CATHOLIC IDENTITY SELF ASSESSMENT PROCESS

Transcription

1 CATHOLIC IDENTITY SELF ASSESSMENT PROCESS OCTOBER 2010

2 Guiding Statement Catholic Schools are vital to the Church s mission of evangelization and catechesis. They exist in order to educate the whole person: mind, body, and soul. They present the totality of the Catholic faith. Whether Catholic schools are part of a parish structure or are regional, diocesan, or private, growth in the Catholic faith for the children and young people who attend them is essential to their identity and purpose. National Directory for Catechesis, USCCB, 2005, p OCTOBER 2010

3 Introduction to the Catholic Identity Assessment Process The Catholic Schools of Brooklyn and Queens are called to be gifted communities of faith. Message, community, and service are the building blocks of our Catholic Identity. Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio, in his Pastoral Letter entitled Do Not Be Afraid, writes fostering and strengthening the Catholic Identity of our Catholic schools is an absolute necessity for their long term health and success. The following process was developed after careful review of a pilot program that was tested in some schools during the academic year. Considerable consultation has taken place both within and outside of the Diocese of Brooklyn. The sub-committee for Catholic Identity s best thinking is now presented in this document. The document follows in printed form and may be reproduced either in part or in its entirety. Also, it is found in the Religion folder as well as the Superintendent s folder on DioNet. It is our hope that submission of all reports and other communications be done electronically, if at all possible. The staff of the Office of the Superintendent ~ Catholic School Support Services stands ready to support you and your school/academy community as your community strives to assess your Catholic Identity. Please note that Mr. Theodore Musco, Associate Superintendent for Strategic Planning, Catholic Identity, and Catechist Formation is the primary contact and support person for this Process. The Catholic Identity Assessment Process is to be undertaken by the local Catholic Identity Committee for your particular school/academy. The principal, as coordinator of this Process, leads the local committee as it examines the Catholic Identity standards and indicators and gathers the particular data that will help form the basis of the Reports. The hope is that the entire school/academy community will contribute to the findings, recognize areas that need improvement, and celebrate the areas of Catholic Identity that are strong and vibrant. An annual Celebration of Faith is a wonderful time to share the good news of our Catholic Identity with the rest of the community, both near and far. Ultimately, the process is meant to sustain and strengthen your school s/academy s Catholic Identity. By examining and assessing the building blocks of mission, community, and service, we will demonstrate that the Catholic Schools of Brooklyn and Queens are indeed gifted communities of faith. 3 OCTOBER 2010

4 The Mission and Vision of Catholic Education Mission Ultimately, the mission of all Catholic education is to lead those entrusted to its care to find salvation in Jesus Christ. Vision In Catholic Schools on the Threshold of the Third Millennium (#11), His Holiness Pope John Paul II wrote that Catholic schools are the privileged environment in which Christian education is carried out. Catholic schools are at once places of evangelization, of complete formation, of inculturation, of apprenticeship in a lively dialogue between young people of different religions and social backgrounds. The mission of the communion of Catholic schools in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn is to make concrete John Paul II s message, in the conviction that it will lead us to Christ, the Master Teacher. A Place of Evangelization People tend to know more about the Catholic Church once they have been part of a Catholic school community. The school s Catholic Identity must be strong enough to attract youth and adults alike to a greater understanding and appreciation of Christ and the Church. Whether a person is a lifelong Catholic, or someone who has not yet heard the call of Christ, he/she should be drawn to a more complete education and formation after experiencing the people involved in the Catholic school. By its very nature, the school community should be warm, inviting, and welcoming. The Catholic school community should be an evangelizing community, where people come to a better and deeper understanding of Christ and His Church. 4 OCTOBER 2010

