Record enrollment: a testament to Catholic schools

As we welcome students back for another promising school year, I am reflecting on the journey our esteemed Catholic schools across the western half of North Carolina have taken over the past few years. From my beginning as Superintendent in 2020, through the challenges of the pandemic, to the growing demand we face today, our dedication to fostering Catholic culture has been a beacon guiding us toward excellence in all pursuits.

Our enrollment is a testament to the collective hard work of everyone in the diocese, as we embrace close to 8,200 students in our 20 Catholic schools – the highest enrollment in our history. Behind these numbers lie the stories of more than 600 new families who have joined us since the pandemic, each placing faith in our system to nurture the growth of their children not just intellectually, but as virtuous disciples of Jesus Christ. While we celebrate this milestone, we all know enrollment is but one indicator of success. There remains the ever-important task of ensuring that our schools radiate an immersive, accessible, and authentically Catholic spirit, where all students are welcomed and can heed their call to holiness.

It’s inspiring to see our schools remain resilient and steadfast during times when the global education sector faced unprecedented challenges. Making the brave decision to keep our schools open for in-person learning throughout COVID-19 was borne from our conviction that prioritizes the emotional, academic, social, and spiritual well-being of our students. Looking back, I am filled with gratitude that our decisions were appropriate and fruitful. Our students thrived at a time when many institutions faced declines – all thanks to the unwavering partnership of parents, faculty and staff working together for the good of our students.

Last year, the national spotlight shined on our efforts, recognizing our holistic and exceptional education and robust Catholic identity, as the Catholic Education Foundation designated us “Catholic Institution of the Year.” Our students benefit from a premier education, as evident in everything from the classes they choose, to the colleges they attend, to the scholarships they earn, to the careers they pursue.

Such accolades demonstrate that our pursuit of excellence – in academics, faith and extracurriculars – springs from our Catholic identity itself.

Behind our success stands the relentless dedication of our school leaders, teachers, staff, and support from our Church and pastoral center leadership. Their continued commitment to our core pillars — Robust Catholic Identity, Holistic Education Formation, Committed Operational Vitality, and Effective Governance and Leadership – has forged our schools into environments that are faith-filled, welcoming of all people who seek to join our mission, and truly exceptional.

Special acknowledgment goes to our devoted pastors and chaplains who have consistently championed our Catholic culture and helped us deepen relationships between our parishes and schools. We are a combination of parish-based, metro, diocesan and independent schools – yet we are one system committed to God and our students.

My personal journey from Nebraska, driven by my search for a faith-filled community with potential to grow into a “destination diocese,” mirrors the sentiments of many who have become part of our school system. Our vibrant diocese – from Greensboro to Asheville and everything in between – was poised for national prominence, and together, we are realizing that aspiration.

As superintendent, I am often reminded of the importance of partnership and unity. Our parents, the primary educators of their children, continue to play an essential role in our schools. I am so grateful they not only entrust us with their children’s education, but also actively engage in reinforcing faith and academic lessons at home. This collaboration makes our community even more vibrant and purpose-driven, and we could not realize the great gains in our schools without our parents walking with us every step of the way.

May our Lord, through the intercession of Mary, His Mother, light our path, and may we celebrate countless more milestones together.