By: Sr. Bernadette McManigal
Last week, the schools of the Diocese of Arlington opened their doors and began the 2010-2011 academic year. Teachers and administrators have been working hard to prepare their schools for their students; let me fill you in on a few of the new initiatives and new faces in our schools this year.
Students at Holy Cross Academy
Development Initiative for Elementary Schools: Several elementary schools in the diocese are exploring a new stewardship model. Aimed at staving off “fundraising fatigue,” this approach looks to engage more people in the mission of the school through an annual fund process. The Office of Catholic Schools is directing the initiative, which is guided by a consultant relationship with ISPD (Institute of School and Parish Development), a longstanding leader in Catholic school advancement.
Online Courses offered by Paul VI High School: Online courses will be open to all Catholic high-school students. There will be classes in genetics and microbiology. A recent Arlington Catholic Herald article states, “in addition to covering advanced concepts and technologies while still in high school, the self-paced nature and flexibility of the courses are a benefit to offering these hybrid classes.” What a great way to offer our students something old in a new way!
New Faces: Also, don’t forget to read the Herald article about our five new principals and one new president who will be joining the school communities of Corpus Christi, St. John the Evangelist, Queen of Apostles, St. William of York, Siena Academy and Bishop Denis J. O’Connell High School.
I wish all the students of the Diocese of Arlington a happy and healthy 2010-2011 academic year. And I pray for our teachers and administrators as they undertake task of educating our students to prepare them to be tomorrow’s leaders, growing ever closer to Christ along the way.