5 A Place of Complete Formation Chief among the Catholic school s priorities is the desire for its teachers to model Jesus to Teach As Jesus Did, USCCB, No one aspect of any educational or formational program is ever enough: the Catholic school must strive to educate the entire person body, mind, and spirit. As mission-driven institutions, our Catholic schools recognize the importance of multi-cultural, multi-faceted, academically sound educational programs that meet the needs of the poor and the rich, the Catholic and the non-catholic, the wise and the not so wise. Our Catholic schools need to be imbued with a strong and truth-filled Catholic Identity. Quality Catholic Education should never be seen as limiting, but rather freeing the students to reach their full potential. Families must be seen as the primary place where formation in the faith takes root, especially when supported by the parish priest(s) and parish community of faith. The best of what we all have to offer must be at the service of our young people. Active worship and participation by the entire family in one s home parish is a priority. 5 OCTOBER 2010

6 A Place of Inculturation The mission of Catholic schools is rooted in the ultimate mission of Jesus: Go and make disciples of all the nations. Today Catholic schools are very rarely populated with families from one ethnic background or culture. Today s mission for Catholic schools could be considered more challenging because of the ever changing and diverse makeup of our communities and neighborhoods. Today, Christ s mission among us can be seen as more encompassing because of the variety of cultures and religions that have become part of the rich fabric of our Catholic schools. We are called to be welcoming members of the Body of Christ. We are called to be safe havens for all. A Place of Apprenticeship It is often said that children learn best by example. By its very nature, the Catholic school creates an environment that encourages young people to grow, not separated from others, but as part of a larger community, as part of the family of God. Most people can remember a time when someone demonstrated a Christ-like virtue to them. It might have been an older student tutoring a younger student, a teacher speaking words of encouragement, or a pastor giving a concrete reminder of how much God loves us. Whether it was accidental or intentional, these positive actions helped pass on the faith. The children benefited in many cases, but so did the rest of the school community. The spirit of the Catholic school became 6 OCTOBER 2010

7 more Christ-like. Happiness became joy, deeply rooted in the saving power of God. Individuals, passing on their faith to others, are not left to fend for themselves, but rather, they benefit from the experiences and good works of others in the Catholic school community. The Catholic school is a privileged place where truth and knowledge meet. Here we see the two natures of Jesus, divine and human. Here we work in unison to educate and form the child into a Christ-like person. Science and Reading, Language Arts and Music, Mathematics and History, and Religion are taught by highly trained, dedicated teachers who are part of the larger community, whose goal it is to make students aware of the individual plan God has for them. Not only do we promote and encourage academically sound individuals, but we rejoice with children who are spiritually, theologically, and liturgically enlivened. Every child, regardless of where he/she lives in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn, should be able to take advantage of a Catholic school education. The Catholic School is a true and proper ecclesial entity by reason of its educational activity, in which faith, culture, and life are brought into harmony, Catholic Schools on the Threshold of the Third Millennium (#11.) In a Catholic school, simply put, the image of the Icon of Jesus the Master Teacher becomes, for believers, the real person and the real Jesus, the Master Teacher. He, who has the ability to draw all people to Himself and form a harmonious community from all backgrounds and cultures, faiths and families, becomes alive in our hearts. The Catholic school is that place where formation and education meet, where we are formed and nurtured as disciples of a loving and caring God, and where we become bearers and proclaimers of the Word of God. We rejoice that we can be saved by His truth and share in the knowledge of His mission as supporters of Catholic schools in the twenty-first century and beyond. 7 OCTOBER 2010

8 Schedule of Implementation for the Long Form of The Catholic Identity Self Assessment Process for Schools/Academies Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn September General Meetings Pastors Boards Principals Office Staff October Form Local Catholic Identity Committee Pastors Provide In-service Boards Send out survey Principals First Local Catholic Identity Committee Meeting Local C I Committee November Gathering of data Local C I Committee December Gathering of data Local C I Committee January Gathering of data Local C I Committee February Begin to complete Long Form Local C I Committee March Complete Long Form Local C I Committee Begin to plan a local Celebration of Faith April Work on Catholic Identity Assessment Report Local C I Committee May 1 Submit completed Catholic Identity Local C I Committee Self Assessment Report to Mr. Musco June Sponsor local Celebration of Faith Local C I Committee 8 OCTOBER 2010

