May 2009

THE MAGAZINE OF THE CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF LANSING

W Sc h

Whew! That is a long sentence. However, it does capture our aim. If we begin with the end of the sentence, we see that all that is done in our schools is to be “illumined by faith.” Thus, the way that we look at our world, the way we look at our human life, and the way we look at ourselves (as Bishop Earl A. Boyea is the fifth bishop of the Diocese of Lansing. well as others) is to be seen with the eyes of faith – eyes that are constantly looking at Jesus. As Christ was, so our Our society today does not really believe this. It does not Catholic schools seek to help our young women and men to treat them as new creations in Christ; it does not help them be women for others, to be men for others. realize the potential of that phrase. Our Catholic schools, in At the root of all this is baptism. Here we see that Catholic that sense, are very counter-cultural. They want to graduate schools really are meant to be an unfolding of our baptismal students who will bring a new order to our culture, so that grace and our baptismal promise. Parents have an incredible the salvation won for us in Jesus Christ can be shared by responsibility to help their children unfold that baptism, which our society and world. was the gift of the Blessed Trinity to us and to our children. As In this issue of FAITH Magazine, you are invited into the we know, this is never accomplished in a few days; it takes a lives of some of those students and those schools. We, as an lifetime. Parents, of course, entire diocese, celebrate our are not responsible for their Catholic schools; we, as an We, as an entire diocese, celchildren when their progeny entire diocese, are responsiebrate our Catholic schools; are in their 40s, but parental ble for our Catholic schools; responsibility does take these we, as an entire diocese, are responsible we, as an entire diocese, kids through their school benefit from our Catholic for our Catholic schools; we, as an enyears. To prepare them to schools and the Christian take a place in the work force, tire diocese, benefit from our Catholic leaders they will produce to prepare them to be good for our future. And all you schools and the Christian leaders they citizens, to prepare them parents who have sacrificed will produce for our future.” for marriage or a special so much, and continue to vocation, to prepare them for do so, in order to enroll your their place in the church is ultimately all an unfolding of their daughters and sons in Catholic schools deserve our great baptismal commitment so as to prepare them for heaven. thanks. It is unfortunate that so many more would like to make It is that “special atmosphere,” the Vatican II document use of our schools, but are unable to do so at this time. It does states, which is to be created in our schools to assist parents call upon the whole diocese for a renewed generosity. We in fulfilling their responsibilities. Our schools want to help support our foreign missions, and well we should. We also parents help their kids get to heaven. In baptism, these need to support our home missions, as it were. But today, let youngsters did in fact become new creations in Christ. us celebrate. Please enjoy this issue of FAITH.

Catholic Schools ‘a special atmosphere

from the bishop

animated by the Gospel’

J. Carlson

oc es e

La ns in g

C at

lic

e all want to be Vatican II Catholics. The Declaration on Christian Education (#8), from the council, states: “No less than other schools does the Catholic school pursue cultural goals and the human formation of youth. The holistic formation of our young men and women, intellectually, humanly, physically and spiritually is the five-days-a-week aim of all our Catholic schools. This formation, of course is guided by Christ, but its aim is to share with them the cultural heritage which has been handed on to us. But its proper function is to create for the school community a special atmosphere animated by the Gospel spirit of freedom and charity, to help youth grow according to the new creatures they were made through Baptism as they develop their own personalities, and finally to order the whole of human culture to the news of salvation so that the knowledge the students gradually acquire of the world, life and man is illumined by faith.”

Liturgical Calendar: St. Joseph the Worker May 1 • St. Athanasius, bishop and doctor of the church May 2 • Ss. Nereus and Achilleus, martyr; St. Pancras, martyr May 12 • Our Lady of Fa

FAITH Magazine / May 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com

The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing

Most Reverend Earl A. Boyea

Our Catholic Schools

PUBLISHER

Rev. Dwight Ezop

EDITOR AND CHAIRMAN

May 2009 • Volume 10: Issue 4

FAITH Publishing Ser v i c e

a special issue

Patrick M. O’Brien PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Elizabeth Martin Solsburg DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM PUBLISHING/ EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Joanne Eason DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE SERVICE

Patrick Dally ART DIRECTOR

Lynne Ridenour Janna Stellwag Abby Wieber

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Jillane Job EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Patricia Oliver SECRETARY

InnerWorkings

PRINT MANAGEMENT

Andrew Peltcs

EDITORIAL INTERN

Dcn. Tom and JoAnne Fogle Eileen Gianodis Rev. Joseph Krupp CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Derek Melot

PROOFREADING

Here is your handy reference guide to Catholic schools in the Diocese of Lansing. Compare curricula, tuition and student/teacher ratios. Find out more about our Catholic schools and why we should support them.

Carlson Productions Tom Gennara (cover)

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Wayne Case Michael Eichhorn Mary Jo Gillilland Diane Nowak Margaret Perrone Joseph Reid Rev. Bernard Reilly James Rhadigan Ricardo Rodriguez Dcn. David Rosenberg Rev. James Swiat Rev. Jerry Vincke Peter Wagner Sharon Wimple ADVISORY BOARD

FAITHTM (USPS 019993) is a publication of FAITH Publishing Service, Catholic Diocese of Lansing, 300 W. Ottawa, Lansing, MI 48933. FAITHTM is a membership publication of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing and is published monthly except for February and August. To purchase a subscription, log onto FAITHmag.com. If you have a change of address, please contact your parish. Periodicals postage paid at Lansing, MI or additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to FAITHTM, 209 Seymour Ave., Lansing, MI 48933 ©FAITH Publishing Service. FAITH is a trademark of FAITH Publishing Service.

FOUNDING PUBLISHER

Rev. Charles Irvin

FOUNDING EDITOR

2 from the bishop Catholic Schools – ‘a special atmosphere animated by the Gospel’ – Bishop Earl A. Boyea 4 in the know with Fr. Joe Why do we pray to saints? – Father Joseph Krupp 5 marriage matters He says: I just want respect and order She says: He wants to run our home like a military unit What do they do? – Deacon Tom and JoAnne Fogle

Powers Catholic High School offers $5 million to buy Flint’s Southwestern Academy Powers Catholic High School has offered $5 million for Flint’s Southwestern Academy at a time when the Flint School District is planning to close some schools to save money. The offer was made March 9, said Michael Diebold, communications director for the Catholic Diocese of Lansing. “While an offer has been made, I want to assure Flint parents that the Flint Southwestern Academy site is not for sale,” said Flint Superintendent Linda Thompson in an e-mailed statement.

Flint attorney Michael Manley, who is representing Powers, said the offer shows how serious Powers is about the Southwestern site. “We feel it’s a win-win situation because of the budget woes in Flint and our desire to become centrally located,” he said. “If they choose to go in a different direction, so will we.” Powers has been at its current location, 2040 W. Carpenter Road in Mt. Morris Township, since it opened in 1970, but a 1996 survey reported 75 percent of the area’s Catholics live in the southern half of the county. Officials have predicted enrollment would slip into the 500-student range, if Powers stays where it is.

atima May 13 • St. Matthias, apostle May 14 • St. Isidore the Farmer May 15 • St. John I, pope and martyr May 18 • St. Bernardine of Siena, priest May 20 • St. Rita of Cascia, religious May 22

local news

FAITHPublishingService.com

Most Rev. Carl F. Mengeling

what you’ll get out of this issue

• What’s the state of our schools? • How Kairos changed the lives of four students in our Catholic high schools • Profiles of the four diocesan high schools • Profiles of parish Catholic schools • Interviews with our retiring superintendent – and our new one – Eileen Gianodis

inside this issue

GRAPHIC DESIGNER/WEBMASTER

Dear Fr. Joe: T. Gennara

Why do we pray to saints? @

Send your questions to: “In the Know with Fr. Joe” FAITH Magazine, 209 Seymour Ave., Lansing, MI 48933 Or: JoeInBlack@priest.com

Can you please tell me why Catholics pray to saints? As we discussed last month, we are all in the process of becoming perfect creatures of God – becoming saints. This process toward our perfection doesn’t end in our death. Once we die, we enter into purgatory, where God’s perfect love and grace confront and heal the damage we’ve done to our souls on earth. Here, God takes his hunger for our perfection up a notch.

in the know with Fr. Joe

hat do you call a line of rabbits walkW ing backward? A: A receding hare-line!

purgatory – what a wonderful love that connects us even in and after death! So, in the last two months, we’ve answered two questions: Why we pray for those in purgatory and why we ask saints to pray for us … pretty slick, eh? I leave you with a few words from Mere Christianity. Go check this book out and enjoy another day in God’s presence!

Why pray for the dead? Because all three groups: the saints on earth, the saints in Heaven and the saints in purgatory are all on the same team, united by the same God who loves us all. There also are the “saints in heaven.” These are the folks who have finished the process of purgatory and have entered fully into God’s glory. The joy that waits there cannot be described. So, why pray for the dead? Because all three groups – the saints on earth, the saints in heaven and the saints in purgatory – are all on the same team, united by the same God who loves us all. Look at what Paul wrote in Romans: What will separate us from

the love of Christ? Will anguish, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or the sword? No, in all these things we conquer overwhelmingly through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor present things, nor future things, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. -Romans 8: 35, 37-39 Last month, we talked about why we pray for our fellow teammates who may be in

purgatory. We also know that those who have “made it,” who have entered heaven, also are praying for all of us. C. S. Lewis, in Mere Christianity, uses the image of a child with a toothache: He goes to his mom for something to stop the pain now. Mom gets him the immediate relief, but also takes him to the dentist, who finds all the problems with all his teeth and gets right to work. Does it hurt? Yes, but it’s a healing hurt. The saints in heaven pray for us on earth and those in

If we let him - for we can prevent him, if we choose - he will make the feeblest and filthiest of us into a god or goddess, a dazzling, radiant, immortal creature, pulsating all through with such energy and joy and wisdom and love as we cannot now imagine, a bright stainless mirror which reflects back to God perfectly (though, of course, on a smaller scale) his own boundless power and delight and goodness. The process will be long and in parts very painful; but that is what we are in for. Nothing less. He meant what he said. – CS Lewis

Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord May 24 • St. Mary Magdalen de’Pazzi, virgin May 25 • St. Phili

FAITH Magazine / May 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com

I just want respect and order Michael says: Cara doesn’t understand what it was like in Iraq. I saw things I can’t ever talk about to her – or to anyone. I just want to forget and get on with my real life again. But I came home to kids who don’t seem to have any respect for me as their father – they always go running to Cara with their complaints about my discipline, and she backs them up. It’s causing chaos, and I can’t live this way.

He wants to run our home like a military unit Cara says: I was so happy when Michael was finally discharged from the Army and came home. I thought everything would be fun again, and Deacon Tom Fogle and JoAnne Fogle help prepare couples for marriage. that we could settle down to raising our two children together. But Michael seems to be angry the returning spouse back family co-leader. There will all the time, and he takes it out on the kids. He doesn’t underinto the family unit. Michael need to be a lot of give-andstand that we’ve established our own way of doing things while wasn’t out of a family; he take between Michael and he’s been gone – he just wants to be in charge and have the kids was just part of a different Cara, yet it will be extremely jump to obey when he issues an order. They’re confused, and type of family. It was a family important to the success of I’m at my wits’ end keeping the peace. Help. consisting of all adults who the entire family for them all behaved in a mature and to find a common ground It is sad, from family life back home disciplined manner. Integrat- of mutuality where both are but this takes a tremendous amount ing back into the family unit comfortable. Michael and real-life of forgiveness, flexibility and with Cara and the children Cara are reminded that God situation love. Adjustments are needed can be equated with the inis always close when you is a common occurrence in a by all members of the family, tegration of two families into need him. During this time lot of military families servand not by just the returning a step-family. Michael and of re-entry into a family unit ing our country during this military member. All memCara should consider develis one of those times. Jesus time of conflict and war. As a bers of the family want to be oping a process of intention- has promised us assistance if retired military family, JoAnne together again. This is what al dialogue with each other. we will just let him share our and I can relate rather well all members of the family Yes there may be events that load. When an obstacle to a with Michael and Cara. For have been praying for, longMichael cannot yet share (or marriage or family relationJo and me, it was the Vietnam ing for and hoping for since may never be able to share) ship begins to take shape, era. For Michael and Cara, the family separation started. and Cara should respect call in the most expert of it is Iraq and Afghanistan. Usually, with time and pathat aspect of a returning mediators – Jesus himself. Regardless of the named tience, the family can regain war veteran. Michael, on the He held off the demons beconflict or war, returning vet- their cohesiveness again. other hand, would do best fore, he will be there for you erans and their families face In some cases, howto accept the fact that “life to do it again, should you a troublesome time returnever, professional assistance at home continued” in his just ask for his assistance. ing from a deployment in a (counselors, pastor, or even absence and it will take time Through prayer and patience combat zone. To adequately a family systems therapist) to re-introduce him back the family unit will function separate life in a combat zone will be needed to integrate into the role of father and smoothly again.

