Illuminating Our Path: Shaping the Future of Catholic Education in the Diocese of Colorado Springs

By Ali Paglia

PHOTO: Bishop James Golka visited with students at Holy Apostles Preschool on Feb. 25 in honor of Catholic Schools Week. The visit was originally scheduled for Jan. 30 but had to be rescheduled due to a snowstorm. (Photo courtesy of Kristi McGarry.)

In 2022, the Diocese of Colorado Springs partnered with the Meitler Group to create a strategic growth plan for Catholic schools in our community. Through a comprehensive data study, we identified key areas for growth, shaping the strategic plan titled “Illuminating Our Path.” This plan is the result of collaboration among diocesan, parish, and school leadership, including Bishop James Golka, the Office of Catholic Schools, pastors, faculty, staff, and community representatives. Structured around the four pillars of The National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools — Catholic mission and identity, governance and leadership, academic excellence, and operational vitality — the plan ensures the continued vitality and growth of our schools.

The vision of the plan is rooted in several key components: mission and ministry, faith formation, community, excellence, and vitality. Together, these elements ensure that Catholic education remains a powerful force for both academic achievement and spiritual growth. By integrating intellectual development with spiritual formation, the plan fosters an environment where students not only excel academically but also grow in faith and leadership. Faith formation, centered on guiding students to develop a relationship with Jesus Christ and live out the Gospel, forms the heart of the plan. A strong sense of community is prioritized, cultivating a collaborative and inclusive environment where students, faculty, staff, and families feel supported. The plan also emphasizes academic excellence, character development, and service, while focusing on long-term vitality through operational efficiency and sustainable resources.

To implement the updates and changes outlined in the Illuminating Our Path strategic plan, we have formed a strategic partnership with Avanti Advisors, a trusted consulting firm with expertise in Catholic education. Their guidance has been instrumental in helping us navigate the complexities of restructuring the governance of our schools. In collaboration with Avanti, we have redefined the governance structure for four elementary schools in the diocese: Corpus Christi Catholic Academy, St. Gabriel Classical Academy, St. Paul Catholic School, and St. Peter Catholic School in Monument. These schools will now operate under the direct leadership of Bishop Golka, Sheila Whalen, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, and a newly established Board of Directors. The new governance model is designed to address the unique challenges faced by these four Colorado Springs-area Catholic schools.

Ave Maria Catholic School in Parker, Pax Christi Preschool in Lone Tree, and Holy Apostles Preschool in Colorado Springs will not be a part of this system initially and will continue to function as individual parish schools. Ave Maria Catholic School, due to its geography and the distinct nature of the school and parish, does not compete with other diocesan Catholic schools and currently does not face the same business challenges that the Colorado Springs-area schools experience.

This new governance structure reflects a shift toward more centralized, collaborative oversight, ensuring that the diocese’s educational mission is unified and aligned with the broader goals of the strategic plan. The board of directors will play a central role in guiding the direction of these schools, providing essential oversight and strategic direction in key areas such as mission, finance, facilities, advancement, and more. The pastors from each of these schools, who are deeply invested in the spiritual and educational life of their communities, will be integral members of the board, ensuring that the Catholic identity and mission of the schools remain at the forefront of all decision-making processes.

This restructuring marks a crucial step in creating a more cohesive and efficient leadership structure for our schools. By enhancing the connection between the schools and the diocese and reinforcing our dedication to the Catholic mission, we are setting the stage for long-term growth and success. With the collaborative leadership of the bishop, superintendent, and board of directors, we are confident that this new governance model will drive the continued advancement of our schools, benefiting our students, families, and communities for years to come.

(Ali Paglia is a marketing and communication specialist for the Office of Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Colorado Springs.)