The Catholic Commission began a few years ago to gather information, study, and review the progress of our Catholic Schools.  At this time I would like to provide you with an update I have received from Ref. Msgr. Kevin M. Hanbury - Vicar for Education.

In recent weeks, the members of the Catholic Education Commission examining the future of Catholic elementary education in The Archdiocese of Newark have been meeeting in smaller subcommitees charged with such areas as Facilities, Finance and Governance, Curriculum, Marketing, Enrollment, Leadership, and most important, Catholic identity.

During this period, the members have been developing and evaluating a range of information, including ideas, and programs that are working in other diocese and educational programs, and the cahllenges of incorporating some of these ideas within the Archdiocesan program.  They are also looking to Best Practices nationwide in terms of educational models and finances.  In addition, these groups are analyzing the current data on areas like enrollment trends, academic test scores, finances and demand for a Catholic education in order help position the Catholic schools of the Archdiocese as a vital and vibrant program for educating children for the future.

The impact of current legislative issues, including both full school choice and Opportunity Scholarship Act, are also concerns that the subcommittees and overall Commission are examings. 

Archbishop Myers has met with the member of the Commission, and has expressed both his appreciation for the work to date, and his anticipation that the full strategic plan for the future of the Catholic elementary school will be comprehensive and ready for submission by it Feb. 2012 deadline.

We ask for your continued prayers and support as the Catholic Education Commission continues in the coming weeks to work to ensure the highest quality Catholic education program for the benefit of God's chidlren here in the Archdiocese.