The challenges facing Catholic schools today require strong and well-qualified leaders who can provide the professional expertise necessary to strengthen them. Now, more than ever, the role of the superintendent of Catholic schools has become crucial in providing strong leadership for the benefit of the students.
In 2005, the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) published DEALS 2005: A National Profile of the Catholic School Superintendency. This was followed by a similar survey in 2009 which created a longitudinal study to provide a greater understanding of the superintendency of Catholic schools in the United States. As with the prior studies, the present publication demonstrates the changing demographics of those who lead diocesan systems of education serving more than 1.9 million students enrolled in more than 6,500 Catholic schools in the United States.
An Overview of DEALS 2015: A National Profile of the Catholic Superintendency was presented at NCEA 2015 Catholic Leadership Summit by authors Sr. Dale McDonald, PBVM, Ph.D. and Gerard Cattaro Ed.D.
Data explores trends within the superintendency and points to areas of focus for the future including, but not limited to: willingness to relocate, education background, employment history, gender, and salary and benefits.
Recommendations are made to address the increase of layperson-led dioceses through mentoring, faith formation and spiritual leadership, academic leadership, enculturation and financial security. Diocese must provide high-quality programs to recruit and prepare future diocesan administrators. Dioceses should also pursue the active involvement and cooperation of Catholic higher education to create professional development opportunities for potential superintendents as well as ongoing program to mentor superintendents.
Catholic schools are an important part of the teaching mission of the Catholic Church. As we look to the future of Catholic schools and the many challenges they will face, it is critically important that qualified leaders be identified. As this publication points out, those who currently hold such positions are dedicated professionals with rich backgrounds of preparation and experience. Our diocesan leaders are providing an invaluable service to the Church.
To purchase a copy of DEALS 2015: A National Profile of the Catholic Superintendency, please click here. The authors are most grateful to the superintendents who took time to complete the surveys, the results of which are reflected in this publication and the attendees to the CLS session who provided qualitative feedback and discussion surrounding the data report.