He says | She says what do they do?

T. Gennara

your marriage matters

ip Neri, priest May 26 • St. Augustine of Canterbury, bishop May 27 • Solemnity of Pentecost May 31

St. Pius X families enjoy a Eucharist retreat The children and their parents at St. Pius X Parish participated in a Eucharist retreat March 15 called “Jesus invites us to his supper table.” The retreat connected the family meal with the Eucharist meal at Mass. The children and parents enjoyed seeing the comparison of the two meals and how closely related they are. The presentation went from excitement about preparing for a special meal to what music to use to set the atmosphere of their special meal. Now, everyone will be reminded at the family meal about the Eucharist and how Jesus invites us all to his supper table. “What a gift the Lord has given us in the Eucharist and our special meal, the Mass,” said Cindee McColley, director of religious education at St. Pius the X. “Talking about the Mass in a way that connects the mysteries of the Eucharist to the happenings of everyday life was a very real eye opener.”

Holy Family School students celebrate service during Lent Holy Family School in Grand Blanc continues to carry forth the theme of Catholic Schools’ Week. Throughout Lent, the students celebrated service by reaching out to others in three ways. They collected loose change for Heartbeat, brought in soup for Outreach and raised money for St. Jude’s Children Hospital. Students put their loose change into baby bottles in their classrooms for Heartbeat. When the bottles were full, they turned them in. So far, they have collected more than $700. On March 12, students and teachers held a Lenten retreat and donated 600 cans of soup to their parish Outreach program. In support of St. Jude’s Children Hospital, classes held a twoweek Math-a-thon. And one sixth-grader, who recently won $50 in the school’s magazine drive, donated it to St. Jude. It is evident almsgiving is prevalent in the hearts and minds of the parents and children at Holy Family School.

local news

Lansing Catholic wins first competitive cheer crown

IHM-St. Casimir students visit Holocaust museum The 8th grade at IHM-St. Casimir School spent several weeks studying the Holocaust. Students have read memoirs, viewed films, wrote about the heroes of this terrible time and worked hard to find the elements of hope that helped the Jewish people to survive. On March 9, the class visited the Holocaust Memorial Center in Farmington Hills. The tour was capped by a visit with a Holocaust survivor. This moving experience will be remembered by the 8th grade students for years to come.

The Lansing Catholic High School competitive cheer team posted a school record score of 743.3312 at the Catholic Area Activity Conference Blue/White competitive cheer league finals Feb. 11 at Grand Ledge High School. The team also recorded season-high scores in all three rounds, clinching their first conference championship. Ten athletes were named to the CAAC All-Conference team. First team all-conference was awarded to Jessica Hospodar, Jordan Garvie, Hallie St. Marie, CJ Courter, Mackenzie Mohr and Jessica Poke, while Honorable Mention All-Conference went to Chelsea Bridson, Hannah Lindman, Amy Goeckel and Chelsea Kobus. The team is coached by Jodi Boehringer.

Dr. Conrad Donakowski speaks at national conference in Nebraska Dr. Conrad Donakowski, minister of music at St. Thomas Aquinas in East Lansing, was an invited speaker at the recent national conference of the Society for Catholic Liturgy in Omaha, Neb. His address, Useless for Modern Man, compared liturgical reforms during the Age of Enlightenment with those during the Age of Vatican II. His second presentation was a workshop, Beauty on a Budget. It offered strategies for building a cost-effective comprehensive music ministry in parishes with limited resources. The Society for Catholic Liturgy is a select group of liturgical architects, artists, musicians and scholars aiming to implement the ideals of the Second Vatican Council.

An evening of music and prayer with John Michael Talbot Internationally known musician, author and humanitarian John Michael Talbot will perform in concert May 2, 7:30 p.m., at St. Joseph Church, 6805 Mast Rd., Dexter. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. They can be purchased at the parish office, after all Masses or by sending a check to St. Joseph Parish, 3430 Dover St., Dexter, MI 48130. For more information, call the parish office at 734.426.8483 or visit its Web site www.stjos.com.

FAITH Magazine / May 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com

Build a blanket for Burundi! During the 2009 Lenten season, the Catholic Community of St. Jude in DeWitt developed a plan to make a fleece blanket for each child at the orphanage in Mukenke, Burundi, which they helped to build and sponsor. The project was named Build a Blanket for Burundi. While Africa is not well-known for cold weather, the temperature during the rainy season can be as low as 40 degrees at night. Children could also be expected to use the soft fleece blankets to cuddle with when they needed to feel a little extra love. An appeal was made to parishioners for donations of fleece or money to buy the fabric to make the “no-sew blankets.” On March 7, parishioners gathered at St. Jude Community Center for a fun day of cutting, tying fleece blankets and a potluck lunch. Parishioners came in family groups, confirmation candidates with their sponsors, religious formation mentor groups and several seniors. Many had never made a fleece blanket before, but with hard work and dedication they completed 150 blankets – enough to cover over half of the orphans in the orphanage. Father Dwight Ezop, pastor of St. Jude said, “We used all of the money that was donated to purchase fleece and all the fleece that was donated to make the first 150 blankets.” Another build a blanket day is being planned. Since there are about 160 orphans who still need the comfort of a new fleece blanket, parishioners are again collecting donated fleece and funds.

Children at St. Mary on the Lake host party to benefit seniors and Catholic Charities The children in faith formation at St. Mary on the Lake Parish in Manitou Beach chose a service project this year to benefit the seniors of the parish and Catholic Charities of Lenawee County. The children hosted a card and game party on March 15 with a St. Patrick’s Day theme. The children brought money to Children’s Liturgy of the Word each week, earning $142.06 to host the party. They formed committees to plan

the party, which included invitations, decorations, tickets, prizes and refreshments. Senior citizens were mailed invitations; and pre-packaged snacks were the required admission fee. The snacks were given to Catholic Charities for children and teens, who come for counseling. Each person bringing a snack was given a ticket, enabling them to win prizes for games played. Seniors were welcomed, snacks were served and smiles and laughter were the highlight of the day. On leaving, one person dropped a comment in the suggestion box: “Let’s do this again!”

Huron Valley Catholic School teachers receive St. John Bosco award Van and Irene Vandagriff, husband and wife teachers at Huron Valley Catholic School, received the St. John Bosco Award March 14 at the school’s annual benefit auction, themed Footprints in the Sand. The award is presented annually and is named in honor of the saint, who dedicated his life to the mission of educating

St. Louis Center prepares for 15th annual Golf and Glory Outing The 15th annual Golf & Glory Outing for St. Louis Center is scheduled for June 23 with a 10 a.m. shotgun start at the beautiful, but challenging, University of Michigan Golf Course in Ann Arbor. The cost for this outing is $275 per golfer and $1,000 per foursome, with many sponsorship opportunities available. Following 18 holes of golf, players are treated to a steak dinner and a live auction of sports memorabilia conducted by local auctioneer David Helmer. As a part of this event, a benefit Celebrity Dinner also will be held the night before on June 22. Sponsored by Paesano’s of Ann Arbor, celebrity servers from the community will assist. The dinner is supported by freewill donations from those in attendance. The dinner and golf outing benefit St. Louis Center, a residential care center for persons with developmental disabilities located west of Chelsea. It is run by the Servants of Charity Congregation, who just celebrated their 100th anniversary. Please visit the events page on their Web site at www.stlouiscenter.org for more information on registration and sponsorship opportunities, or contact St. Louis Center at 734.475.8430.

and forming young minds and hearts. What is most fundamental to Van’s teaching is that he is first his students’ brother in Christ and second their teacher. For the sake of good order, Van is the authority in the classroom, but his authority is subject to the fact that he is charged with using his knowledge and skills to help children become Christian adults whom God will use to build his kingdom on earth. Discipline, hard work and academic accomplishment are all for nothing outside of that; Van emphasizes all three. Irene Vandagriff has taught at Huron Valley since 1994. For Irene, teaching at Huron Valley Catholic School is an integral part of her call to service and loving her students as God loves her. She considers teaching at the school a blessing.

FAITH Magazine / May 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com

April café events

café

Theology on Tap is May 19, 7 p.m. at the Arbor Brewing Co., 114 E. Washington, Ann Arbor. For information, contact Jen Delvaux at 734.821.2126 or jen@stfrancisa2.org. Clergy and lay leadership training program - family of origin work will be May 11, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at St. Francis Retreat Center in DeWitt. For information or to register, call the retreat center at 866.669.8321. Catechist formation and adult education offerings: All are invited to attend two presentations in the lower level of St. Matthew Church in Flint. Cost is $7 per presentation. Pre-registration is required. To register, contact Dr. Connie McClanahan at 810.232.0880 or email cdcmc2@yahoo.com. May 16, Al Weilbaecher, who has taught in the Lansing Diocese for many years, will present the topics, “Creation and Incarnation,” 10 a.m.-noon and “Jesus Christ,” 1 p.m.-3 p.m.

At our retreat centers St. Francis Retreat Center, DeWitt program, 866.669.8321. May 2, Create a Garden Stone, 9:00 a.m. to noon; and May 8-9, Mother/Daughter Retreat is a time to pray, rest and enjoy being together with the women of your family.

things to do:

community

Knights of Columbus of Owosso host Trivia Night May 2. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $10 per person. Prize money awarded. Proceeds will go to the St. Paul and St. Joseph religious education programs. Please RSVP to Dennis or Linda Hrcka at 989.725.8037. Beginning Experience of Lansing is presenting a weekend for grieving, widowed, divorced and separated people on May1-3. Call Pam at 517.784.7585. St. Robert Bellarmine, Flushing will have a Protecting God’s Children session May 9 from 9 a.m. to noon. You can preregister for the session at www. virtus.org. Please do not call the hosting parish to pre-register. Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Lansing has a senior fitness program for those 60 and older 9 a.m.-11a.m. on Thursdays. For details, call 517.974.2781. St. Robert Bellarmine, Flushing has a new women’s divorce

support group. For more information, call 810.659.2501. Christ the King Church in Flint has ballroom dancing every Tuesday 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. May 12, 5:30 p.m. – Experience a Tour of Hope. These guided tours of historic St. Vincent Catholic Charities highlight our rich history. We will share our services and stories from over the years to inspire you. Tours are free to anyone in the community. Pre-registration is required. Please call Rhonda at 323.4734 ext. 1205 or e-mail aboodr@stvcc.org to RSVP or to schedule an alternate date or time. Flint Catholic Urban Ministry Interfaith Gospel Choir Concert will perform at 4 p.m., May 3 at Christ the King, 1811 Seymour Ave. in Flint, 810.233-0402. Steiner Chorale Concert will be May 9 at 8 p.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 3815 S. Cedar St., Lansing. St. Gerard, Lansing Spring Festival, May 1-3, Children’s games, dunk tank, food, beer tent and pub games, teen dance and raffle.

