Discover the Difference: Diocesan Catholic School Board is Back in Session

October 7, 2024

This summer, the Diocese of Des Moines took a significant step toward strengthening the mission and future of its 16 schools by reactivating the Diocesan Catholic Schools Board. Diocesan leadership reinstated the board after a five-year hiatus to guide its schools in becoming centers of dynamic faith formation, academic excellence and community as they develop the next generation of disciples.

 

A Strategic Pause and a Fresh Start

Diocesan leadership disbanded the board to reevaluate its purpose and responsibilities during the initial regionalization efforts among the Des Moines Metro Catholic Schools. Regionalization was a strategic move to streamline the schools' administrative functions and leverage economies of scale—all to benefit faculty, staff, students and families. The reactivation of the board marked a new chapter in this journey, as the diocese sought to ensure all of the Diocese of Des Moines Catholic schools remain vibrant centers of learning and faith. The board held its first official meeting on September 24 at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Atlantic. Representation included diocesan staff, clergy, educators and Bishop Joensen, who brought diverse expertise and perspectives to ensure that decisions made on behalf of the schools reflect the broader Catholic community.

 

Mission, Accessibility and Growth are Top Priorities

The board explored developing a long-term vision for Catholic education rooted in each school's individual goals. After considering each school's challenges and strengths, top priorities emerged: Catholic education's mission education, promoting enrollment growth, and enhancing the schools' marketing efforts. The board emphasized the importance of enrollment accessibility through programs like the Catholic Tuition Organization (CTO) and Education Savings Accounts (ESAs). These initiatives guarantee that a high-quality Catholic education remains within reach for all families, regardless of income. The meeting also involved a thoughtful review of a demographic study conducted by the Tippie School of Business which provided valuable insights into population trends impacting the diocese and its schools. The board plans to delve deeper into the study's findings in the months ahead to inform strategic planning and decision-making.

 

What's Next?

The meeting concluded with a brainstorming session on future tasks and responsibilities. Board members posed insightful questions that will shape the direction of their work, ensuring they remain focused on school vitality. Throughout the school year, board members will develop action plans to address the priority focus areas identified during the initial meeting. Action plans will include strategies informed by school input, needs, demographic data and enrollment trends. Ultimately, school leadership and stakeholders across the diocese will enact the plans.

 

The Diocese of Des Moines Catholic Schools includes 16 schools in 23 counties in central and southwest Iowa. Catholic schools in the Des Moines Diocese build Christ-centered, collaborative, inclusive partnerships with parents, students, and parishes to provide students with innovative academic excellence and inspirational faith formation.