Academics

Our Faculty

Xaverian teachers serve as much more than teachers; they are mentors - deep listeners and keen observers who get to know and appreciate each student.

As any explorer will tell you, having an experienced guide will dramatically increase one’s chances of success. Xaverian teachers, of which more than 95% have advanced degrees, help students see the obstacles as well as the opportunities ahead, advising them on the best course based on their unique abilities. And Xaverian teachers genuinely know where the students are coming from because many of them were once Xaverian students themselves.

Bright and energetic, caring and accessible, Xaverian teachers are committed to their students’ success.

Faculty Directory

Mrs. Laura Sarkar

Admissions Assistant

York University - B.A.
Ms. Heather Schnabel

Digital Marketing Coordinator

Brandeis University - M.S.
University of New Haven - B.S.
Ms. Catherine Sciortino

St. Joseph's University - B.S.
Providence College - M.Ed

Bio

Ms. Catherine Sciortino joined the Xaverian faculty in 2020 as a member of the science department. Prior to her time at Xaverian, she taught at St. Raphael Academy in Pawtucket, RI as a member of the PACT program. She received her Bachelor of Science in biology from Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia, PA in 2017 and her Master of Education from Providence College in 2020.
Mr. Andrew Sgro

Boston College - M.Ed.
Boston College - B.A.

Bio

Mr. Andrew Sgro joined Xaverian in the 2015-2016 school year. Prior to Xaverian, Mr. Sgro taught English at Needham High School, where he was also the student council advisor. He is a graduate of Boston College with a bachelor's degree in English and a master’s degree in English education. Mr. Sgro is the coach of the varsity volleyball team.
Mrs. Elizabeth Shatas

Middlebury College - M.A.
Providence College - B.A.

Bio

Ms. Elizabeth Shatas joined the Xaverian faculty in the 2008-2009 school year. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities from Providence College and a Master of Arts from Middlebury College. Prior to coming to Xaverian, she studied in Guadalajara, Mexico and Salamanca, Spain. Ms. Shatas serves as the co-moderator of the ski and snowboard club and Hawk News.
Mr. Michael Shippie

University of Notre Dame - M.Ed.
Boston College - B.A.
Middlebury College - M.A.

Bio

Mr. Michael Shippie joined the Xaverian faculty in the 2016-2017 school year. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Hispanic Studies and History from Boston College, a Master of Education from the University of Notre Dame, and a Master of Arts in Spanish Language from Middlebury College. He has completed graduate coursework in French in Québec, Canada, and in Spanish in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Prior to coming to Xaverian, he taught Spanish at McGill-Toolen Catholic High School in Mobile, AL. Mr. Shippie has traveled with students to Mexico, Ecuador, Italy, France, and Spain, and currently serves as the moderator of the international culture club.
Mr. Joseph Sotelo

Arizona State - B.A.
Boston College - M.Ed.
Boston College - M.A.

Bio

Mr. Joseph Sotelo joined the theology faculty in the 2009-2010 school year. Previously, he taught theology and served as a director of religious education in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix, Arizona. He graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies. He earned a joint Master of Education from Boston College Lynch School of Education and School of Theology and Ministry. He has also earned a Master of Arts in Theology from Boston College School of Theology and Ministry. He holds licensure in education administration from the Massachusetts Department of Education. Besides teaching, Mr. Sotelo serves as moderator for the Xaverian car club.
Mr. Stephen Steinbergher

School Counselor

Cambridge College - M.Ed.
Boston College - C.A.E.S
Miami University - B.S.
Mrs. Jennifer Sullivan

Academic Center for Enrichment Coordinator

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - M.Ed.
Emory University - B.A.

Bio

Jennifer holds a M.Ed. in School Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Emory University. Prior to joining Xaverian, Jennifer was a school counselor in the Holliston and Peabody Public School Systems, the Interim Director of Student Services at Beaver Country Day and an internship coordinator at The Education Cooperative. She has held positions as a Section 504 Coordinator, IEP Service Provider and teacher support team facilitator. Jennifer is currently pursuing a Certificate in Learning Differences and Neurodiversity with a Specialization in Executive Function through Landmark College. Jennifer is the mother of four teenage boys.
Mr. Michael Sylvia

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"My teachers are awesome. I was never really a big fan of English but Mr. Brodeur, my English teacher, has helped me enjoy going to class. He just makes classes really fun and keeps us engaged. We do different activities, not just reading and writing all the time. It’s one of my favorite classes now."

- Peter T. '26

Xaverian Brothers High School

800 Clapboardtree Street
Westwood, MA 02090

Phone: 781-326-6392
Fax: 781-320-0458
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EIN (Tax ID Number): 04-2314036

Xaverian is a Catholic, college-preparatory school for boys in grades 7-12. As an inclusive community, we embrace diverse experiences and perspectives, welcoming students and families from all faiths and backgrounds. Through exceptional academics, athletics, the arts, faith formation, and service opportunities, we help young men discover their unique gifts and talents so they can share them with a world in need.