9 Catholic Identity Self Assessment Some Initial Questions When assessing a school s/academy s Catholic Identity, some questions to ask are: 1. Do you have a clearly written statement that defines the school s/academy s mission? 2. Are you achieving what you say you are in your mission statement?* 3. How do you know that you are achieving what you say you are in your mission statement?* 4. What steps is the school/academy taking to foster the school s Catholic Identity?* 5. What does each group (faculty, staff, students (alumni), parents, etc.) of the school s/academy s community do to keep the school s/academy s Catholic Identity alive? 6. What does each group do to enhance and further the school s/academy s Catholic Identity? *Questions adapted from The Holy See s Teaching on Catholic Schools, Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB, page OCTOBER 2010

10 Catholic Identity Self Assessment Local Catholic Identity Committee, Long Form, and Report Guidelines 1. The Pastor/Members, Directors and Principal should read and review all related documents. 2. In cooperation with the Pastor/Members, the principal should select and seek confirmation from six to nine people to form the local Catholic Identity Committee. They should be chosen from among the following groups and should be able to make a commitment to the committee for at least one year: a. Directors b. Parents c. Faculty members d. Advisory Board Members e. Parish Pastoral Council members f. Catechetical staff (paid and/or volunteer) g. Alumni h. Students 3. Once the local Catholic Identity Committee members have been selected, one member from among the group will be appointed (elected) to serve as Secretary to the Committee. The principal s role is to serve as coordinator of the Committee and the Pastor/Director Chairperson will serve as the one who accepts the final Report before it is submitted to the Superintendent and ultimately to the Bishop. 4. The Catholic Identity Committee members must attend an informational session that will detail the Catholic Identity Self Assessment Process. 5. The Catholic Identity Committee members must review all documents and decide on a plan to properly use the materials and tools provided. 6. Each Catholic Identity Committee member will be assigned to one of the six characteristics associated with Catholic Identity documents (see the Catholic Identity Self Assessment Long Form). 10 OCTOBER 2010

11 7. With the assistance of others both on and outside the Committee, the Catholic Identity Committee members will review the school/academy s Catholic Identity in light of the Characteristics, Standards, and Indicators provided on the Catholic Identity Self Assessment Long Form. Each member will keep his/her own notes to be shared with the rest of the Committee. 8. The rating code for each Indicator is: (3) Exceeds expectations (2) Meets expectations (1) Below expectations (0) Does not meet expectations Please remember to provide a ranking for each Indicator. DO NOT leave any Indicator ranking blank. To reach your final score, add each ranking number and divide by 74 (total number of Indicators to be ranked). 9. Information and comments will be discussed at various meetings by the entire committee and consensus should be reached before any final comments or ratings are recorded on the Long Form. The appointed/elected Secretary will keep the final version of the remarks made to be included on the Catholic Identity Self Assessment Long Form. He/she will be responsible for completing the final version of the Catholic Identity Self Assessment Long Form. 10. Following completion of the Catholic Identity Self Assessment Long Form, a report will be assembled and written following the format listed below: a. List committee members b. Mission Statement of the school/academy c. History of the school/academy detailing elements and aspects of Catholic Identity d. Summary of the strengths and weaknesses found in the Catholic Identity Self Assessment Long Form e. Three goals and concrete action plans to address the goals to be accomplished during a three-year period. There should be one goal from each of three Characteristics. Be certain to provide a timeline for achieving each goal and state how the goal will be evaluated. f. State how and when the school/academy will celebrate its Catholic Identity. Make plans to hold a local Celebration of Faith near the end of the school year (additional details will be provided). 11. The Catholic Identity Report should be prepared in such a way that it can be presented to at least the following groups: a. Pastor and/or Directors b. Appropriate Vicar 11 OCTOBER 2010

12 c. Superintendent of Schools d. Appropriate Associate Superintendent e. Parents f. Parishioners g. Alumni h. Others determined by the local administration 12 OCTOBER 2010

13 Name of school/academy Long Form of the Catholic Identity Self Assessment Process Offic eof the Superintendent ~ Catholic School Support Services Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn Catholic Identity Self Assessment Cover Sheet Address Telephone Date Submitted Committee Members Members/Pastor Principal 13 OCTOBER 2010

