the Salvatorian Sisters for a week until another home was found.

After attending Columbus High School for two years, she entered the SDS Congregation and made first vows in August 1950. Sr. Teresa taught elementary students for 35 years in Wisconsin and Maryland. Much of that time was spent teaching in the Milwaukee Archdiocese, including Mother of Good Counsel School. “I was at Mother of Good Counsel School for sixteen busy and wonderful years where I shared the joys and struggles of students and parents. They taught me much during those years,” she said.

During her first year of teaching, Sr. Teresa had a class of 63 third graders. “I loved it, as my childhood dream of being a teacher and sister was being fulfilled. What joy the lovely stories, poems and art work of my students gave me over the years. Drawing out the talents of so many bright and beautiful children has given me a real sense of accomplishment — not to mention the happiness of helping so many children to a greater knowledge and love of God.” Sr. Teresa also served as a substitute teacher and helped with catechetical programs in various parishes.

She earned a bachelor’s degree at Alverno College and a master’s in education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Sr. Teresa kept all of her class lists from her many years of teaching, and continues to pray for her former students. For years after retiring from active ministry, she tutored elementary students in reading and math.