By Michelle Priar
Superintendent of Catholic Schools
Catholic schools across our diocese will join hundreds of others as we celebrate National Catholic Schools Week next week, from Jan. 26 through Feb. 1. Every year students, school staff and families look forward to this week as they find creative ways to celebrate and recognize the invaluable contributions of Catholic education to our communities. It’s a cherished annual tradition and a time to reflect on how Catholic schools are cornerstones of spiritual formation, academic rigor and character development. I’m so proud of how our schools reflect our commitment to provide faith, excellence and service.
Catholic schools have the unique opportunity to ensure that faith is our foundation. In our diocese, daily prayer, weekly Mass and integration of Catholic teaching in every subject are all ways that students are exposed to the rich traditions of our Catholic faith. Students are encouraged to grow in their relationship with God and develop a moral compass guided by Gospel values. Faculty and staff work hand in hand with students as everyone involved in the school has opportunities to share their beliefs, foster compassion and integrity, and realize their sense of purpose.
Catholic schools are known for their commitment to academic excellence. In our diocese, we are blessed to have such dedicated educators, who see students as individuals with unique gifts and talents. Our teachers challenge students to excel and to achieve things they sometimes don’t realize they have the potential to achieve. The collaboration and partnership schools have with families result in student academic success. Not only do our students consistently score well on state assessments, but teachers ensure that students meet their individual growth targets as well.
A hallmark of Catholic education is the emphasis on service. Students throughout our diocese are encouraged to put their faith into action by engaging in service projects that address real-world issues such as poverty, hunger, environmental stewardship and civil engagement. These experiences instill a lifelong commitment to helping others and making a difference in the world.
Next week, schools throughout our diocese will be hosting a variety of events that bring together students, families and parish communities. Liturgical celebrations, open houses, themed dress days and spirit assemblies are all ways schools will be finding fun ways to celebrate in the coming days. If you have a child enrolled in one of our Catholic schools, check out your school’s schedule of events. If you don’t currently have a child enrolled with us but want to learn more, contact the principal at a local Catholic school, visit https://www.evdio.org/schools-information.html, or https://evdiocatholicschools.org/, or stop by a school from 5-7 p.m. local time on Jan. 30. Each school will be hosting a “Come and See” evening where you can speak directly with a school administrator. Come, see and help us celebrate Catholic schools!
As we celebrate National Catholic Schools Week, let us express our gratitude to the teachers, staff, and administrators who work tirelessly to nurture and inspire the next generation. Let us also celebrate the students who strive for excellence and the families who support them in their educational journey. May this week serve as a reminder of the vital role Catholic schools play in building a brighter future — one grounded in faith, dedicated to excellence and committed to service.