14 The Instrument for Catholic Identity Assessment Characteristic One: The Catholic School/Academy is inspired by a supernatural Vision. The Holy See s Teaching on Catholic Schools, Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB Standards Indicators Students/Alumni Faculty Parents Administrators Rating Indicate S or A before comment 1 The Pastor (The Members), School s discipline policy Directors, and Principal act ethically, reflects the Catholic Identity consistently and fairly in dealings of the school with parents, staff, students, and other community members. School policy and procedures deal with parent concerns Criteria of an Excellent in a way consistent with Catholic School, p.7 the school s Catholic Identity School procedures for dealing with faculty/staff concerns are seen as being consistent with the Catholic Identity of the school 2 Its Catholic Identity is a specific The administrative team attribute, a distinctive characteristic promotes school s Catholic that influences every educational Identity in a cohesive way activity, and all policies, structures, procedures and relationships. Formal and informal interaction with families takes place Criteria of an Excellent on a regular basis Catholic School, p.1 3 (School programs) include a wide Lesson plans reflect the school/ variety of instructional strategies academy s Catholic Identity which are relevant to students in concrete ways learning styles, language needs, 14 OCTOBER 2010

15 Characteristic One: The Catholic School/Academy is inspired by a supernatural Vision. The Holy See s Teaching on Catholic Schools, Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB and abilities including remediation and enrichment Academic Excellence, A Local staff professional development helps faculty and staff to develop a strong sense of Catholic Identity AIS Program Enrichment Programs Aquinas Program The school program is varied enough to meet the needs of all students and, in all cases, addresses the Catholic Identity of the school/academy 4 (The Principal) consciously endeavors School wide celebrations such to build a multicultural school as Our Lady of Guadeloupe, community by working toward a St. Joseph, St. Patrick, etc. climate of cultural harmony. Staffing patterns demonstrate Excellent Leadership, p.2 a concern for a multi-cultural school/academy community 5 The principal encourages faculty, School projects in response to staff, and students to practice the specific world events principles of social justice by working toward a just and peaceful world Support of the Propagation of the Faith Excellent Leadership, p.2 6 The principal, while remaining Non-Catholic parents invited to respectful of the beliefs of participate in school prayer non-catholic students, reinforces experiences and models their responsibility to 15 OCTOBER 2010

16 Characteristic One: The Catholic School/Academy is inspired by a supernatural Vision. The Holy See s Teaching on Catholic Schools, Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB the school s religious mission Excellent Leadership, p.2 The school/academy is faithful to the tenents of the Catholic Faith Class Masses and Seasonal Devotions are open to all 16 OCTOBER 2010

17 Characteristic Two: The Catholic School/Academy recognizes parents as the primary educators of their children. The Holy See s Teaching on Catholic Schools, Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB Standards Indicators Students/Alumni Faculty Parents Administrators Rating Indicate S or A before comment 1. Parents are involved and support Existence of a Home and School the education of the children Association or similar group Criteria of an Excellent Catholic School, p.6 Distribution of Parent Satisfaction Surveys or other means of sharing comments 2. Administration, staff, students and Parents receive an annual report parents are conversant regarding the from the school principal or school s/academy s operational and Middle States Association long term plans Steering Committee Criteria of an Excellent Catholic School, p.11 The long term plans are presented in such a way that the Catholic Identity of the school/academy is evident 3. (Parents) are involved in extended Parent workshops are offered on learning opportunities offered by NYS Standards and/or Testing school to foster their participation in their child s learning Indicators of Academic Excellence, Section E Annual test interpretation parent meetings are held 4. (Parents) work with teachers to Parent/Teacher conferences are emphasize the importance of held regularly and demonstrate academic learning a caring, concerned attitude supporting the school s/ Indicators of Academic Excellence, academy s Catholic Identity Section E 17 OCTOBER 2010