Thicker Than Water will perform a benefit concert at St. Pius in Flint, 6 p.m. May 17. All proceeds will benefit the teens of the parish who will be attending the National Catholic Youth Conference in Kansas City in November. For more information, contact St. Pius X Parish at 810.235.8574. The Knights of Columbus in Ypsilanti – Al Waters Council #3230 – are raising funds to help the seminarians and postulants in the diocese by hosting a dinner on May 15 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church’s Harvey Hall. To purchase a ticket, call 734.572.1880 or e-mail knightskc@sbcglobal.net. Marriage Matters of Jackson workshop, Pick a Partner, May 7, 14, 21 and 28, 5:30 p.m. at Jackson Coffee Co. For information, call 517.796.5116 or e-mail info@marriagemattersjackson.com. St. Mary, Pinckney will have Walking with Grief series 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m., May 21June 25. Grief Support Group – Seasons of Hope meets at the Catholic Community of St. Jude, 801 N. Bridge Street, in DeWitt on Wednesdays, 7 p.m., May 13-June 17. For information, contact the parish office at 517. 669.8335. St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Ann Arbor will host an Annulment Workshop, 8:30 a.m. to noon on June 6. The presenter is Eileen Jaramillo, MDiv, JCL, a tribunal judge. You can register by contacting Virginia Mikola at 734.994.9194. The Genesee Vicariate is offering catechist formation 7 p.m.-9 p.m. June 24. For further information call, 810.686.3920 ext. 11 or email dresainmary@yahoo.com. Persons who are Sight Impaired/Blind annual retreat is May 12-14 at St. Francis Retreat Center, DeWitt. Reservations and fee required. Call Colleen Andrews, 517.342.2560. All about Us Marriage

Retreat is May 16-17. For information, contact Marriage Matters of Jackson at 517.796.5116 or e-mail info@marriagemattersjackson. com. There will be a volunteer information session, May 7, 6 p.m. at St. Vincent Catholic Charities Children’s Home Chapel, 2828 W. Willow St., Lansing. To RSVP or for more information, contact Elyse Lee 517.323.4734 or e-mail leee@stvcc.org. Knights of Columbus will sponsor a Mother’s Day Dinner May 9 at 5:30 p.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Lansing. May 16-17, Catholic Engaged Encounter weekend at St. Joseph Retreat Center in Jackson. For information or to register, call Wayne and Sue Fransted, 517.522.5121. 25th Annual Father Mac Dinner will be May 20 at the Kellogg Center. The dinner benefits the tuition assistance fund at Lansing Catholic High School. To make a reservation, call 517.267.2114. St. Louis Center Golf and Glory Golf Outing, June 23, 10 a.m. shotgun start, University of Michigan Golf Course in Ann Arbor. To register, visit their Web site at www.stlouiscenter.org/events_golf-and-glory.html. For more information or to volunteer, e-mail us at mail@stlouiscenter.org. A French meal prepared by Chef Joseph of the Holy Spirit Church in Hamburg will be served May 30 after the 4 p.m. Mass. The madefor-TV miniseries “Joan of Arc” will be shown following the meal. Also a Joan Seminar on the three previous Thursdays at 7 p.m. will be offered. For more information, contact the church office at 810.231.9199. Pilgrimage to Israel/Holy Land with Father Andrew Czajkowski, St. John the Evangelist, Davison, Nov. 10-19. Cost: $3,479. There are 30 seats available. For information, call 810.653.2377.

e es oc of at C ho lic

my story

g in ns La

h Sc oo

T. Gennara

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Powers Catholic High School and the parish schools of Genesee and Shiawassee counties

Lansing Catholic High School and the parish schools of Clinton, Eaton and Ingham counties

Fr. Gabriel Richard High School and the parish schools of Livingston and Washtenaw counties

Lumen Christi Catholic High School and the parish schools of Jackson, Hillsdale and Lenawee counties

FAITH Magazine / May 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com

Diocese of Lansing Catholic Schools – at a glance Name

City

Telephone

1994-1995 Enrollment

Current Enrollment

% + or -

Grades

Student/ Teacher Ratio

Powers Catholic

Flint

810.591.4741

881

640

-27.35

9-12

18:1

$7,200

St. John Vianney

Flint

810.235.5687

388

263

-32.22

PK-8

15:1

$3,200

Holy Redeemer †

Burton

810.743.2520

246

-61.38

K-8

12:1

No response

JK-8

18 full-time teachers

$1,825

Tuition*

St. John the Evangelist

Fenton

810.629.6551

243

475

95.47

Holy Rosary ‡

Flint

810.736.4220

240

105

-56.25

K-8

17:1

$3,200

St. Pius X

Flint

810.235.8572

272

172

-36.76

PK-8

No response

Flushing

810.659.2503

444

172

-61.26

PK-8

17:1

$3,359

Holy Family

Grand Blanc

810.694.9072

634

484

-23.66

Young 5-8

24:1 avg

No response

St. Mary

Mt. Morris

810.686.4790

176

106

-39.77

PK-8

11:1

$750

St. Paul

Owosso

989.725.7766

192

152

-20.83

K-8

17:1

No response

Lansing Catholic

Lansing

517.267.2100

510

515

0.98

9-12

16:1

$6945 (Less aid)

IHM/St. Casimir

Lansing

517.882.6631

373

160

-57.1

K-8

15:1

$2,700

Resurrection

Lansing

517.487.0439

215

149

-30.6

PK-8

15:1

$2,950

St. Gerard

Lansing

517.321.5126

556

555

-0.17

PK-8

30:1

$2,045

517.482.1634

203

180

-11.3

PK-8

15:1

No response

St. Therese

Lansing

St. Thomas Aquinas

E. Lansing

517.332.0813

476

320

-32.77

K-8

15:1

No response

St. Mary

Charlotte

517.543.3460

107

-39.25

Young 5-5

13:1

No response

St. Peter

Eaton Rapids

517.663.1799

(2003-2004) 66

-24.24

PK-6

10:1

No response

Most Holy Trinity

Fowler

989.593.2616

102

-11.76

4-8

18:1

No response

St. Michael

Grand Ledge

517.627.2167

156

143

-8.33

Dev. K-8

16:1

$2,015 (Dev. K)

St. Joseph

St. Johns

989.224.2421

326

284

-12.88

K-6

22:1

$2,000

St. Mary

Westphalia

989.587.3702

237

268

13.08

1-6

22:1

$1,881

St. Mary

Willamston

517.655.4038

115

100

-13.04

PK-5

No response

$950

St. Martha

Okemos

517.349.3322

100

190

PK-8

14:1

$3,950

Father Gabriel Richard

Ann Arbor

734.662.0496

226

500

121.24

9-12

16:1

No response

St. Francis

Ann Arbor

734.821.2200

547

446

-18.46

Pk-8

24:1

$3,000

St. Thomas

Ann Arbor

734.769.0911

296

274

-7.43

Pk-8

25:1

$3,150

St. Joseph

Howell

517.546.0090

253

333

31.62

Pk-8

No response

Holy Spirit

Brighton (Hamburg)

810.231.9199

(2002-2003) 15

346.66

Pk-8

17:1

$3,710

St. Patrick

Brighton

810.229.7946

251

No response

1-8

No response

St. Mary

Pinckney

734.878.5616

187

199

6.42

Pk-8

19:1

No response

Lumen Christi

Jackson

517.787.0630

691

530

-23.3

9-12

15:1

$2,772

Jackson Catholic Middle

Jackson

517.784.3385

375

223

-40.53

7-8

No response

St. John Elementary

Jackson

517.784.1714

345

184

-46.66

K-6

20:1

No response

Queen-Miraculous Medal

Jackson

517.782.2664

455

307

-32.53

K-6

22:1

$2,772

St. Mary, Star of the Sea

Jackson

517.784.8811

262

189

-27.86

PK-6

17:1

No response

Our Lady of Fatima

Michigan Center

517.764.2563

156

103

-33.97

PK-6

20:1

$2,475

Sacred Heart

Hudson

517.448.6405

116

52.63

Pk-7

20:1

$2,116

* (in-parish, one child, lowest grade level) See profiles for more information. † Slated to close. ‡ Slated to close unless benchmarks are met.

Remove from magazine with scissors to use as a handy reference guide.

St. Robert Bellarmine

Di e es oc of g in ns La at C ho lic

The state of our Catholic schools

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This special issue is devoted to diocesan and parish schools. There are also other, private Catholic schools located within our diocese.

With a loss of nearly 600 students, schools are tightening budgets and finding ways to do more with less – truly a Catholic school mantra.”

“There’s no clear answer here,” she said. “Whose job is safe now? We have to do what we can to help families. We need to ask: How can we – as a church – help?” With a loss of nearly 600 students, schools are tightening budgets and finding ways to do more with less – truly a Catholic school mantra. Sister Dorita said the diocese will continue to look at schools, regionally, in terms of viability, enrollment and fiscal solvency. “We’re all in the market for kids,” she said. “Working together can definitely help.” Populations continue to dwindle in urban areas, so the diocese will review where populations are and serve those areas with the most people, Sister Dorita said. She said the diocese looks at three areas when determining a school’s viability: enrollment, parent participation and parish support. At the same time, Sister Dorita said that Catholic schools enrich any community or parish. “(Catholic schools) bring a sense of community and caring,” she said. “They also bring a great financial savings to the public sector. Our students bring a sense of hope and faith to our communities.” As schools continue to regionalize, they struggle to maintain their individual identities, Sister Dorita said. “Each school has its own identity,” she said. “They offer a unique atmosphere and they have the freedom to address the needs of their students. No two schools are alike and it has to be that way so that schools can meet the needs of their students.” Ultimately, Catholic schools bring many positive attributes to a community, Sister Dorita said. “Schools lend a great deal to the parish if the pastor and parishioners are willing to support them,” she said. “They have a positive effect on all areas of our community.”

our Catholic schools

he Diocese of Lansing’s 38 elementary and high schools lost 7 percent of their total enrollment in the last year alone. That’s a 5 percent jump in one year. Sister Dorita Wotiska, O.P., Ph.D., department chair and superintendent of Catholic schools for the diocese, said the diocese has asked schools to freeze tuition increases.

Virtually no industry in Michigan has been immune to the effects of the state’s economic crisis. In the wake of economic crisis, Catholic schools around the nation are struggling to survive.

FAITH Magazine / May 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com

Powers Catholic High School

and the parish schools of Genesee and Shiawassee counties

t took a tragedy for David Drury to realize how important his Kairos experience was to survival. He never guessed he would have to rely on the experience again the following year, when tragedy struck his small high school community again. Last year, David attended the Kairos retreat experience, which is optional for Flint Powers High School students. Later that school year, his best friend’s world changed – and so did David’s. “My best friend’s mom and brother were

killed in a car accident. My friend lives with us now. I just felt so helpless. I didn’t know what to do to help him.” David says the experiences of Kairos helped him as he struggled through his friend’s loss at such close proximity. “Kairos has given

8 10 10

Flushing

4 5 9

Owosso

SHIAWASSEE

Flint 1 7

GENESEE Fenton 2 2

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‘Kairos helped me survive’ David Drury – Powers High School, Flint

Powers Catholic High School, Flint Principal: Tom Furnas rg tfurnas@powerscatholic.o 741 1.4 810.59 C. Chan

Student Population: 640 Grades: 9-12 response Classrooms per grade: No er ratio? 18:1 ach t/te den What is your stu a Catholic parish (June 1-May Tuition: Families registered with 1): $600 per month ($7,200) 1): a Catholic parish (June 1-May Families not registered with $660 per month ($7,920)

Educational philosophy: Powers Catholic High School is an integral part of the teaching ministry of the church, serving students of varying abilities and backgrounds. Powers Catholic strives for excellence in education, nurtures self-worth in individuals and encourages commitment to living the Gospel of Jesus Christ through service to church, family and community. Arts curriculum: We offer visual arts, art classes through advanced and AP studio art, ceramics, National Art Honors Society, art club and art shows from various art organization. Visit www.ArtMamaonline.com.

Drama: acting class, extracurricular theater program, theatre camp directed by students for younger students. Music: Instrumental and vocal music, marching band, wind ensemble, MSBOA district and state-level band competitions and choir members participate in MSVMA. Special needs: Powers Student Support Program is an integrated effort on the part of administrators, counselors and parents to help students who have learning difficulties. Working as a team, the Powers staff, with the input of the parent and student, will attempt to develop strategies and accommodations to help the

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Principal: Carla Corrado ccorrado@holyfamilygrandblanc.org 810.694.9072

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boys’ golf, girls’ soccer, softball, girls’ basketball. Regional champions: boys’ golf, girls’ lacrosse, hockey, girls’ golf, boys’ basketball, girls’ basketball. State champions: girls’ golf, girls’ lacrosse. Testing: ACT, PLAN, Explore, AP, NEDT; our students traditionally score high on all standardized tests. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? Powers Catholic High School offers a welcoming family atmosphere that emphasizes values, while providing a nurturing learning environment.

