Catholic Schools Week highlights the unique qualities that define Catholic schools

As we embark on the celebration of Catholic Schools Week 2024, this is a time for reflection on the invaluable impact of Catholic education on the lives of our children. This week is not merely a time for festivity but an opportunity to recognize the special role that Catholic schools play in shaping the minds, hearts, and spirits of our young learners. This year’s theme, “United in Faith and Community,” illustrates the mission of our schools and our common faith in creating a community of learners who support and uplift one another.

The Office of Schools for the Diocese of Metuchen is extremely proud of the work and accomplishments of our Catholic Schools. As part of our mission and service, we visit our schools routinely to observe firsthand the positive climate and culture, faith-based teachings, and academic opportunities that take place each and every day.

From Saints Philip and James in Warren County to St. Joseph School in Middlesex County, we have witnessed and appreciate the values-based education that our Catholic schools provide. It goes beyond academics and shape students into compassionate and ethical individuals. Our four high schools play a vital role in shaping well-rounded individuals who not only excel academically but also embody values that contribute positively to their communities and the world at large.

We celebrate our schools each day but Catholic Schools Week is the point in time for a poignant celebration that transcends the boundaries of education, instilling a sense of purpose and faith in the hearts of students, educators, and the entire community. It is a time when the profound impact of Catholic education becomes evident, as these schools not only impart knowledge but also cultivate values that resonate with the teachings of compassion, integrity, and service.

The week serves as a reminder that Catholic schools are not just institutions of learning, but nurturing grounds for the religious and academic development of individuals who are empowered to navigate the complexities of life with a strong moral compass. In a world often filled with challenges, Catholic Schools Week stands as a testament to the enduring commitment of our schools to shape not only the minds but also the souls of those entrusted in our care.

We are very proud and grateful for the work of our teachers, administrators, support staff, parents, and volunteers and their dedication to our schools and students. Superintendent Barbara Stevens stated after a recent visit to two diocesan schools, “From the moment I stepped through the doors, I was greeted with an atmosphere of enthusiasm, dedication, and a genuine commitment to fostering both academic excellence and spiritual growth. The passion and dedication of the staff, the engagement of the students, and the overall sense of community were truly commendable.”

Assistant superintendent of schools, Joseph Diskin, who spent 36 years in public education, is truly impressed with the academic excellence and positive learning environment in our schools.  He states, “I have observed teachers, working together, providing a student-centered environment from which flows mutual respect and a sense of personal responsibility and fulfillment.  The spirit of our student’s positivity, happiness, and kindness shines bright through the smiles and conversations I have had with them during my school visits.”

The Office of Schools’ new initiative, “Saint of the Month” program, provides our schools meaningful lessons that are designed to introduce students to the lives and teachings of various saints throughout the academic year. Director of Curriculum, Filippini Sister Mary Louise Shulas, shared, “This program aims to deepen student understanding of their faith, foster spiritual growth, and inspire them to emulate the virtues demonstrated by these exemplary figures in the Catholic tradition. My hope is that they use the saints and their virtues as role models to live virtuous and compassionate lives.”

We are grateful for the work of all of our schools and are looking forward to joining them during this week of celebration with Masses, open houses and other activities for students, families, parishioners and community members. Catholic Schools Week is a time-honored tradition that allows us to reflect on the unwavering commitment to academic excellence, spiritual growth and community service that defines our Catholic schools in the Diocese of Metuchen.

Barbara Stevens
Superintendent of Schools

Joseph Diskin
Assistant Superintendent of Schools

Sister Mary Louise Shulas
Director of Curriculum and Instruction