18 Characteristic Two: The Catholic School/Academy recognizes parents as the primary educators of their children. The Holy See s Teaching on Catholic Schools, Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB Parents are supported in their efforts to be the child s first teacher 5. The principal offers support and Parents are urged to join in the spiritual substance to parents by planning and implementation inviting their participation in of prayer services, retreats, and faith development opportunities other spiritual growth opportunities Criteria for Excellence in Catholic School Leadership, p.2 Parents are urged to participate in Sacramental preparation programs and activities Students are urged to communicate with their parents as their faith life develops 6. The principal models effective Power Point presentations are use of technology offered at Home and School Association meetings Criteria for Excellence in Catholic School Leadership, p.3 Communication takes place using updated technology that is user friendly 18 OCTOBER 2010

19 Characteristic Three: The Catholic School is deeply rooted in Christian culture. The Holy See s Teaching on Catholic Schools, Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB Standards Indicators Students/Alumni Faculty Parents Administrators Rating Indicate S or A before comment 1. School/Academy administration, Committee membership includes faculty, and students identify and all major school/academy integrate core Catholic beliefs and constituent groups values in developing the school s mission statement Internal surveys or small group conversations are held during Criteria of an Excellent the development of the school s Catholic School, p.1 mission statement 2. Instruction provides for evangeliza- The Religion curriculum follows tion, which incorporates the values Diocesan Policy and National and teachings of the Magisterium Norms of the Catholic Church The local leadership provides for Criteria of an Excellent a multi-faceted faith formation Catholic School, p.1 program for faculty, staff, parents and students The Religion textbooks are chosen from the USCCB approved textbook list 3. Religious symbols are present in the A crucifix of appropriate size school/academy building and stature is present in a place of prominence in each room Criteria of an Excellent Catholic School, p.2 Religious statues, icons, and other artwork is display appropriately throughout the school/ academy building 19 OCTOBER 2010

20 Characteristic Three: The Catholic School is deeply rooted in Christian culture. The Holy See s Teaching on Catholic Schools, Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB 4. Printed and oral communication All school communications from the school/academy highlights demonstrate clearly the Catholic the school s Catholic Identity and Identity of the school/academy academic nature The school/academy has some Criteria of an Excellent particular logo or artwork that Catholic School, 2 identifies itself as a Catholic school/academy 5. (School/Academy programs/ Propagation of the Faith instruction) promotes students programs are supported and understanding of our global society encouraged Indicators of Academic Excellence, #8 The school/academy community responds to specific world events such as tsunamis, hurricanes, famine, etc. 6. The school/academy builds a faith Morning prayer, prayer before community through routine and and after lunch and prayer at ceremonial religious rituals the end of the day is seen as a regular part of the school/ Criteria for Excellence in academy day Catholic School Leadership Certain rituals are historically associated with special days, liturgical seasons, and special school events/occasions 20 OCTOBER 2010

21 Characteristic Four: Community and Communion animate a Catholic School/Academy. The Holy See s Teaching on Catholic Schools, Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB Standards Indicators Students/Alumni Faculty Parents Administrators Rating Indicate S or A before comment 1. Parish priests are visible in the The priest regularly celebrates school/academy the school/academy Masses Criteria of an Excellent Catholic School, p.2 The priest visits the classroom regularly and greets the students and teachers The priest is a active and involved member of the school/ academy community 2. There is evidence of parish involve- Parishioners volunteer in ment in the school/academy the school/academy Criteria of an Excellent Catholic School, p.6 Parishioners are seen as valued members of the school community and are treated with respect 3. The Pastor (The Members) fosters School/Academy business and (foster) participation of the school news is published in the parish community in appropriate parish, weekly bulletin and announcemulti-parish projects and celebrations ments made at Mass Criteria for Excellence in Catholic School Leadership, p.2 When the opportunity presents itself, the Pastor (Member) promotes active involvement in school/academy programs and activities to support the school/ academy 21 OCTOBER 2010

22 Characteristic Four: Community and Communion animate a Catholic School/Academy. The Holy See s Teaching on Catholic Schools, Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB 4. Governance serves the people of God Lay involvement in governance by helping them maintain order by is seen as a priority promoting and protecting the rights and obligations needed to carry out the mission Jesus gave to His church Criteria for Excellence in Catholic School Leadership, p OCTOBER 2010