Holy Family, Grand Blanc

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student become a successful learner. Sports: Football (male only), basketball, soccer, swimming/ diving, golf, cross-country, wrestling (male only), volleyball (female only), skiing, cheerleading (female only), dance (female only), lacrosse, hockey (male only), tennis, track, baseball (male only), softball (female only), power lifting, equestrian (female only). We participate in the Big Nine League. We were league champions in Girls’ basketball, softball, hockey, boys’ cross-country, girls’ lacrosse, girls’ soccer. District champions: Boys’ basketball,

at Powers High. “The whole Kairos experience gives you a grateful heart. You learn not to judge people so quickly. You realize the impact of your actions; how the little things you do matter – the smiles you give and how you are to other people – it’s all important.” Molly Ploucha agrees: “For me it’s all about the little things. I pray more when things are tough. I realize how blessed I am that I really haven’t had to deal with some of the things other students have. But mostly, I’m more comfortable just praying.” And Michael Filipovich says his life is different, too: “My outlook on everything has changed,” he says. “I think about what I can do to help someone else. I don’t just think about myself first anymore.” David agrees that timing is important for Kairos: “You can’t go into it expecting a miracle. Kairos teaches you how to communicate with God. You will get to know God on a different level, through different people, places and atmosphere. He will send other people to you all the time, you just have to be aware of it.”

me a new perspective in dealing with people,” David says. “I didn’t know what to say to my friend when the accident happened. I learned that sometimes I don’t have to say anything; just being there is good enough.” Michael Filipovich, Aileen Rowe and Molly Ploucha all agree with David that the lessons learned through Kairos will last a lifetime. They just didn’t realize they would need those lessons so soon. When their friend and classmate, Alexa Woodfield, was killed in a traffic accident this fall, the students’ first inclination was to pray. “We were just all together at the hospital,” David says. “And we just prayed. There wasn’t anything else we could do.” There’s nothing easy about a tragic accident, but, for these students, being together and having the shared experience of Kairos brought some peace. “Just knowing that you’re not the only one dealing with this makes it easier to cope with,” Aileen says. “It was OK to talk about her and to talk about our feelings.” Kairos is more than dealing with tragedy and loss, says Beth Reynolds, health educator and Kairos retreat director

Student population: 484 Grades: Young-5s -8th grade Classrooms per grade: 1 for 5s, 2 for grades 1-5, 7-8, and 3 for grade 6 Student/teacher ratio: 20:1 total, 24:1 avg. per classroom Tuition: No response Educational philosophy: Holy Family Catholic School Community believes each student is a child of God – and challenges each to embrace the Gospel message, to achieve academic excellence and to make a difference in the world. Arts curriculum: We offer music and art through school choir, full-time music teacher, art classes at the Flint Institute of Art and Art Smart Program, art instruction at the school by instructor from the Flint Institute of Art. Special needs: Accommodations made for students with 504s. Students who qualify for IEP receive services from the Grand Blanc Public School Special Education Department. This includes speech services. We have students with autism who receive needed accommodations. Sports: B/G basketball, girls’ softball, boys’ baseball, girls’ volleyball and cheerleading and boys’ football. We participate in the Flint Area Catholic Schools League; 73 percent of students in grades 5-8 played one or more sports. We have a no-cut policy. Although our league is competitive, priority is not placed on league standings or championships. What testing instruments do you use? Gates MacGinitie reading test Grades 1-7 and Iowa Test of Basic Skills Grades 4-8; 87 percent of students who took the Gates MacGinitie test scored at or above their reading vocabulary and comprehension levels. The average scores for the Iowa Basic Skills were: 4th grade, 78 percent; 5th grade, 81 percent; 6th grade, 75 percent; 7th grade, 85 percent; and 8th grade, 77 percent. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? Holy Family has a family-friendly, loving and caring environment. Priests, teachers, staff and parents work together to foster faith formation in our students. Service to others is emphasized at all grade levels. Daily religion classes, twiceweekly Mass, weekly adoration and reconciliation, prayer services and special events for Advent and Lent are part of our curriculum. We have monthly Mass with residents at local nursing homes. Eighty percent of our parents are involved in volunteering at the school or in school-sponsored activities. We have a program for 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds, full-day kindergarten and an extended-care program before and after school. Our students are involved in Quiz Bowl, choir, geography bee, spelling bee, talent show, music programs, Christmas program, Living Stations and 1st grade-8th grade buddies.

Holy Rosary, Flint* Principal: Ken Bachman kenbhr@yahoo.com 810.736.4220 Student population: 85 students 2008-09 / 105 students projected for 2009-10 Grades: Grades K-8, Classrooms per grade: Stand-alone kindergarten, combined classrooms for grades 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8. We also have a separate Holy Rosary preschool program here in the building. Student/teacher ratio: Approximately 16:1. Tuition: In-parish tuition ranges from $3,200 for one child to $6,540 per family. Educational philosophy: Holy Rosary exists for the moral, spiritual and academic development

of our children – a partnership in learning where the Son always shines. Arts curriculum: We pride ourselves in our Drama Department, which involves all students in grades K-8. We also offer school choir, contemporary Christian music and art from the FIA. Special needs: We accommodate children with special needs, through the cooperation of the Kearsley School District. We have an in-school tutoring program and weekly visits from the Kearsley speech pathologist. Sports: We participate in the Flint Area Catholic Schools League and offer sports for boys and girls, including football, basketball, volleyball, baseball, softball and cheerleading. Testing: We administer the Iowa Test of Basic Skills to all students

in grades 4, 6 and 8. Our students traditionally score above the district and national norms. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? It was reported in January 2009 that our school would close in June as a result of declining enrollment, not because of the quality of the educational experience we provide. However, if certain benchmarks are met, Holy Rosary may remain open. For about $265 a month, we offer a quality, Catholic education that combines integrity and morals into every lesson; something that will never depreciate or go out of style. It will guide your child through the rest of his or her life. Give your child the gift of a faith-based education at Holy Rosary Catholic School. * Slated to close unless benchmarks are met.

St. John the Evangelist, Fenton Principal: Michael Kehoe mkehoe@stjohnfenton.com 810.629.6551 Student population: 475 Grades: JK-8 Classrooms per grade: 2 Student/teacher ratio: 18 full-time teachers Tuition: Prices vary depending on number of children per family attending, and whether they are in kindergarten or higher grades. In-parish tuition ranges from $1,825 for one kingergartener to $8,350 for five children. Educational philosophy: We have high academic and behavioral standards, teach the diocesan and state curriculum standards in the six core academic subjects and use a developmental philosophy in the early grades. Arts curriculum: We offer art, vocal music, physical education, computers, Spanish, library, debate team, A World in Motion, Book Bowl, middle-school science fair, art fair and drama programs. Special needs: We have a full-time tutorial (remedial) teacher who helps students with special learning needs, including those identified with learning disabilities or autism syndrome. Sports: Football, basketball (girls and boys), girls’ volleyball, baseball, softball, track and crosscountry. We are in the Flint Area Catholic School League. Our teams do very well. Testing: MEAP and Iowa Test of Basic Skills; our students do very well. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? We have an active parent group, excellent support from the parish and education foundation; we have a scholarship fund to provide tuition assistance on an as-needed basis. Our Christian environment includes anti-bully training and policies and many instructional and participatory experiences to strengthen the Catholic faith.

St. Mary, Mt. Morris Principal: Dennis Winchester YoWinch@aol.com 810.686.4790 Student population: 106 Grades: Pre-school - grade 8; Classrooms per grade: 1 Student/teacher ratio: 11:1 Tuition: Grades PreK-8 parish family range $750 - $7,990 Educational philosophy: Spiritual: We foster a belief in Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Catholic Church, through our weekly liturgies, prepared by individual classes and preparation for the sacraments of penance, Eucharist and confirmation. Academic: We provide not only a core curriculum and mastery of basic skills, but also a variety of enrichment activities that will expose our students to outside programs. Arts curriculum: We offer art and vocal music for K-5 and art electives for 6-8 Special needs: We provide the services offered to us through the public school, as well as psychological evaluations provided for us by a local psychologist. Sports: B/G elementary and junior high basketball; boys’ junior high football; cheerleading for basketball; girls’ junior high volleyball; B/G baseball and softball for elementary and junior high; we participate in the Flint Area Catholic Schools League. Testing: Iowa Test for Basic Skills; we have a students in the 80th and 90th percentile and some in the 50th percentile. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? We offer our students a well-rounded education, with emphasis on the preparation for future growth in religious, academic, social and athletic areas.

school? We have maintained our enrollment for the last six years. We were particularly hurt in enrollment numbers in the 2008-09 school year. We use a student mentor/partner system that enables older and younger students, with opportunities for both. Most school years we have a freshman report card rate of no less than 3.7. g in ns La

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Educational philosophy: The purpose of St. John Vianney Catholic School is to be a faith-filled community that assists families in raising Christian students who, guided by the Holy Spirit, make a difference in our world as caring and educated people with the knowledge and strength necessary to make good decisions. Arts curriculum: Band, Lego Robotics, Boy and Girl Scouts, Chess Club. Special needs: Title I services provided in conjunction with Flint Public Schools. Sports: Basketball, baseball, softball, cheerleading, volleyball, and the Crim festival of race’s first-ever family training program where families can train together for road races throughout the summer. Testing: Iowa Basic Skills. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? St. John Vianney is proud to be home to the most racially and economically diverse school within the city of Flint. Along with this great characteristic, our academics are first class, with more than 90 percent of our elementary school graduates entering into some form of post high school education. Students are challenged to reach their fullest potential in our small classroom sizes, with an emphasis on prayer and becoming responsible citizens beyond the classroom.

Student Population: 263 Grades: Day care -8 Classrooms per grade: 1-2 per grade Student/teacher ratio: 15:1 Tuition: $3,200 for one child, $2,400 for second child and $1,600 for additional children

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Principal: Kathleen Slattery stjohnvianney@comcast.net 810.235.5687

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* Slated to close

Educational philosophy: Holy Redeemer Catholic School is an integral part of the Catholic Church that recognizes each individual as a unique child of God. This faith community works together to provide the development of the total person by creating an atmosphere that nurtures the spiritual, moral, intellectual, emotional, social and physical growth of each member. We assist and guide each student in his/her growth toward internalizing the Gospel of our lord, Jesus Christ, through prayer, study and service. Arts curriculum: Art, Spanish and drama through plays and holiday performances. Special needs: Through our district public schooling, we have received service in speech and language, teacher interventions and occupational therapy. Our parent as-

St. John Vianney, Flint

Student population: 95 Grades: K-8 Classrooms per grade: 1 Student/teacher ratio: 12:1 Tuition: No response

Principal: Maureen Carroll 810.743.2520

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Holy Redeemer, Burton*

sociation pays for the services of a teacher to provide Orton-Gillingham phonic instruction and a Handwriting Without Tears program. Sports: Football, basketball, volleyball, baseball and softball. We participate in the Genesee County Catholic School League Testing: Iowa Test of Basic Skills combined with the GoCat test of abilities; Flint Science Fairs; individual unit testing through curriculum. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your

FAITH Magazine / May 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com

St. Pius X, Flint Principal: R.J. Kaplan spxchool@comcast.net 810.235.8572 Student Population: 172 Grades: PK-8 Classrooms per grade: 1 Student/teacher ratio: 17:1 Tuition: No response Educational philosophy: Our mission is to provide a welcoming, happy, Catholic family environment of learning. Arts curriculum: Band, music, art Special needs: Services for children with learning disabilities, but not for children with autism Sports: cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, basketball and football. Testing: Iowa What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? We are a school that teaches academic formation and virtue formation.

St. Robert Bellarmine, Flushing Principal: Susan Sharp SRSoffice@aol.com 810.659.2503 Student population: 172 Grades: PK-8 Classrooms per grade: 1 Student/teacher ratio: 17:1 Tuition: Range PreK-8 - $459 - $612 Educational philosophy: Our mission is to provide a welcoming, happy, Catholic family environment for learning. Arts curriculum: Band, music and art. Special needs: Yes. No autism services. Sports: girls’ 7th-8th cheerleading and volleyball; boys’ 5th-6th and 7th-8th baseball; B/G 5th-8th basketball; and 7th-8th football. Testing: Iowa Test of Basic Skills What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? We are a school that teaches academic formation, faith formation and virtue formation.

