Sister ElizaBeth (Peter Marie) Plesche

This is my commandment: love one another as I have loved you.
-John 15:12

Twelve years of Catholic schooling in Salinas, Calif., left an impression on young ElizaBeth: “I was educated very well by the SNDdeN’s from first grade through high school." She knew she wanted to become a Sister, but first she wanted to see a bit more of the world. Following graduation from Palma High School, two years of college proved to be enough of the world! She entered the novitiate and continued her education to fulfill her second dream—to become a teacher. In time, she earned a Master's degree in early childhood education.

Sister Beth Plesche captures the attention of young students.

As Sister Peter Marie, Sister Beth's experience teaching first grade at Mother of Sorrows School in Los Angeles kindled her desire to continue working with the poor. After assignments in Santa Barbara and Federal Way, Washington, she returned to inner city Los Angeles, this time at St. Columbkille Elementary School, where she was a creative and much-loved teacher for 20 years.

After two decades with first and second graders, Sister Beth discovered that kindergarten was her real love: “Kids at that age are little sponges ready to learn. I love giving kids a good beginning!” And for 33 years, Sister Beth provided good beginnings to kindergarteners at Most Holy Trinity School in San Jose.

Now retired from full-time teaching, Sister Beth is busier than ever! She volunteers once a week at a school and is on several different province committees. She loves to welcome Sisters and friend for Sunday barbecues. She also hosts monthly book club and Prayer-Pot potluck groups.

Sister Beth has also participated in local demonstrations and marches. “I love her enthusiasm and no-nonsense approach to life,” says Sister Marie Annette Burkart, SNDdeN. “Her passion for women’s rights and working on behalf of the poor is inspiring!”

To make a gift to the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur in honor of Sister Beth, please click here.

Sister Beth Plesche with friends at her 60th Jubilee celebration in 2019.