In a world that often feels chaotic for young people, Alleyxa Heisserer (pictured here third from right at SEARCH) is a young adult with a deeply devoted faith life who serves as inspiration for her students at Pope Saint John Paul II Preparatory School. A middle school theology teacher with a rich background in Catholic education and youth ministry, Heisserer’s own spiritual journey shapes the way she guides her students through their formative years.

Growing up in Florida, Heisserer’s life was steeped in the Catholic faith. “I can count on one hand how many times I missed Mass,” she recalls, reflecting on a childhood filled with spiritual growth encouraged by her parents. Her early education in a K-8 Catholic school laid the foundation for a deep connection to her faith, but it was her determination to attend Catholic high school that marked a pivotal point in her journey. “I begged my parents to let me apply for a scholarship,” she shares, emphasizing her commitment even in her early teens.

Once at Tampa Catholic High School, Heisserer encountered transformative experiences that ignited her faith, like the Life Teen program. Inspired by her youth minister and the college missionaries at Life Teen Camp Covecrest, she found herself deeply moved by the notion of living out one’s faith. “It was the first time I met the Lord personally,” she reflects. “Everything I had been taught began to make sense.”

Her passion for theology only grew, leading her to apply to various Catholic universities. She chose Franciscan University of Steubenville, where she pursued a degree in theology and catechetics with a concentration in youth ministry. “The intellectual and spiritual devotion I found there was incredible,” Heisserer says.

Following her graduation, Heisserer took part in a youth ministry internship, which included an opportunity to join the Totus Tuus program in Nashville. “I knew I wanted to move here,” she states. She soon fell in love with the city and its vibrant Catholic community. Living in the St. Maria Goretti House, a home for young adult women dedicated to intentional living, further deepened her commitment to her faith. “It’s been a huge blessing to be surrounded by like-minded women,” she notes. She acknowledges the importance of communal prayer and shared faith experiences as pivotal to her continued growth.

Now teaching 7th and 8th graders, Heisserer is particularly passionate about guiding students through their sacramental preparation, especially Confirmation. “I feel privileged to walk with these kids during such an important time in their lives,” she explains. Her own experience of confirmation instilled in her a desire to help young people understand their faith on a personal level.

In addition to her classroom work, Heisserer is heavily involved in campus ministry activities, including organizing retreats like SEARCH, where she supports teens as they explore their faith. “It’s special to see how my students grow and become leaders themselves,” she says. “I look forward to witnessing their development from 7th graders to high school students ready to lead their peers.”

For Heisserer, teaching theology is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about building a community and fostering deep, personal connections with faith. As she continues her journey alongside her students, her hope is clear: to inspire the next generation to embrace their faith wholeheartedly, just as she did in her own formative years. Through her dedication, Alleyxa Heisserer is not just teaching theology—she’s supporting the mission of JPII by nurturing a legacy of faith.