Changes at Saint Joseph Catholic Schools

OGDEN — After months of preparation that included a joint review by the Institute of School and Parish Development and the National Catholic Educational Association, Saint Joseph Catholic Schools have begun changes intended to sustain them into the future.

"This is going to strengthen the schools," said Holy Cross Sister Catherine Kamphaus, superintendent of Utah Catholic Schools.

The study was presented to Bishop John C. Wester and Sr. Catherine on Aug. 10. Among the study’s recommendations was to have the St. Joseph elementary, middle and high schools function as a pre-K – 12 system. In effect, this would mean that there would be one school board and shared services such as maintenance and transportation.

"They already do a lot of this," Sr. Catherine said, using the example of the current food service. "It’s more efficient."

Dale Ostlie, past president of the St. Joseph Catholic High School board, is in charge of implementing the study’s recommendations.

The study also recommended that the schools implement the strategic plan that was created several years ago, and expand efforts to increase enrollment and fundraising.

The study found that the schools were to be commended for their strong Catholic identity, strong academic program, students who are happy with the school, committed parents and alumni and well-qualified teachers who do an excellent job.

The study recommends that the school form a board of limited jurisdiction.

"We don’t have one in our diocese, but across the United States it’s becoming much more common, especially for diocesan high schools," Sr. Catherine said.

On Dec. 5, a representative from the National Catholic Educational Association is scheduled to meet with the St. Joseph school administration and board members on the structure of the new board, anticipating that it will be in place by the end of May, Sr. Catherine said.

In January a search is expected to start for a president of the Saint Joseph Catholic School system.

Part of the transition has been to hire a new high school principal (see sidebar.) Norm Allred, who had been principal, is the new vice principal of mission and Catholic identity. In addition to overseeing the high school religion program, he also will strengthen relationships with parishes in the area, Sr. Catherine said. "Norm is perfect for that. He is very articulate with the mission and the vision of the school. His heart is there."

Nancy Essary will remain as principal of Saint Joseph Catholic Elementary School, and Terry Lane will remain as the school’s vice principal. Alexis Salvo is the dean of students and high school athletic director.

Other changes are planned. Administrators are reviewing applications for the schools’ advancement director and plan to hire someone for the position by the end of the year. A representative from the Institute of School and Parish Development is scheduled to conduct advancement workshops for all diocesan principals and advancement personnel on Nov. 14; his topics will be enrollment management and the annual fund appeal.