Leading with Faith

Our Renewal Pillar of Forming Disciples calls us to ensure that Catholic education is available to all who desire it, now and for the future. Our plan is designed to achieve that vision. The initiatives recommended by our principals, pastors, and other stakeholders have been divided into nine strategic areas of focus:

Over the next three weeks, our principals, pastors, and school chaplains will identify measures of success for each area. We will also outline short-term action steps and establish committees to take immediate action toward our goals.

We've heard from many principals and pastors that we need to create clarity and alignment while streamlining administrative responsibilities. This is our planning team’s primary focus for July. We will also gather experts in marketing, public relations, and communications to develop a Communications Plan that complements the Strategic Plan. Strengthening internal communication channels and promoting our community positively is a top priority this summer.

Regarding the open Superintendent position, we have decided to wait to initiate a search until the Strategic Plan is near completion. This approach ensures we can clearly articulate the position's expectations to potential candidates. We will begin the search once the new leadership model is defined.

July will be a busy month for our process. We look forward to connecting with you to gather your input, perspectives, and ideas.

Amy Pearl

Work Ignited

Charting a Path Forward for Catholic Education

This summer, we are excited to announce several professional development opportunities for our principals, pastors, school chaplains, and teachers. The focus will be on developing the Catholic Education Initiative Strategic Plan, using the MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) framework to enhance instruction, and aligning curricular maps and resources to the newly adopted NGSS science standards for full implementation this year.

SMART Goal Summaries

Improving Student Proficiency:
By June 2025, each grade-level team will use test data to identify three key areas for improvement, aiming to increase student proficiency by 3-5%. Regular data team meetings and professional development will support this, with progress monitored three times a year.

Updating Science Curriculum:
By June 2025, we will complete and review the PK-8 science curriculum, selecting new textbooks and resources. A curriculum committee and professional development will support this, with progress tracked quarterly.

Summer Professional Development Sessions

MTSS: Data-Informed Instruction

Event Details:

• What: Summer Session: Exploring MTSS and Data-Informed Instruction

• When: July 29, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

• Where: Catholic Center, 795 Main Street

• Who: Elementary Principals and STAR Champions

Description:
Join Maria LaRotonda from Erie 1 BOCES for a session on leveraging STAR formative assessments to create a data-driven approach to instruction. Educators will learn to identify students' needs and tailor their teaching strategies accordingly.

Additional Information:

• Dress Code: Business Casual

• Lunch: Provided

Please register by July 15 using the link below. Each participant will receive 4.5 CTLE credits.

Registration Link

Exploring the Shifts in Pedagogy and Content of Science

Event Details:

• What: Summer Session: Exploring the Shifts in Pedagogy and Content of Science

• When: August 23, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

• Where: Catholic Center, 795 Main Street

• Who: All Catholic High School and Elementary Principals and PK-12 Science Teachers

Description:
Join Renee Sossong-Brady from Erie 1 BOCES for an in-depth exploration of the NYSSLS dimensions and the shifts in science pedagogy and content. We will review current science maps and resources for alignment. Please bring a computer to the session.

Additional Information:

• Dress Code: Business Casual

• Lunch: Provided

Please register by August 9 using the link below. Each participant will receive 4.5 CTLE credits.

Link to Register for 8/23/24 Science PD

Professional Development Plans

Planning is essential for achieving school improvement goals. If you have not yet emailed your professional development plans, please send them to me at jgajewski@buffalodiocese.org by July 12. If you need assistance, I am available to meet in person or online.

Recommended Template:
2024-2025 Catholic-school-professional-development-plan-template Buffalo diocese - 3.1.2024

7/31/24 2024-25 Government Programs Checklist: Click here for End of Year List

8/1/24 NYSED MST/STEM Grant Submission Deadline

8/1/24 NYSED Art & Music Teacher Salary (AMTS) Grant Submission Deadline

TBD NYSED Elementary School AIS Claims Due

Our Diocesan Grade Advancement date is July 17th this year. Please make sure all records are up to date as this will happen automatically through eSchool Data.

A few eSchool reminders:

1. Transfers all use the same code of 170: Transferred to another school outside this district. The Diocese is system not a district - each of our schools are their own “district” for this purpose.

2. New students must have their home district listed in their registration information when being entered online.

3. PK students should all be marked to be excluded from state reporting and excluded from state attendance.

4. Students who have transferred from a different Diocesan school should transfer in STAR automatically, but please let me know if you do not see the students after we flip to the new year July 17th. Once the students are added in eSchool and assigned a teacher they will show in the nightly STAR sync.

Our calendar for the 2024-2025 year is ready, but is subject to change as the year progresses.