For over two decades, Señor Salomon has been a beloved and important part of the St. X community. His journey as a teacher began in his early childhood when he would play “school” with his siblings and neighbors, assigning them roles and crafting lessons with the enthusiasm and creativity of a born educator. This passion for teaching carried through to his high school years, where he volunteered to tutor classmates and ventured into communities to teach religious education.
Señor Salomon’s dedication to teaching was not just a career but a calling. He often said, “Teaching is gratifying,” and his joy in helping students learn was evident in every lesson he taught.
Throughout his teaching journey, Señor Salomon created countless memorable moments. One of the most cherished traditions he helped proctor was the Friday afternoon basketball games. Almost every week, he and a group of students and colleagues would stay after school for friendly yet competitive matches. These games were more than just physical exercise; they were opportunities to bond, and to see students outside the classroom, striving and succeeding in new ways.
His impact wasn’t confined to the court or classroom. Señor Salomon was deeply committed to community service, a commitment recognized when he was awarded the Community Service Award. He often quoted Pope Francis, saying, “Whoever does not live to serve, does not serve to live.” This philosophy guided his actions and inspired his students to find meaning through service in their own lives.
As he prepares to retire, Señor Salomon reflected on the legacy he hopes to leave behind. He wants his students to remember the sense of self-realization he tried to give them. He made it a point to learn every student’s name, often using their Spanish names to build a personal connection, making each student feel seen and valued. This practice, he believed, helped form lasting relationships and fostered an environment of mutual respect and acceptance.
Perhaps his most beloved legacy is the Wednesday Rosary prayer circle he initiated. What began as a small club grew into a cherished tradition, where students and staff came together to pray for one another and the broader community. Discovering that this practice had roots in the history of the Xaverian Brothers in Louisville motivated him to maintain this beautiful Catholic tradition, bringing comfort and unity to all who participated.
“I will miss being present at the school,” Salomon said. “ I entered the building every day and I felt that rush of energy through my being, ready to deliver whatever life would throw at me that day. I will miss my colleagues with whom I shared moments of laughter and personal experiences. I will miss the school gatherings where you saw the passion of students and teachers alike.”