Lansing Catholic High School

and the parish schools of Clinton, Eaton and Ingham counties

T. Gennara

‘God put me on earth for a reason

“I

Lauren LaPine – Lansing Catholic High School

believe everyone has something that God wants them to accomplish in their lives,” said Lauren, a senior at Lansing Catholic High School. “And I strongly believe that mine is to work to better the lives of others.”

has been traveling to the area since 2000 with medical students from Michigan State University. They work with Angel Notion, a local nonprofit organization, to help treat cleft lip and palate problems. The girls left Lansing to find a world that was starkly different than the one they know. “I was really surprised by the exceedingly large difference between my life and theirs,” For Lauren and her classmate, Lauren says. Hannah Decker, working to better During their stay, the girls 11 St. Johns the lives of others meant bringhelped evaluate patients at 4 ing two Mexican toddlers to Angel Notion. They got to Fowler Lansing this fall for cleft lip know some of the families 12 12 Westphalia or palate surgery. whose children suffered Lauren says, “During from cleft lip and palate CLINTON the Kairos retreat, we problems. talked about how you It was the subse9 could give back and quent Kairos retreat 8 5 2 8 1414 Okemos 2 7 I started to think … experience that 7 Grand Ledge 10 Williamston 6 LANSING ‘what if I could do opened Lauren’s eyes 13 EATON something?’” to God’s plan. Her journey started “Kairos made me 1 Eaton Rapids several weeks before Charlotte realize how incred33 INGHAM her Kairos retreat, ibly blessed I am in when she and Hanthe life that I lead. My nah traveled to Playa parents told me this all del Carmen, Mexico, a the time, but one of the Lansing Catholic High School and the parish schools of Clinton, Eaton and resort town in the Yucatan key things that I got out Ingham counties — 1. St. Mary, Charlotte | 2. St. Thomas Aquinas, East Lansing | 3. Peninsula where the native of Kairos was that God put St. Peter Catholic School, Eaton Rapids | 4. Most Holy Trinity, Fowler | 5. St. Michael, Grand Ledge | 6. Immaculate Heart of Mary/St. Casimir, Lansing | 7. Resurrection, Mayan residents live in me on earth for a reason.” Lansing | 8. St. Gerard, Lansing | 9. St. Therese, Lansing | 10. St. Martha School, impoverished conditions. Upon their return from Okemos | 11. St. Joseph, St Johns | 12. St. Mary, Westphalia | 13. St. Mary, Williamston | 14. Lansing Catholic Central High School, Lansing Lauren’s father, Peter, Mexico, and after partici-

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Lansing Catholic High School, Lansing

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Educational philosophy: Lansing Catholic High School forms students spiritually, intellectually and socially into faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. Motto: Teaching a Way of Life. Motto: Be it known to all who enter here that Christ is the reason for this school, the unseen but ever-present teacher in its classrooms, the model of its faculty and the inspiration of its students. Arts curriculum: We offer marching band, concert band, choir, honors choir, music appreciation, jazz band, drama, drafting and advanced drafting, crafts, digital photography, design, sculpture, broadcasting, creative writing, editorial journalism, computer graphic technology courses, drawing and painting. Special needs: Skills class (organization, timemanagement, etc), mastery skills, mandatory after-school study hall, peer tutoring, Lansing School District support staff, two full-time school counselors.

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Student population: 515 Grades: 9-12 Classrooms per grade: N/A Student/teacher ratio: 16:1 945. Typical Tuition: Cost to educate is $6, ool developsch 0 $95 r afte 395 $5, is n tuitio subsidies of sh pari rage ave and ment discount ilies receive fam of $600. More than 25 percent ce. tuition assistan

Principal: Thomas Maloney maloney@lansingcatholic.org 517.267.2100

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pating in the Kairos retreat, Lauren and Hannah knew what they had to do. “After I returned from Mexico, I couldn’t sit by while I knew the kids I met still needed help,” Hannah says. “I knew I could impact their lives in a very positive way.” After consulting with Dr. LaPine, the girls began a fundraising campaign to bring two children to Lansing for surgery. The medical consultation and surgery were donated, but the girls raised $5,000 for travel, accommodations and expenses for the families. The Kairos experience served as an impetus for Lauren and Hannah. “I wouldn’t call Kairos a turning point; it’s better described as a totally new beginning,” Lauren says. “Kairos opened my eyes to what being Catholic really meant, and how it could change my life. For me, it was really like a new, fresh start. “I understand that I may make a very miniscule impact on someone’s life, but I also believe that everyone just needs a little inspiration, and that good can come from the smallest of acts and flourish into something much greater.” Lauren credits Lansing Catholic Campus Ministry Director Doug Moore and Chaplain Father Joe Krupp with helping her and Hannah see where else they can volunteer. “They helped me learn that my faith doesn’t just live in the church, but in my everyday life as well.” The girls are returning to Mexico over spring break to reconnect with their charges and continue their work.

FAITH Magazine / May 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com

Sports: Football, boys’ and girls’ tennis, boys’ and girls’ soccer, boys’ and girls’ cross country, girls’ volleyball, boys’ and girls’ golf, sideline cheerleading, girls’ and boys’ swimming and diving, girls’ and boys’ basketball, hockey, boys’ and girls’ bowling, competitive cheerleading, baseball, softball, boys’ and girls’ track and field and boys’ and girls’ lacrosse. Intramural basketball, ski club, boys’ volleyball and figure skating. We participate in the Capital Area Activities Conference, White Division. Last year we won: boys’ basketball state championship, bowling (individual) state championship, boys’ tennis (individual) state championship and numerous league, district and regional championships. Testing: MME, ACT, SAT. Lansing Catholic is No.1 in every subject area for MME testing in the Greater Lansing area. MME Scores: Math - 83.5, (state avg. 46.2), Reading - 93.4 (state avg 61.9), Science - 91 (state avg. 56.6), Social Studies - 97.5 (state avg. 79.9), Writing - 89.3 (state avg. 41.1) English - 92.6 (state avg. 52.3) ACT - avg. 23.7 (state avg. 21.5), SAT - critical reading - avg. 612 (state avg. 568), math - avg. 605 (state avg. 583) What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? Lansing Catholic provides a faithbased, academically rigorous, socially relevant education. Our students continue to lead the way with faith, service, athletics and academics. To find out more, contact our Admissions Office at 517.267.2102.

What is Kairos? Kairos is a peer-led retreat centered around the Ignatian concept of finding God in all things. Kairos is adapted from the Cursillo program and is designed to help participants deepen their personal relationship with God. The peer leaders are Kairos alumni who have volunteered their time. Kairos consists of major talks and small group discussions. Activities are held to promote community, to build a sense of reflection, and to encourage trust. A major theme in Kairos is the Ignatian motto, “Love is shown in deeds more than words.” Participants often return from a retreat energized to give back to their churches, families and communities. Many students describe Kairos as a life- and faith-altering experience. They often remain in touch with fellow retreatants for years. For more information about your school’s Kairos program, contact your child’s theology teacher.

St. Thomas Aquinas, East Lansing Principal: Jane Bilas jbilas@stachurch.net 517.332.0813 Student population: 320 Grades: K-8 Classrooms per grade: 2 Student/teacher ratio: 15:1 Tuition: No response Educational philosophy: We believe each child is a special gift from God, an individual to love, nurture and guide to his or her greatest potential. We believe the purpose of St. Thomas Aquinas School is to assist parents with the spiritual, intellectual,

emotional, physical and cultural development of the child, within the guidelines of Catholic teachings and moral values. We believe the school’s academic program provides quality education to develop the foundations for students to become lifelong Christian learners. Arts curriculum: Full-time art teacher Special needs/Autism: Both through East Lansing Public Schools . Sports: Basketball (girls and boys- grades 5-8), softball (girls - grades 7-8), baseball (boys - grades 7-8), volleyball (girls - grades 4-8), cross country (girls and boys - grades 5-8), cheerleading (girls - grades 6-8), Junior Hoops (girls and boys- grades 2-4). In what league do you participate? Catholic Youth League. What testing instruments do you use? Iowa. How did your students do? School building average was in the 80th percentile. What else would you like prospective

St. Mary, Westphalia Principal: Raymond Rzepecki rmrzepecki@stmaryschool.us 989.587.3702 Student population: 268 Grades: 1-6 Classrooms per grade: 2 Student/teacher ratio: 22:1 Tuition: $1,881 per year for one child, $3,420 for two children, $4,219 for three children. Educational philosophy: We are committed to providing our students with an excellent Christ-centered education. We are here to assist parents with the spiritual, intellectual, social, and physical development of their children. Students attend Mass and Eucharistic Adoration weekly. We provide students with many service opportunities and faith formation activities. St. Mary School provides a safe learning environment where your child can develop their intellectual skills and grow in their love of God and others. Arts curriculum: We offer art, music, band, computers and library. PE and Spanish are offered after school. Special needs: Students with learning disabilities may attend the resource room at Pewamo Elementary. Reading support is provided by two of our teachers for grades 1-3. A paraprofessional works in all classrooms. Testing: MEAP grades 3-6 and the Iowa Test of Basic Skills grades 4-6. Our students usually score as Advanced or Proficient on the MEAP tests. They also score in the upper percentile ranks for the ITBS. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? St. Mary School, Westphalia is the oldest Catholic school in the Diocese of Lansing.

students’ parents to know about your school? As the 2008-09 school year comes to a close, we are happy to report that the state of St. Thomas Aquinas School is strong! Strong in dedication to our belief that every child is a special gift from God, an individual to love, nurture and guide to his or her greatest potential. Strong in our belief that the purpose of St. Thomas Aquinas School is to assist parents with the spiritual, intellectual, emotional, physical and cultural development of the child within the guidelines of Catholic teachings and moral values. Strong in our commitment that the school’s academic programs provide quality education to develop the foundations for students to become life-long learners. Strong in the commitment of our clergy, administration, teachers, staff, parents, and benefactors to provide an outstanding faith-based education.

St. Therese, Lansing Principal: Christopher Smith csmith@sttherese.org 517.482.1634 Student population: 180 Grades: Pre-K-8 Classrooms per grade: No response Student/teacher ratio: 15:1 Tuition: No response Educational philosophy: St. Therese Parish School is part of a faith community whose mission is to support spiritually, academically, emotionally, socially and physically all those who strive to learn, love and live their faith in God. In union with

parents and parish, we provide a strong traditional academic program in a safe, nurturing environment for preschool through eighth grade. Arts curriculum: Through the shared-time program with Lansing Public Schools. We offer drawing, painting, video commercials, working with clay and more. Special needs: Through the Lansing School District’s special education services and Erickson Learning Center. Our class sizes also allow us to meet student needs within the classroom through a variety of accommodations. Sports: Basketball, baseball and softball. We participate in the Catholic Youth League and junior cougar teams. Testing: Measures of Academic Progress, a computer-based assessment program correlated to the MEAP (results within 48 hours), Iowa Tests. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? Our students strive to live a virtue of one saint each month of the school year to help them form habits of virtue and grow in holiness. The students also have an opportunity for Mass each Friday, adoration of the Blessed Sacrament every first Friday and daily morning corporate prayer, as well as the Angelus/Regina Coeli at mid-day. Middle-school students go on retreat every year. In cooperation with Lansing Catholic and Dean Transportation, we offer transportation from St. Johns and

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The department chair and superintendent of Catholic schools for the diocese will retire in June. She has been with the diocese for 27 years. At one time or another, Sister Dorita has overseen several programs, including Catholic schools, youth ministry, young adult ministry, campus ministry, religious education, adult formation, RCIA, evangelization, worship, lay ministry, seminarians and the diaconate. “In the time that I’ve been here, we have made significant strides in lay ministry positions,” she said. “We were able to help people taking on parish positions by giving them background information and knowledge of the church.” She said young adult ministry and the school accreditation are other bright spots. “It’s been beneficial to work with the schools, the principals. I am proud of our school accreditation process,” she said. The challenges are many, however, she said. “Coupled with the economic decline and cultural changes, I worry about the decline in enrollment in our schools,” she said. There has been a shift in values and culture during her nearly three decades, she said. She sees that shift as having a large impact on all phases of religious education programs and schools. “Finding well-qualified principals to fill jobs will also be a challenge,” she said. “Managing a Catholic school is very different than managing a public school.” She cited funding, personnel and

working through the safety requirements as other significant challenges. For Sister Dorita, though, the bright spots outweigh the challenges. During her tenure, at least three new schools were built. “For me, seeing Gabriel Richard High School relocate and rebuild at a new site was rewarding. A lot of time and energy went into that project,” she said. “Building and relocating St. Patrick’s in Brighton and St. Mary’s in Pinckney have also been rewarding.” Sister Dorita said she also is thrilled to see that, regionally, schools are begin-

s Sister Dorita Wotiska, O.P., Ph.D., wraps up nearly 30 years at the Diocese of Lansing, she takes a few moments to reflect on changes, challenges and bright spots in her career.

