Winter 2025President's Message

Bright Lights and Hope of Catholic EducationDear Colleagues in Catholic Education,As we prepare to celebrate Catholic Schools Week, I am filled with immense gratitude and excitement for the extraordinary gift of Catholic education. Over the past few months, I’ve had the privilege of traveling across the country as part of the “Bright Lights of Catholic Education Tour.” This has allowed me to witness firsthand the incredible impact of Catholic education, and I am thrilled to share that there is so much to celebrate in our community of Catholic schools.Each visit has been a powerful reminder of the transformative work of Catholic education. I’ve met students who are not only excelling academically but also embodying Christ’s call to service and compassion. I’ve spoken with educators who dedicate themselves tirelessly to forming hearts and minds, often going above and beyond to ensure every student feels valued and supported. And I’ve seen the creativity and resilience of school leaders who innovate to meet the challenges of today while remaining steadfast in their commitment to the Gospel message.In every classroom, assembly, conversation and celebration of the Mass, I’ve seen the light of hope. This theme resonates deeply as we journey toward the Jubilee of Hope in 2025, inspired by Pope Francis’ invitation to be “Pilgrims of Hope.” Our Catholic schools are places where hope is cultivated, nurtured and shared with the wider community. Whether through academic excellence, spiritual formation or outreach to those in need, our schools serve as living witnesses to the hope that Christ offers the world.Catholic schools are not just places of learning; they are communities of faith, joy and service. They are reminders of what is possible when we center our lives on Christ and work together for the common good. This Catholic Schools Week, I encourage all of us to celebrate not only the accomplishments of our schools but also the hope they bring to the world.Let us embrace the spirit of the Jubilee and continue to support our Catholic schools as they shine brightly in their mission to educate, inspire and transform. Together, we can ensure that Catholic education remains a light in the darkness, a source of hope for generations to come.
With gratitude for all you do,Dr. Steven F. Cheeseman
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