The test results from across the nation show Catholic school students continue to outpace public schools in math and reading.

The Diocese of Grand Rapids is excited to share that David Faber, superintendent of Catholic schools, has been honored with the prestigious Dr. Karen M. Ristau Innovations Award by the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA). This esteemed award recognizes individuals, schools, or programs that have significantly advanced the mission of Catholic education through innovative programs or approaches. The award is extra special as Dr. Ristau was the president of NCEA when Faber became superintendent. Dr. Ristau served as a mentor for him.

Parents are the first and foremost educators of their children, and overwhelmingly have the largest influence on the faith life of their children. The family is vital to the moral and social formation of the young, and our Catholic schools recognize that parents need help raising children and maintaining faith in light of the overpowering challenges of an increasingly complex and modern world. We aim to support parents in this important vocation.

More than 6,400 students in our 31 Catholic schools across the Diocese of Grand Rapids celebrated national Catholic Schools Week, Jan. 26 - Feb. 1. This year’s theme was “Catholic Schools: United in Faith and Community.” And what fun we had!

As published in the Jan/Feb 2025 issue of FAITH Grand Rapids magazine. 

Dear friends of Catholic schools,

As my final school year nears the semester mark, I am filled with gratitude as I reflect on the incredible journey we have shared in the creation of an alliance of Catholic schools. It has been a privilege to serve this vibrant community, rooted in our shared faith and commitment to nurturing the minds and hearts of our students.

As published in parish bulletins on January 26, 2025

Dear supporters of Catholic school education, 

Featured in the January/February 2025 issue of FAITH Grand Rapids magazine. Written by Tom Kendra | Photography by Heather Abram 

In many ways, Pat Nugent’s life and work embody Catholic teaching on the value and dignity of human life, from conception to natural death. As they have for the past 32 years, weekdays for Pat begin in his classroom teaching West Catholic high school students; however, after school, it’s not uncommon to find him tending to the final resting place of the dearly departed of his parish, St. Patrick in Parnell.

Published on Dec. 29, 2024 on mlive.com | By Danielle James

Enrollment is up by 7.23% for the 31 Catholic schools within the Diocese of Grand Rapids since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, with 6,456 students enrolled for the 2024-25 school year. During the 2020-21 school year, 6,267 students were enrolled.

Merry Christmas from the Office of Catholic Schools! The Christmas season is a time of deep reflection for our community, emphasizing the birth of Jesus Christ and the love, hope, and peace that he brings.

Gather with us during these days of joy and peace to receive into your heart the perfect Christmas gift … our Savior Jesus Christ who brings hope and love to our weary world. Below you will find some helpful links as you plan where you will celebrate Mass. We’re glad you’re choosing to spend Christmas with us!