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Diocese of Lansing Superintendent of Schools

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Farewell, Sister Dorita

ning to work together – in Lansing, Flint and Jackson. “That collaboration is another bright spot, too.” Other notable achievements during Sister Dorita’s tenure include St. Gerard School earning the School of Distinction designation from the Michigan Association of Non-Public Schools and Lansing Catholic High School earning the Blue Ribbon designation from the U.S. Department of Education. Following her retirement in June, Sister Dorita will finish up a few projects through the summer and then take a bit of time off. “Maybe I’ll travel,” she said. “I’ll rest for a couple of months, re-group and hopefully begin teaching again.” She said focusing on teaching administrators through the use of case studies – in her case, real-life studies – can be the way she continues to serve.

Resurrection, Lansing

St. Martha, Okemos

Principal: Shannon Kahne resurrectionschool@comcast.net 517.487.0439

Principal: Francie Herring schoolprincipal@st-martha.org 519.349.3322

Student population: Pre-school: 30; K-8: 149. Grades: PK-8 Classrooms per grade: 1 Student/teacher ratio: 15:1 Tuition: In-parish rates: $2,950 (1), $3,650 (2), $4,150 (3 or more). Families belonging to a parish without a school, who are active and in good standing with their parish are eligible for the in-parish tuition.

Student population: 190 Grades: PK through 8 Classrooms per grade: 1 Student/teacher ratio: 14:1 Tuition: $3,950 for the first student, $1,975 for the second student, no additional tuition for additional students. Non-parishioner rate is $4,450 per student.

Educational philosophy: The Resurrection School family seeks to meet the spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotional and social needs of its students to develop lifelong learners. By integrating Catholic values through knowledge and opportunities, our school strives to provide a nurturing Catholic environment that promotes opportunities for student growth, and inspires students to make positive contributions to society. Arts curriculum: We participate in the shared time program with the Lansing School District. We offer Spanish, physical education, music, band, art and computer. Special needs: Using our Title I funding, we pay to have a turor from Erickson Learning Center work with our students in the areas of reading and math. Students with learning disabilities (autism, Asperger’s, ADHD, etc.) remain in the regular classroom setting. We have access to consultants from the Lansing School District who provide our teachers with ideas and resources to help all students succeed. Sports: Basketball, cheerleading, softball, baseball, middleschool track, soccer, volleyball and football. We participate in the Catholic Youth League and Junior Cougars. Testing: Iowa Test of Basic Skills. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? We have a family-friendly environment, diverse student body, strong family community and teacher/ parent partnership, and good parental involvement. Numerous valedictorians from Eastern High School and Lansing Catholic attended Resurrection School – four of the top 10 2007-08 graduates from Lansing Catholic were Resurrection alumni.

Educational philosophy: All children can learn and will be given the opportunity to learn in a nurturing, faith-filled environment. Arts curriculum: We offer a fine arts curriculum second to none. Spanish, art, vocal music, strings, band, guest artists and musicians and theater groups. Special needs: Special services are provided by Okemos Public Schools. We have an autism specialist who counsels the teachers. Sports: Soccer, football, basketball, volleyball, softball and baseball. Grades 5-8 participate in the Catholic Youth League. Testing: Iowa Test of Basic Skills grades 3-8. Our students continually attain high scores. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? St. Martha students compete in MATHCOUNTS and MathFacts. In 2009, St. Martha School swept the top three team honors in the state competition. St. Martha School has both a longer day (8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.) and a longer year (200 days) than most schools – equating to a full month of extra learning. We endeavor to meet the needs of all students through accelerated learning, after-school math club, drama club and the finest vocal music program in the area.

Immaculate Heart of MarySt. Casimir, Lansing Principal: Judith Meerschaert meerschaertj@ihmlansing. org 517.882.6631 Student population: 160 Grades: K-8 Classrooms: 1 Student/teacher ratio:15:1 Tuition: $2,700 to $9,350 Educational philosophy: Our goal is to provide a well-rounded education to all students in a safe, loving and faith-filled environment. Arts curriculum: We offer art, band and music through the Lansing share-time pro-

gram with the Lansing Public Schools. A spring play is performed by middle school students and a winter concert is produced during Catholic Schools Week. Special needs: We provide limited services for learning disabilities and speech through Lansing Public Schools. Sports: Our elementary students participate in sports through the Lansing Parks and Recreation Department. This year, both of our hockey teams received the Sportsman Award. Testing: Iowa Test of Basic Skills; we just finished testing and have not received our results for this year. Several of our students have been identified as gifted through this testing. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? Our school climate is friendly, welcoming and safe. We are currently enrolling for next year at all grade levels. Invest in your child’s future today!

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The new superintendent of Catholic Schools is

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As the newly appointed superintendent of the Diocese of Lansing’s Catholic schools, Father Steve said his first challenge is to learn about the schools

and help foster in them a “culture of love of learning and love of God.” Father Steve takes over his new, part-time role on July 1. He retains his position as pastor of St. Mary Queen of Angels in Swartz Creek. Ordained in 2005, Father Steve served as associate pastor of St. Thomas Aquinas in East Lansing until February 2008, when he was named pastor at St. Mary. Prior to studying for the priesthood, Father Steve was principal of Grattan Academy, a K-8 charter school in West Michigan. He taught at Lansing Community College and Michigan State

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Father Steve Mattson

elping parents “to train up their children in the way they should go” is Father Steve Mattson’s next challenge. It’s a tall order, but one for which Father Steve is well-prepared.

University. Father Steve earned a doctorate in curriculum, instruction and educational policy from Michigan State University. Additionally, he earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from MSU. He holds a master’s of divinity from the University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary in Illinois. His dissertation – “Changing Metaphors: Instructional Reform as Evangelism” – reflects his philosophy of education. He says, “The way change happens is through inviting people to embrace good news, whether that’s the Gospel or a potentially better way to teach and learn in schools. “Catholic schools should be doing what every Christian should be doing – helping children learn to love their God and their faith. It has to be about Jesus.When we do that, we’re providing something that our families cannot get anywhere else. “I see my role as a servant of pastors, principals, Catholic parents and teachers to help them accomplish their goal of training up children in the love of God and the practice of the Catholic faith.” The nation’s Catholic schools face challenges of funding and affordability, and the Diocese of Lansing is no different. Father Steve plans to study what approaches are working well in our diocese and will investigate how strategies for school funding in other dioceses might be applicable here. But Father Steve sees another challenge facing Catholic schools: “The challenge is for us to win families to the truth that our faith is fundamental,” he says. “As Catholics we have been blessed with a great wedding of faith and reason. Our Catholic faith should inform everything we do and the way we approach the teaching of all our subject matter. One challenge is evangelizing families in our parishes to help them come to a deeper faith and equip them to make fundamental connections between their faith and Catholic education.” The “felt needs” of funding and affordability can provide opportunities for creative alternatives that may work in the Diocese of Lansing, Father Steve says. “It’s important to recognize that our parishes that have schools are doing a tremendous service for all of us. Parishes with schools serve the common good.”

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St. Mary, Charlotte Principal: Anthony Perrini stmaryprincipal@sbcglobal.net 517.543.3460 Student population: 65 Grades: Young-Fives-4; next year, grade 5 will be added; 54 students are presently signed up Classrooms per grade: No response Student/teacher ratio:13:1 Tuition: No response Educational philosophy: We seek to shape hearts and minds in the service of Christ. Maintaining our Catholic Christian identity is very important to us and is ingrained in all aspects of our education. Arts curriculum: We offer art, music and library. Special needs: No response Sports: PE.

St. Mary, Williamston

St.Paul, Owosso

Principal: Katherine White Stmarys@cablespeed.com 517.655.4038

Principal: Merry Jane Robertson principal@spsowosso.org 989.725.776

Student population: Approximately 100 Grades: PreK – 5 Classrooms per grade: No response Student/teacher ratio: No response Tuition: Preschool to grade 5, range is $950 to $4,825. Educational philosophy: The school fosters intellectual, physical, emotional and spiritual growth through service to community, church and family, as well as offering a strong curriculum. Arts curriculum: Art, music and computer. Special needs: A cooperative relationship is evident with the local special education department. Sports: PE instruction onsite through an arrangement with the Williamston Community Schools. Testing: Iowa Test of Basic Skills; our students consistently score well. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? Child care is available before and after school. A summer program is offered. An active parish and parent group helps create a caring family atmosphere.

Student Population:152 Grades: K-8 Classrooms per grade: 1 Student/teacher ratio: 17:1 Tuition: No response Educational philosophy: Our goal is to prepare children to be responsible and productive members of their community. We do this by providing a quality academic education in an atmosphere where Christian moral principles are learned and lived. We promote a Catholic community of faith by stressing respect and responsibility for one’s self, as well as concern and compassion for others. Arts curriculum: We offer a network multi-media computer lab, a middle-school broadcasting class and music. Special needs: Yes, a speech therapist, physical therapist and special education teacher provide services to qualified learning disability students. Sports: Football, basketball, volleyball and golf are available for grades 5-8. Testing: No response.

Most Holy Trinity, Fowler Principal: Anne Hufnagel annehufn@edzone.net 989.593.2616 Student population: 90 Grades: 4-8 Classrooms per grade: 1 Student/teacher ratio: 18:1 Tuition: No response Educational philosophy: Connecting faith to life. Arts curriculum: Arts curriculum is offered by public school (shared time). Special needs: Our students receive services through the

public school. Sports: Sport is a cooperative program with the public school. Testing: MEAP and Iowa; typically 90 percent or more score a 1 or 2 on MEAP. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? We currently have three former graduates in the seminary and one in the diaconate program. The school has produced 19 priests, three brother/deacons and more than 40 nuns.

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FAITH Magazine / May 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com

Student population: 50 Grades: PreK-6 Classrooms per grade: No response Student/teacher ratio: 10:1 Tuition: No response

Principal: Kathleen Chistesen kpchristesen@yahoo.com 517.663.1799

St. Peter, Eaton Rapids

Educational philosophy: St. Peter Catholic School, in partnership with parents and guardians, is committed to academic excellence and the formation of Christian values. Students are encouraged to be respectful, to achieve academically at their greatest potential and to become true Christians who serve God and others. Arts curriculum: Art, music and Spanish. Special needs: No. Sports: None. Testing: Iowa Test of Basic Skills. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? We are small, but have a great educational experience to offer to all students.

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Educational philosophy: Each child is a unique gift from God and a relationship with God should be fully integrated into the life of every student. It is our purpose to assist parents in the spiritual, social, and intellectual development of their child within the framework of Catholic teachings and moral values.

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Educational philosophy: St. Gerard School is a Catholic educational community dedicated to the mission entrusted by Jesus Christ to the church. Our community provides an environment that helps to instill sound ideals, morals and values as guided by the Gospel of Jesus Christ. To bring this about, we work toward developing a program that will acknowledge and accept the responsibility to nurture the academic, spiritual, cultural and physical growth of each student, while allowing him or her to advance according to his or her own unique and personal talents. Arts curriculum: We offer band, music choir, art, handbells, scrapbooking and pysanky (Ukrainian Easter eggs). Special needs: We support IEPs and children with 504 plans through our local school district. Sports: Basketball, cheerleading, track, softball, cross-country, football, golf, soccer, volleyball, baseball. We participate in the Catholic Youth League. What testing instruments do you use? Iowa Test of Basic Skills; 2009 results are not available. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? We were awarded the School of Distinction honor through the Michigan Association of Non-Public Schools. We provide enrichment opportunities through 4th grade camp, 7th grade Chicago trip and 8th grade Washington, D.C., trip.

