October 7, 2004

Catholic schools have been an important part of the history and fabric of life of Catholic families in the Archdiocese of Chicago for generations. They have helped shape the faith life and minds of countless young people who have become leaders in our communities.

As we continue to plan proactively for the future of our schools, we are constantly evaluating situations where we know that circumstances have changed in the many decades since a number of our schools were established. Our goal is to make sure we are meeting the current demand for Catholic education while building a stronger future for those families who choose Catholic schools. As we have seen in recent years, sometimes it involves opening a new school or creating a new model of education that best suits the needs of the families and communities we serve. Other times schools close for a variety of reasons, like shifting populations or diminishing financial resources.

Our goals for the process include determining how schools might best be configured and governed in the future to meet the needs of the areas they serve. Other goals include identifying additional ways to make Catholic school education available to families who cannot afford tuition, as well as what to do about aging school facilities in the inner city and other areas of Cook County.

Let me assure you that the planning process will be mission focused, data driven and collaborative. Parents, local school board members, alumni and others in schools where change may occur will have an opportunity to share their thinking as we move forward together.

As we look to the future, we’re confident that our ongoing planning initiatives will lead us to realistic solutions to ensure the availability and viability of Catholic schools across the Archdiocese of Chicago.