23 Characteristic Five: The Catholic School/Academy is sustained by the Gospel witness of its teachers and administrators. The Holy See s Teaching on Catholic Schools, Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB Standards Indicators Students/Alumni Faculty Parents Administrators Rating Indicate S or A before comment 1. Leadership, faculty, and students The School/Academy updated are socialized, formed, and evaluated Mission Statement is printed in terms of their contributions to in all handbooks and other the school s/academy s identity appropriate places and mission The Mission Statement is Criteria of an Excellent displayed prominently in the Catholic School, p. 2 school s/academy s entry 2. Ongoing professional development, Faculty and administrators take clearly defined roles and responsibi- part in professional development lities, and collegial relationships opportunities that further one s among staff and administration faith formation and spititual are evident and conducive to growth cooperative action Growing in one s faith is seen Criteria of an Excellent as a priority Catholic School, p. 6 Students benefit from the professional and faith formation growth of the faculty and administrators 3. The principal selects qualified staff The school/academy Mission members who promote a Catholic Statement and Philosophy is school climate. Interview questions clearly stated for applicants support the teacher s potential to provide Gospel witness The Interview Questions reflect the particular Catholic Identity Criteria for Excellence in of the school/academy and seek Catholic School Leadership, p.1 to probe the applicant s understanding of the Catholic Faith. 23 OCTOBER 2010

24 Characteristic Five: The Catholic School/Academy is sustained by the Gospel witness of its teachers and administrators. The Holy See s Teaching on Catholic Schools, Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB 4. The principal strives to become a Faculty and staff attend visible member of the parish, sacramental celebrations in multi-parish community various parishes where students worship Criteria for Excellence in Catholic School Leadership, p.2 Students see faculty members and/or principal attend Mass Parents are encouraged by the principal to attend Mass and the sacraments 24 OCTOBER 2010

25 Characteristic Six: Catholic morals and virtues permeate the entire Catholic School/Academy Curriculum. The Holy See s Teaching on Catholic Schools, Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB Standards Indicators Students/Alumni Faculty Parents Administrators Rating Indicate S or A before comment 1. Religion classes are offered regularly Religion classes are scheduled and are given a priority in scheduling according to Diocesan policy Criteria of an Excellent Catholic School, p.2 Religion classes are never deleted from the schedule due to other events or activities 2. Catholic values are infused in all Staff participates in workshops subject areas presented by the Diocese of Brooklyn Criteria of an Excellent Catholic School, p.2 Staff participates in the Catechist Formation program entitled Living and Leading By Faith The students are provided with an appropriate bibliography of Catholic literature Diocesan Curriculum Guidelines are always followed Class schedules are reviewed and approved by the principal 3. The principal oversees the integration The principal provides leaderof Gospel values into the curriculum ship by regular periods of classroom supervision Criteria for Excellence in Catholic School Leadership, p,2 25 OCTOBER 2010

26 Characteristic Six: Catholic morals and virtues permeate the entire Catholic School/Academy Curriculum. The Holy See s Teaching on Catholic Schools, Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB The principal provides teachers with the ability to purchase supplemental religious materials The school/academy celebrates its Catholic Identity in concrete ways throughout the year Gospel values are promoted and encouraged through a variety of opportunities provided to students at all grade levels 4. The Teachers use student s talents Academic, Service, and Religious and interests to help students master awards are given to students the curriculum and believe in according to a fair and just policy themselves The school/academy makes use Indicators of Academic Excellence, of events such as Talent Shows Section C to promote self worth The students are encouraged to provide service to others in a variety of ways and means 26 OCTOBER 2010