Student population: 284 Grades: K-6 Classrooms per grade: 2 Student/teacher ratio: 22:1 Tuition: $2,000 to $4,290

Student population: 555 Grades: PK-8 Classrooms per grade: 2 Student/teacher ratio: PK- 8:1, K-26:1, all others- 30:1 Tuition: Parishioner rate for one child is $2,045; non-parishioner rate is $4,700.

Principal: Tomi Ann Schultheiss tas@stjoecatholic.com 989.224.2421

Arts curriculum: We offer a certified art teacher and music teacher for all grades. We offer art, music for all grades, band and orchestra for grades 5-6 and an annual Christmas program and a spring musical. Special needs: We have a resource room teacher for all students with learning disabilities and a Title I teacher for reading and math instruction. A speech therapist, occupational therapist, school psychologist and school social worker from our local RESA work regularly at the school with students who are eligible for their services. Several staff members have been trained in intervention strategies with students with autism and others have had intensive training for autism spectrum disorders. Sports: 5th and 6th grade boys’ and girls’ basketball. We participate in the Lansing Area Catholic Youth League. Testing: Iowa Test of Basic Skills is administered to grades 4 and 6. Our composite scores for our school averaged at the 80th percentile – a full 13 points above the predicted score for our students.

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Principal: Michelle Piecuch mpiecuch@stgerard.org 517.321.6126

St. Joseph, St. Johns

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St. Gerard, Lansing

Fr. Gabriel Richard High School

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and the parish schools of Livingston and Washtenaw counties

From blaming God to talking with him

Anthony Orians – Father Gabriel Richard High School, Ann Arbor

cluded into my ‘this isn’t fun’ group of friends,” he recalled. elieving in God was easy when At one point in the retreat, though, Anthony says he Anthony Orians started to realize just how poorly he had been treatwas young. ing “those who loved me the most.” LIVINGSTON Then he started “I felt like a bad person,” he says. “And to blame God for his infant then, I realized I’m not going to hear God’s voice in my ear.” brother’s death. 4 2

“I felt him – in the people around me. I knew he was 4 1 there. I never felt like that Brighton before. My prayer was finally 4 4 4 3 answered,” he says. Hamburg Pinckney It’s not easy to change. Anthony has learned that WASHTENAW not everyone appreciated the changes in his life. 7 “Since then, I’ve lost a Ann Arbor few friends,” he says. “I’m 6 not different at the core 5 level, but I’ve cleaned up a lot of things in my life.” Anthony says he now finds huge comfort in prayer and recognizes the importance of the Eucharist – more than ever Fr. Gabriel Richard High School and the parish schools of Livingston and before. Washtenaw counties — 1. St. Patrick, Brighton | 2. St. Joseph, Howell | 3. St. “I just don’t want to be Mary, Pinckney | 4. Holy Spirit, Hamburg | 5. St. Francis of Assisi, Ann Arbor | 6. St. Thomas the Apostle, Ann Arbor | 7. Fr. Gabriel Richard High School, Ann Arbor separated from God anyHowell

Despite his Catholic education, Anthony didn’t talk to God much any more. “I wanted an answer, and I never got that voice in my ear that I wanted,” he says. “I didn’t feel God, I didn’t look for him and I didn’t like him much.” After “faking” his way though most Masses, prayer and the like, Anthony joined his classmates at Father Gabriel Richard High School’s required Kairos retreat experience. Even a day into the retreat, Anthony says he had his doubts. “I still stayed pretty se-

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Father Gabriel Richard High School, Ann Arbor

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Principal: Brian Wolcott bwolcott@fgrhsaa.org 734.662.0496

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more,” he says. He described his reconnection with God like reconnecting with an old friend – awkward at first, but something that becomes easier as time goes on. Anthony has taken his conversion seriously and has apologized to people that he may have hurt or offended – including his theology teacher, Carolyn Kitz. “I saw how Anthony’s heart had been touched, and how he seemed more peaceful than I’d known him to be for two years and I was really glad,” Kitz says. “Of course, as a teacher, it’s nice to have students own up to their attitudes and behaviors, but in Anthony’s case I was just really, really glad to see his life touched by Jesus.” Anthony agreed that he is more peaceful. “I’ve just let go of a lot of spite and hate,” Anthony says. “I’m trying to put a lot more emphasis on the important relationships in my life.” Anthony counts his relationship with his sister as one that deteriorated because of him. “She went to college last year and I just let her go … I didn’t call or e-mail. I realized it was my fault and I need to fix that.” Anthony says he was looking forward to spending time with his sister to repair their relationship. Although he credits Kairos with giving him the opportunity to change, he knows that it takes persistence and hard work to keep his relationship with God strong. Next year, when he heads off to the U.S. Marine Corps, he knows that these qualities will serve him well, as will his relationship with God.

FAITH Magazine / May 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com

Student population: 500 Grades: 9-12 total classrooms Classrooms per grade: 30 1 16: o: Student/teacher rati Tuition: No response

Educational philosophy: As a school community, we are educating the whole student in mind, body and spirit. “We are all forming all of our students all of the time.” Arts curriculum: We offer award-winning vocal courses, instrumental arts, visual arts, drama, advanced placement in the visual arts and Music Ministry class. Special needs: We have a full-time teacherconsultant with a master’s degree in special education. This person directs the academic resource room and works with individual students as well as groups of students in working with accommodations. This person also liaisons with the Ann Arbor Public Schools in providing testing and evaluations for our students as well as conducting IEPs and 504 plans. Sports: B/G golf, cross country, soccer, tennis, basketball, bowling, track lacrosse; girls cheerleading, volleyball, softball; and boys’ hockey, baseball and football. We participate in the Catholic League. Last year we brought in: 9 Catholic League Sectional Champion-

ships in men’s varsity soccer, men’s freshmen basketball, men’s JV basketball, men’s varsity basketball, women’s freshmen basketball, women’s soccer, men’s track, men’s golf; 5 Catholic League Championships in women’s cross country (5th consecutive title), men’s cross country, men’s varsity basketball, men’s golf, women’s track; and 3 Catholic League Championships (runner-up) in men’s tennis, men’s hockey, and softball; 3 district titles in men’s varsity basketball, women’s varsity basketball, women’s soccer; 1 district runner-up title in men’s golf; 2 regional titles in men’s basketball, women’s track and state championship in women’s track. Testing: HSPT (for entrance exam), PLAN, PSAT, MOIS, Advanced Placement Exams, MME – ACT, and SAT. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? We were recently voted one of the nation’s TOP 50 Catholic High Schools for 2008-09 for academic excellence, Catholic identity and civic education.

St. Joseph, Howell Principal: Kathleen Freeman freeman@ stjosephhowell.com 517.546.0090 Student population: 333 in K-8, 58 in pre-school Grades: K-8, plus a preschool Classrooms per grade: No response Student/teacher ratio: No response. Tuition: No response. Educational philosophy: St. Joseph School in Howell has been preparing children to meet

spiritual, academic and social challenges for more than 50 years. Arts curriculum: Our fine arts curriculum includes art, music and Spanish for all of our students (K-8) and we offer choir (K-8), band and strings (4-8). All of our students also enjoy computer education, physical education and library classes. Special needs: Our teachers challenge each child to progress as far as he or she is able to during the school year individualizing and accommodating instruction for those who learn quickly and those who learn slowly. Sports: Co-ed soccer, volleyball, boys’ and girls’ basketball and co-ed track teams. We participate in MMIAA. Testing: Iowa Test of Basic Skills and MEAP; our MEAP scores have been the highest in Livingston County for the last six years.

Holy Spirit, Brighton (Hamburg) Principal: Anna Piccirillo Loewe principal@stpatschool.org 810.231.9199 Student population: 67 Grades: Pre-kindergarten to grade 8 Student/teacher ratio: 17:1 Tuition: Range is $3,710 to $7,550 Educational philosophy: Our school is family-oriented and committed to the work of educating children in partnership with their families. The dual objectives of leading children to Catholic and human perfection take place in an educational environment in which practicing the truth of the Catholic faith is central to the development of each child. Arts curriculum: We offer art, music, computer and French Special needs: We provide special services for LD students through Livingston Educational Services Agency Sports: Basketball team and PE classes. Testing: Iowa Test of Basic Skills.

St. Patrick, Brighton Principal: Lorelei Darga principal@stpatschool.org 810.229.7946 Student Population: No response Grades: 1-8 Classrooms per grade: No response Student/teacher ratio: No response Tuition: No response Did not respond; school Web site is under construction.

St. Mary, Pinckney Principal: John Gilboe jgilboe@stmarypinckney.org 734.878.5616 Student population: Pre-school: 26, K-8: 173 Grades: K-12 and pre-school Classrooms per grade: 1 each for pre3, pre-4, young 5 and K-8 (2 for second grade) Student/teacher ratio:19:1 Tuition: No response Educational philosophy: St. Mary School proclaims the Gospel of Jesus Christ; and encourages students to live their Catholic faith

through the sacraments, prayers and devotions of the Catholic Church. Arts curriculum: We offer music and art. Special needs: We work in conjunction with Pinckney Community Schools and the LESA. Sports: Coed soccer, girls’ JV and varsity volleyball, girls’ and boys’ JV and varsity basketball, cheerleading. We participate in the Mid-Michigan Independent Athletic Association. We did very well last year. We have won many tournament and league championships. Testing: MEAP in grades 7-8; Iowa in grades 4-8; our students 90-100 percent meet or exceed all goals in MEAP; and our students compare favorably with other Catholic schools in the county in the Iowa test. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? It is the mission of St. Mary Catholic School to be a partner with parents in the spiritual and academic education of their children.

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St. Francis, Ann Arbor

Principal: Sara Collins scollins@stfrancisa2.org 734.821.2200

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Student Population: 446 Grades: Preschool-8 Classrooms per grade: 2 per grade for kindergarten through 8th grade and one preschool class Student/teacher ratio: 24:1 Tuition: In-parish tuition ranges from $3,000 for one child in kindergarten to $13,400 for five children from the same family. Educational philosophy: St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School is a family-centered ministry of the St. Francis of Assisi Parish community where each student is valued, respected and nurtured as a unique creation of God. We challenge our students spiritually, academically and physically to learn, care and lead as they work to discover the plan that God intends for them. As followers of Christ, we strive always to instill in our students the words of St. Francis of Assisi: “Preach the Gospel always, and when necessary use words.” Arts curriculum: We offer art, general music, choir, musical theater, drama, band, and a strings program. Our Music Department performs several different shows throughout the year featuring students involved in the drama and musical theater classes, as well as both our elementary and middle school choirs. All students in 5th and 6th grade take band; in middle school, band is an elective for students. Our strings program is held after school twice a week for any interested students in kindergarten through 6th grade. All students in preschool through 5th grade have weekly art and music instruction; in middle school, art is offered as an elective. Special needs: We are able to provide regular classroom services to some students on the autism spectrum or with other learning disabilities, depending up the severity of the need. Enrollment is handled on a case by case basis. We are working toward having more of our teachers trained in best practices for students who learn differently. We also have a parish child counselor available to work with students with needs in the area of social skills training. This program is for parishioners of St. Francis and fees are based on a sliding scale according to income. Sports: For boys, we offer flag football, basketball, track and cross country. For girls, we offer cheerleading, basketball, volleyball, track and cross country. Both boys and girls are invited to participate in our award-winning jump rope team called the Heartbeats. The Heartbeats have performed at halftime shows for the Detroit Pistons and the University of Michigan men’s basketball team this year and they participate in a national competition every year in Florida. Our other sports teams have won numerous trophies at local tournaments this school year. All teams follow a no-cut policy. Testing: Our students take the MEAP and Iowa Test of Basic Skills. This past year, St. Francis ranked in the upper 25 percent (composite scores) of students who took the Iowa Test. Our MEAP scores were in the 70th-90th percentile in every grade and subject. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? Our school offers a fully equipped science lab and two computer labs, as well as computers in every classroom. All students take Spanish classes beginning in preschool. We are currently accepting registrations for the 200910 school year. Please visit our Web site at www.stfrancisa2. com/school for more information. You may also e-mail us at stfschool@rc.net or call 734.821.2200.

