Dear friends in Christ,
It can be argued that Catholic education is as important now as it has ever been. In response to the growing incompatibility between popular culture and Catholicism, many are turning to Catholic schools.
Our schools recognize parents as the primary educators of their children, teach respect for every human life, affirm that we are created male and female with purposeful complementarity, uphold marriage as between one man and one woman, and prioritize incarnational, Christ-centered Catholic education.
In addition, Catholic schools are the top performing schools in the nation. As a result of these factors, we have momentum and families are enrolling — nearly a 7% increase in total enrollment in schools in our diocese over the last two years!
It is with great joy that we present the second annual report from the Office of Catholic Schools. As you read the following pages, the four priorities of our strategic plan will guide you — Catholic Culture and Mission, Programmatic Excellence, Accessibility and Investment, and Stewardship and Sustainability. Through these metrics we will highlight our schools’ efforts, quantify our successes, and share stories that will inspire you. We hope you share the good news of our Catholic schools!
We are always ready to welcome more families to receive the rich benefits of Catholic education.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend David J. Walkowiak, Bishop of Grand Rapids
&
David Faber, Superintendent of Catholic Schools