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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES TO THIS NEW MODEL?

Across the United States, dioceses have been creating new models of governance that help to create efficiencies and a unified strategic direction so that schools can become "individually excellent, but better together." The common challenges that our schools face can be solved with more cohesiveness by a board of men and women who are experts in the areas of mission, academics, leadership, finances, facilities, enrollment, and development.

UNDER THE NETWORK MODEL, THE SCHOOLS REMAIN PARISH-BASED, AND THE PASTOR REMAINS THE CANONICAL ADMINISTRATOR OF THE SCHOOL
  • This model was specifically chosen so that the school pastor remains responsible for Catholic mission and identity at the school.
  • Schools will retain their unique charisms, reflected in their individual vision and mission statements, and will keep their names and logos as members of the Network.
WHAT IS THE ROLE OF THE PASTORS FROM THE FOUR SITES IN THE NEW MODEL?

Pastors will continue to serve as the spiritual and pastoral leaders of their schools, while responsibilities related to talent management, finances, enrollment management, and development for the Network will be handled through the Network.  The pastors of the four parish schools have seats on the board to ensure they are actively involved in the management of the schools in all areas named above.

WHAT HAPPENS TO THE EMPLOYMENT STATUS OF OUR TEACHERS UNDER THE NEW MODEL?

Principals, teachers, and staff will be contracted by the Network using the current diocesan contract.  Teachers who qualify will continue to receive the same benefits and maintain their affiliation with the Diocese.

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF PRINCIPALS IN THE NETWORK MODEL?

Principals will have the same roles and responsibilities as they currently have as the academic and administrative leader of the school. Following Diocesan policy, they hire teachers and are responsible for the evaluation of all employees of the school. The principals will also collaborate with the Office of Catholic Schools on alternative credential programs and induction programs for their teachers. 

WHO DETERMINES CATHOLIC ACADEMIC STANDARDS AND CURRICULUM ADOPTION FOR NETWORK SCHOOLS?

The Office of Catholic Schools will continue to collaborate with principals and teachers to develop Catholic academic standards and benchmarks for content areas. Schools will choose the specific curriculum that addresses the standards and fits the unique mission and needs of their school community.

HOW WILL THE NETWORK AFFECT THE LOCAL PARENT ENGAGEMENT?

Advisory Councils and Home and School Associations will continue to serve their schools. We will explore how they can best connect with the new Board of Directors beginning in the 27-28 school year. Schools are allowed to continue their own local fundraising.

WHO ARE THE MEMBERS OF THE NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS?
WHAT ARE THE NETWORK BOARD COMMITTEES?

Catholic Mission and Identity Committee

The purpose of the Catholic Mission and Identity Committee is to enrich and strengthen the Catholic character of the Network. Our mission is to define and enhance the elements that make our schools distinctly Catholic, ensuring alignment with gospel values and Catholic tradition. We are responsible for the formation opportunities offered to our board and staff alike.

 

​​​​​​​Finance Committee

The Finance Committee exists to recommend financial policies, strategies, and budgets supporting the organization’s mission, values, and strategic plan. Its goal is to ensure the organization’s financial health and integrity.

 

​​​​​​​Advancement Committee

The Advancement Committee exists to support the network and the administration in advancing the mission of the schools through the various revenue sources. We assure that the brand strategy aligns with both our enrollment and development strategies. We bring forward strategic and best practice concepts related to marketing, enrollment, annual fund, major gifts, planned giving, alumni engagement and event fundraising.

 

Talent Management

The Talent Management Committee exists to provide strategic oversight and guidance on matters related to talent acquisition, professional development, retention, succession planning and organizational culture. The Committee ensures that the Network has the right talent and leadership capabilities to achieve its mission and strategic objectives.

HOW ARE THE COSTS OF THE NEW NETWORK GOING TO BE ALLOCATED ACROSS THE REGION?

All parishes in the north and south deaneries, at Bishop Golka’s request, will be invited into a parish investment model to collectively support Catholic education. Current pastors are engaged in this process, and clergy will receive details prior to FY27 budget planning.

WHAT ARE THE AREAS WHERE THE NETWORK BOARD DOES NO HAVE AUTHORITY?
  1.  
  • Review of administrative decisions.
  • Administrative regulation.
  • Personnel issues that concern faculty or staff members.
  • Hiring or firing of faculty and staff.
  • Issues related to student life or student behavior
  • Development of Catholic academic standards or adoption of curriculum for the schools.

If you have additional questions, please email them to:

soppelt@diocs.org