Catholic school principals are my heroes

Catholic School Principals are among my Pandemic Heroes!
- by Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger

As the pandemic has unfolded I have witnessed a great many people rise to the challenges of the occasion and minister in extraordinary ways. Our priests immediately come to mind as they have been prophetic in service to our people. But in recent weeks I’ve been deeply moved by the example of our Catholic school principals.

The ministry of a Catholic school principal is challenging on the best of days. It is no small task to oversee the critical work of teachers and support staff, remain vigilant in maintaining the Catholic identity of the school community, or follow the finances and administrative components of the school. But principals also are on the cutting edge of working with teachers in observing students and their general wellbeing. In recent weeks a great many of our principals have found themselves additionally responding [and fast] to reports of positive Covid tests among the school community, adding to their obligations by substituting unexpectedly for teachers, dealing with children sometimes in emotional meltdown due to home situations wounded by unemployment or isolation, and leading in the support of their teaching staff who are experiencing pressures never before envisioned or experienced. Our school communities are leaning on their principals as never before and while calling no attention to themselves I cannot help but observe how they are emerging as heroes in the midst of a pandemic.

I know that there are sources of support to our principals and I am grateful to know that many school parents show them great appreciation for their efforts, sacrifices, and generosity. Regrettably, I know that they sometimes are the person vented upon by parents or others who are perhaps overwhelmed by the effects of the pandemic or other pressures of the day. I ask all who are reading this to remember that a kind word of encouragement oftentimes makes all the difference. Take a moment to see these extraordinary women and men as I see them. I think you will recognize them as heroes as well.

+Edward J. Weisenburger
 

Our Catholic Schools Need You!

Sheri Dahl
Superintendent
Diocese of Tucson Catholic Schools

Our 23 schools in the Diocese of Tucson strive to be available, accessible, and affordable for students who desire a Catholic education.  And the COVID-19 pandemic has not stifled our determination to continue that mission; however, the challenges in providing for families’ and students’ needs has taken its toll.  How can you help?  By answering the call in the following ways:

PRAY: 

• For our school leaders, that they maintain a healthy mental, physical, and spiritual stamina needed to lead their school community through this most challenging year.
• For our school teachers, who work tirelessly to try and make online learning engaging and enriching for all learners while some are teaching children in person at the same time.
• For our school families, that they are able to balance all the hybrid and online learning schedules and responsibilities with their family time and commitments.
• SUPPORT OUR STUDENTS

Donate to the CTSO - Receive a tax credit

• Because of so many family hardships, Catholic schools are in need of scholarship donations!  You can either donate directly to a school or to Catholic Tuition Support Organization (CTSO):  https://www.ctso-tucson.org

IF YOU ARE A RETIRED OR CURRENT TEACHER:

• We need teachers!  Please consider applying for a teaching position or substitute position:  https://www.diocesetucson.org/employment-opportunities  

ACKNOWLEDGE THE SUPERHEROS IN YOUR COMMUNITY:

• Be the hands or voice of Christ and pen a note or call a Catholic school to express gratitude for their ministry and service to our community.  Thank you!

May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way!

Sincerely in Christ,
Sheri Dahl
Superintendent
Diocese of Tucson Catholic Schools
520-838-2548