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School Study - Community Updates

Proud Past
Beginning with the arrival of French settlers, missionaries taught the children of pioneers. Because the need was so great, by 1836 the Catholic community had established a log cabin school on the grounds of the present day Cathedral. Over the past 170 years, schools took root throughout the diocese and built upon the faith foundations of families, religious communities and parishes. 

Across the generations, Catholic schools remained a constant in the life of the Church – in Kansas City, in St. Joseph and in rural communities. As heirs of this tradition, communities across northwest Missouri have benefited from a Church that willingly shared its gifts and resources for future generations.

Promising Future
In March 2008, the diocese launched a comprehensive study and strategic planning effort to strengthen and sustain the long-term viability of Catholic schools. By engaging a broad spectrum of constituent groups in strategic thinking, the process will forecast a long-term direction for this vital ministry.

Author and management consultant Peter Drucker encouraged leaders to “focus on opportunities, not problems.” Guided by Meitler Consultants, the planning process was undertaken not in crisis mode but with an eye to developing Catholic education throughout the diocese.

Focus on Opportunities
While issues such as affordability and Catholic identity will be key elements, the final report will be tailored to meet the needs of the people of the diocese.

"There is no pre-conceived plan, nor do we come in with all the answers," observed Sister of St. Joseph Mary Anne Heenan, project manager with Meitler Consultants.

"We can't focus just on finances. We can't focus just on academic excellence or on Catholic identity. We must look at it all. The goal is not simply the preservation of our schools, but the service to the common good of our church and of our society."

Blueprint for Action
The formation of two advisory groups will assist the process is an important component of the planning process.

Planning Committee <click here to view members
Steering Committee <click here to view members

The committees will meet regularly to critique proposed recommendations, to discuss ideas that emerge, and to recommend a plan to Bishop Finn.  In addition to meeting regularly with the Catholic Schools Office, Meitler Consultants also will meet with pastors, principals, directors of early childhood programs, the Diocesan School Board and the Central City School Fund board of directors.

School Study Timeline

March 2008 - Consultant meets with diocesan representatives to develop plan of work and organize the study

April – May 2008 - Consultant and superintendent visit all schools

April 2008 - Kick-off meeting with pastors, principals and directors

Summer 2008 - Consultants research and gather demographic data for Situation Analysis that describes past and present trends, forces and conditions

August 2008 - First draft of Situation Analysis discussed with Planning and
Steering Committees

September 2008 - Meetings with Planning and Steering Committees to refine Situation Analysis 

October 2008 - Meetings with Planning and Steering Committees to preview initial recommendations

October 2008 - Consultants present Key Findings and Situation Analysis to pastors, principals, directors and parish leaders on October 30

December 2008 - Meetings with Planning and Steering Committees to continue developing and refining the plan

January 2009 - Meetings with pastors and the Planning and Steering Committees to continue developing and refining the plan

February 2009 - Consultants present draft of plan to pastors, principals, directors and parish leaders on February 17

February 2009 - Meetings with Planning and Steering Committees to continue developing and refining the plan

March 2009 - Meetings with Planning and Steering Committees to continue developing and refining the plan, consultation with deaneries, review of written feedback from February community meeting

April – May 2009 - Plan finalized and recommended to Bishop Finn for consideration

May - August 2009 – Bishop Finn appointed nine task forces to review recommendations, test proposals, and identify practical modifications and or ways to implement the plan, if approved

September 2009 -- Task forces make present recommendations to Bishop Finn

čNovember  2009 - into New Year -- Bishop convenes a committee of pastors, community representatives and Chancery staff to research and advise him on elements of the plan