27 Short Form of the Catholic Identity Self Assessment Process The Short Form of the Catholic Identity Self Assessment Process is to be completed each year leading up to and following the submission of the Long Form of the Catholic Identity Self Assessment Process. The Short Form is to be completed only after a careful examination of the school s/academy s Catholic Identity and by using the accompanying forms and resources. Various Church documents shall serve to assist in assessing Catholic Identity. A listing of these documents is found in the Appendix. This report is due to the Superintendent of Schools by May 1 st of each year with the exception of the year that the Catholic Identity Assessment Instrument Report is submitted. Depending upon the date that your school/academy will begin the process of formally assessing your Catholic Identity using the more detailed Catholic Identity Assessment Instrument, you may first use the Shorter Form. If you have not yet formed your local Catholic Identity Committee, please refer to sections below taken from the previous document entitled Catholic Identity Assessment Local Catholic Identity Committee, Instrument, and Report Guidelines. 1. The Pastor/Members, Directors and Principal should read and review all related documents. 2. In cooperation with the Pastor/Members, the principal should select and seek confirmation from six to nine people to form the local Catholic Identity Committee. They should be chosen from among the following groups and should be able to make a commitment to the committee for at least one year: a. Directors b. Parents c. Faculty members d. Advisory Board Members e. Parish Pastoral Council members f. Catechetical staff (paid and/or volunteer) g. Alumni h. Students 3. The Catholic Identity Committee members must attend an informational session that will detail the Catholic Identity Assessment Process 27 OCTOBER 2010

28 Short Form of the Catholic Identity Self Assessment Process Catholic Schools are vital to the Church s mission of evangelization and catechesis. They exist in order to educate the whole person: mind, body, and soul. They present the totality of the Catholic faith. Whether Catholic schools are part of a parish structure or are regional, diocesan, or private, growth in the Catholic faith for the children and young people who attend them is essential to their identity and purpose. National Directory for Catechesis, USCCB, 2005, p. 262 The Annual Catholic Identity Assessment Report (Short Form) is to be completed each year leading up to and following the submission by the school/ academy to the Office of the Superintendent ~ Catholic School Support Services of the Catholic Identity Assessment Instrument Report. Please review and update your Catholic Identity Assessment Instrument and report the school s/academy s final score below. This report is due to the Superintendent of Schools by May 1st of each year with the exception of the year that the Catholic Identity Assessment Instrument Report is submitted. Name of School/Academy Principal Telephone Catholic Identity Committee Members Date Assessment Process Started Ended Name of Person who wrote the Report Previous Catholic Identity Assessment Score Present Score Report submitted to Office of the Superintendent~Catholic School Support Services on: 28 OCTOBER 2010

29 PART A Please list all Church Documents relating to Catholic Identity that the Catholic Identity Local Committee consulted before preparing and writing this Annual Report: PART B Please answer each of the following questions clearly and concisely: 1. Do you have a clearly written statement that defines the school s/academy s mission? Does it need to be revised? 2. Are you achieving what you say you are in your mission statement? 3. How do you know that you are achieving what you say you are in your mission statement? 4. What steps is the school/academy taking to foster all aspects the school s/academy s Catholic Identity? 5. What does each group (faculty, staff, students/alumni, parents, etc.) of the school s/academy s community do to keep the school s/academy s Catholic Identity alive? 6. What does each group (faculty, staff, students/alumni, parents, etc.) do to enhance and further the school s/academy s Catholic Identity? 29 OCTOBER 2010

30 PART C After reviewing the answers to the questions above and carefully consulting your Middle States Report and your Catholic Identity Assessment Instrument Report, identify three goals to be achieved during the next three years and state the specific steps that will be taken to achieve each of the goals (Action Plan). Be sure to mention how each goal will be evaluated. Note: You should not have separate sets of goals for each report you are asked to prepare. Use the same Catholic Identity goals for each report. Goal #1: Plan of Action: Evaluation Process: 30 OCTOBER 2010

31 Goal #2: Plan of Action: Evaluation Process: 31 OCTOBER 2010

32 Goal #3: Plan of Action: Evaluation Process: 32 OCTOBER 2010

33 PART D Your Celebration of Faith Please state the way in which you will celebrate your school s/academy s Catholic Identity this year. Be as specific as possible. Ideas and suggestions may be found on the Diocesan DioNet. 33 OCTOBER 2010