The Office of Catholic Schools, in conjunction with the Office of Planning, under Bishop Robert C. Morlino’s direction, have completed their review and revision of the recommendations stemming from the Catholic Schools Planning Process.
After the bishop fully reviewed and considered all available information, small changes and additions were made in order to best fit the recommendations into the larger scope of diocesan planning. Aside from these changes, the plan retains the recommendations put forth by the Steering Committee.
This strategic plan is a comprehensive list of directives and recommendations for schools that is integrated with the plans for parishes. The plan identifies several challenges faced by our schools and suggests several possible solutions.
Creation of action plans
As the plan recognizes that no single solution is universal, the plan will serve as a starting point for discussion and the creation of action plans that will move clusters, parishes, and schools toward implementing firm solutions.
The plan includes action steps at three distinct levels: a.) the cluster level, b.) the parish/school level, and c.) the diocesan level. Individual clusters will receive ideas and suggestions specific to their cluster regarding how to proceed with the implementation process.
The work of implementation will be completed primarily by existing cluster implementation teams, parish/school education commissions, and others with a schools focus. The work will be overseen by the current Diocesan Planning and Implementation Committee.
As the plan is communicated over the next several weeks, all of the various details will come into greater focus.
Once again I extend my sincere gratitude to the members of the Steering Committee, including pastors and principals, along with the nearly 100 members of the Core Teams.
As always, thank you for reading this column and may God continue to bless you and your families.
Michael Lancaster is superintendent of Catholic schools for the Diocese of Madison.