St. Thomas the Apostle, Ann Arbor Principal: Tony Moskus tmoskus@ stthomasannarbor.org 734.769.0911 Student population: 274 Grades: PreK-8 Classrooms per grade: Three preschool rooms, two kindergarten rooms; one room each for grades 1-8 Student/teacher ratio: 25:1 Tuition: Grades PreK-8 parish family tuition ranges from $3,150 – $10,620 Educational philosophy: With Christ at the center of our school culture, our goal is to educate the whole child and with attentive guidance, lead each child to reach his or her

potential. Arts curriculum: Art and music – and band for grades 5-8. A string program is available after school for an extra charge. Special needs: We offer an individualized learning center for students needing extra help or more of a challenge in reading and math. We have no resources to support autistic students. Sports: B/G basketball and track; girls’ volleyball; and grade 5 regional Catholic football teams. Testing: MEAP grades 7-8; and IOWA grades 2-8; our school scores are above average. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? Our school has great supportive families that will make new families feel like they are immediately part of our community. Our teachers are dedicated and make it their priority to know every child well.

Lumen Christi Catholic High School

T. Gennara

and the parish schools of Jackson, Hillsdale and Lenawee counties

‘I wanted to help out because of how Kairos helped me’

Robert Warfield – Jackson Lumen Christi

or Lumen Christi High School senior Robert Warfield, 18, the past year has been a series of highs and lows. His Kairos experiences, though, have helped him navigate the emotions.

“I always had a lot of questions about my faith,” Robert says. “I’ve attended Catholic schools since preschool, and sometimes it

felt like religion was being shoved down my throat. Kairos gave me faith – not necessarily answers, but something to grow on.”

Robert, who attended the optional retreat as a junior, says Kairos just “felt like the right thing to do.” Immediately following the spring Kairos, Robert joined classmates and Lumen Christi High School Chaplain Father Geoff Rose on a mission trip to Jamaica. The students helped build the foundation for a church,

painted and fixed up schools in the area and played soccer with the local children. “There were sensational moments during Kairos and the Jamaica trip,” he says. “It was a warm feeling that kept pushing me through.” As it turned out, Robert would rely on those feelings to get him through the next few months. Robert’s parents separated that summer. “It was a real rough time for me,” he says. “I really think that Kairos helped me through that tough time, and it’s still helping.” Summer is a time when most high-school kids are working or making trips to the lake. Robert says he spent much of the summer worrying about his family and commuting between Detroit and Jackson for soccer workouts. “I was captain of the soccer team, so it was important that I kept it together,” Robert says. “I had moments when I was just overcome with fear, and I didn’t really know what was happening to me.” Thanks to Kairos, though, Robert prayed his way through his “moments.” “I didn’t lose sight of my faith, but it was a seriously rough patch. I just started praying ‘The Lord is my shepherd;’ it was the first thing that popped into my head.” Robert learned that his prayers, though not answered directly or in an obvious way, could get him through his fear and assure him that, no matter what, God was with him. That’s why the next year, he applied to be a leader for Lumen Christi’s Kairos retreat. “I wanted to be a leader

FAITH Magazine / May 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com

and help out because of how much Kairos helped me.” After a successful soccer season, Robert found out that he was chosen to be a Kairos leader. “Leading the retreat was just as helpful for me because there was a lot more going on,” he says. “It was like whole new experience. The first time it happened to me. The second time, it was helping others – helping it happen to others.” After his second Kairos, Robert started talking to Father Rose about his family

difficulties. “I finally told Father Geoff and he gave me a St. Michael prayer and pendant. I say the prayer to St. Michael every night,” Robert says. “I also shared my experiences with my Kairos group. They were able to help me, by praying with me.” Robert says he’s grateful to his family and Kairos experience for working through the emotional times with him. “Kairos has been a stabilizing factor in my life,” he says. “I will not let this fear own me.”

JACKSON 5 6 6

Jackson 4

Michigan Center

Lumen Christi Catholic High School, Jackson Principal: Patrick Kalahar pkalahar@hotmail.com 517.787.0630 Student population: 530 Grades: 9-12 Classrooms per grade: N/A 1 Student/teacher ratio: 15: Tuition: $2,772 to $6,237

Educational philosophy: We are preparing our students for life and teaching them life skills. Our belief is that in order to be successful in life, every student must have a solid foundation in religion, education and discipline. Regardless of their future plans, they will need skills in those areas to take with them when they graduate. Arts curriculum: We offer theater, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, band, guitar and vocal. Special needs: Yes Sports: B/G soccer; B/G cross country; B/G track & field; B/G golf; B/G swimming; B/G tennis; B/G basketball, football, volleyball, cheerleading, hockey, gymnastics, wrestling, softball and baseball. Testing: MME, PSAT, ACT, ASVAB and the SAT; we regularly score significantly above the state average on all standardized tests. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? We are a Catholic school that welcomes members of all faiths. We are the pre-eminent high school in Jackson County and have been serving in that role for 40 years.

LENAWEE

HILLSDALE 7

Hudson

Lumen Christi Catholic High School and the parish schools of Jackson, Hillsdale and Lenawee Counties — 1. Queen of the Miraculous Medal, Jackson | 2. St. John the Evangelist, Jackson | 3. St. Mary Star of the Sea/St. Stanislaus Kostka, Jackson | 4. Our Lady of Fatima, Michigan Center | 5. Jackson Catholic Middle School, Jackson | 6. Lumen Christi High School, Jackson | 7. Sacred Heart School, Hudson (Not part of JACSC)

Queen of the Miraculous Medal, Jackson Principal: Ruth Benner stmaryschool@tds.net 517.782.2664 Student population: 307 Grades: K-6 Classrooms per grade: 2 Student/teacher ratio: 22:1 classroom; 16:1 including specials Tuition: Range is $2,772 to $6,237

Educational philosophy: Our school is dedicated to the purpose of challenging children to reach their potential spiritually, morally, academically, emotionally, and physically. In this endeavor, we assist parents in their primary role as educators of their children. Arts curriculum: We offer art, music for K-6, choir for grades 4-6 and band for grade 6. Special needs: In conjunction with the intermediate and local public school districts. Sports: The students par-

ticipate in sports through the Jackson Recreation League. Testing: Iowa Test of Basic Skills; we score in the 77th79th percentile nationally. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? We have an active PTO program and also a Parent Involvement Program, which has parent volunteers taking on various roles in and for the school, such as lunchroom, morning playground supervisors, art assistants, collators, field day volunteers and more.

Our Lady of Fatima, Michigan Center Principal: Colleen McNeal olf_principal@tds.net 517.764.2563 Student population: 103 Grades: PreK 3-4, and K-6 Student/teacher ratio: 20:1 Tuition: $2,475 to $5,148 Educational philosophy: Christ is the center of our school. Arts curriculum: We offer PreK - grade 6 Spanish; elementary art, music and PE curriculum using state guidelines; and band grades 4-6. Special needs: ISD consultant and testing services. Sports: Basketball and football. We participate in the Rec leagues. Testing: Iowa Test of Basic Skills; all grades are in the 60th or 70th percentile. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? Our school is a small community family with hard workers and dedicated teachers. Our Lady of Fatima is scheduled to close next year unless certain benchmarks are met. By June 1, there must be 85 students registered with fees paid and tuition commitments entered into; and parents must have raised $150,000 through fundraising.

St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Jackson Principal: Julia Hurlburt stmaryschool@tds.net 517.784.8811 Student population: 142 in K-6, 36 in Pre-K, 10 in developmental K Grades: Pre-K through 6 Classrooms per grade: 1 Student/teacher ratio: 17:1 Tuition: No response Educational philosophy: We at St. Mary Star of the Sea School believe the spiritual, intellectual, emotional, physical, artistic and social growth of our students is a shared responsibility. Parents, teachers and staff work together to insure the education first begun and nurtured in the home continues in a Christian atmosphere characterized by love, respect, honesty and understanding. Arts curriculum: We offer art classes K-6, band in grade 6 with recorders and reading music in grades 4 and 5. We have vocal music K-6, with three music programs every year. We have a youth choir for students in grades 3-8 and hand chimes for children in most grades. Special needs: School psychologist, speech therapist, occupational therapist, physical therapist, school social worker, learning disabilities TC and tutoring for dyslexia through the reading/writing connection. We have mentors through the Catholic Charities RSVP program. We have no special program for autism, but have mainstreamed some students with mild forms of the condition. Sports: Our students participate in sports through the Jackson Recreation Department. They offer soccer, basketball, football and baseball. Our K-3 boys have a new Catholic League for football and basketball. Our 4-6 boys and girls have a school team for basketball (through the recreation department.) Last year, our 6th grade boys won the Catholic Schools Tournament in basketball and the girls took second place. Testing: Grades 3-6 take the Iowa Test of Basic Skills and the Cognitive Abilities Test. Our students do quite well. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? We are conveniently located in downtown Jackson and offer latchkey services from 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Our location enables us to offer swimming classes at the YMCA for all students in grades 4-6. We offer computer classes from kindergarten on up and start teaching Power Point in second grade and standard typing in grade 4.

Jackson Catholic Middle School, Jackson Principal: Tony Shaughnessy jacksoncatholicms@gmail.com 517.784.3385 Student population: 223 Grades: 7-8 Classroom per grade: N/A Student/teacher ratio: No response Tuition: No response Educational philosophy: We believe in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church and that all students can learn. Middle school students are in a transitional period. They possess unique education, social, physical and emotional needs. We recognize the home/family is the first teacher and we are an extension of that family, as well as the Catholic Church and the community. Arts curriculum: We offer enrichment classes in foreign language, communication, computers and technology, as well as performing arts. All students take visual art. All 7th-graders take general music. We also offer 7th grade Liturgical Music; 8th grade choir that follows MSVMA curriculum; and have concert band for 7th and 8th grades. Special needs: No response. Sports: Football; and G/B basketball, cross country, volleyball, wrestling, track, tennis and cheerleading. We participate in the Mid-Michigan Middle School Athletic League of the MHSAA. Testing: MEAP and Iowa; we have consistently scored at the top of all the middle schools in Jackson County. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? JCMS students participate in many volunteer/service projects throughout the school year that carries out into the community, as well as helping our school and families right at home. We have a beautiful chapel in our building that gives our students and staff the opportunity to attend Mass more than just once a week all school Mass.

Di e es oc

FAITH Magazine / May 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com

of g in ns La at C ho lic h Sc oo ls

St. John, Jackson Principal: Kathy Tarnacki ktsthohns@yahoo.com 517.784.1714 Student population: 184 Grades: K-6 Classrooms per grade: No response Student/teacher ratio: 20:1 Tuition: No response Educational philosophy: Our main focus is to provide a Christ-centered learning environment for our students … as a school family, assist in the spiritual academic, emotional and social growth of our students. At the same time, we do our best to challenge each student to reach his/her academic potential. Arts curriculum: We offer music and art. Special needs: With the support of our public school system, we do our best to meet the needs of students with learning disabilities; what we have to offer may or may not be sufficient to aid the child adequately. Sports: Students participate in sports through the local Parks and Recreation Department. Special teams are formed through the school for flag football and basketball. Testing: Grades 1-6 utilize the Iowa Test of Basic Skills What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? Its heritage is one of strong commitment to faith development and academic excellence. Parental involvement and support are highly valued and encouraged.

Sacred Heart, Hudson Principal: Angela Johnston sacredhearthudson.com or johnstona@comcast.net 517.448.6405 Student population: 116 Grades: PreK-7 Classrooms per grade: 1 Student/teacher ratio: 20:1 Tuition: K-6: $2,116 (1); $3,748 (2); $4,973 (3); $1,225 for each additional child; 7th grade only: $2,699 Educational philosophy: Sacred Heart School is a Catholic school that believes the Catholic-Christian faith is the foundation of our value system. Our faculty promotes independent thinking and community involvement, and provides active learning in the education process. We offer child-centered experiences with Christian adult guidance and support. We support and work together with our parents who are the first educators in the life of faith. Different methods of instruction, in school, after school, and outside of school, are utilized to meet each family’s needs. Arts curriculum: No response Special needs: We educate all children. Sports: None Testing: Iowa and DIBEL; we continue to show growth as our students continue from one grade to the next. Almost all of our students scored above average in all curriculum areas. What else would you like prospective students’ parents to know about your school? Sacred Heart School is a school where both faith and knowledge are taught together throughout the entire day. We are a very Christcentered school that is evident through our incredible faith family that is being built and strengthened. Our students learn to be God’s hands and feet everywhere, everyday in everything … we are servants of the Lord.

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