Efforts are moving forward to ensure the vitality and sustainability of Catholic education in the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown.
The “To PROCLAIM and TEACH” strategic planning process for Catholic schools is happening in partnership among the diocese, the Independent Catholic Foundation, and Meitler, the national Catholic school planning firm.
ICF Board members presented a check for $32,000 to Bishop Mark on January 27 to cover the costs associated with the strategic planning process.
Foundation President/CEO Chris Ringkamp said the organization is happy to underwrite this important initiative.
“We’re pleased to be able to use our resources to remove any financial burden that the schools, parishes, and diocese may not have to put toward the first two phases of the study,” he said.
Phase one of the process, which involved data collection, was completed last year. Phase two is underway, which includes building a strategic plan in concert with school leaders and pastors.
“We want our Catholic schools around for the long haul,” Ringkamp added.
[Photo (left to right): Independent Catholic Foundation President/CEO Chris Ringkamp; ICF board members Joe Lehman, Tom McAneny, and Mary Beth Lieb; Bishop Mark; and ICF board member Jackie Martella.]Â
