Bright Lights of Catholic Education
Reflection by Dr. Steven F. Cheeseman, NCEA President/CEO
In the Diocese of Arlington, Catholic schools are more than classrooms; they are dynamic communities where faith and learning flourish together. Spanning 21 counties and seven independent cities in Northern Virginia, the diocese is home to 41 Catholic schools serving more than 16,500 students. Under the leadership of Bishop Michael F. Burbidge and Superintendent Dr. Joseph E. Vorbach, III, Catholic education here emphasizes both academic excellence and the formation of joyful missionary disciples, preparing students to lead with faith, integrity, and service.
I had the privilege to visit the Diocese of Arlington and witness the thriving spirit of Catholic education in Northern Virginia as I visited three of their Catholic schools: St. Agnes School, Bishop O’Connell High School, and St. Anthony of Padua School. Each of these schools shines as a “bright light” in its own unique way, illuminating the path for students and families.
My first stop was St. Agnes School, a vibrant community of 450 students that is “over capacity and thriving.” The energy of the principal is infectious, and it’s clear that the entire staff is dedicated to the students’ success. A recent addition of a new turf field behind the school is a testament to the school’s growth. I was particularly impressed by the school’s implementation of the “Leader in Me” program. This framework, based on Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, empowers students with leadership and life skills. By marrying a habit with a virtue each month, the school ensures every grade has a job, fostering a sense of responsibility and purpose. Students I spoke with emphasized the strong connections they build, the faith-filled community, and the well-prepared education they receive, all contributing to a sense of unity and belonging.
Next, I visited Bishop O’Connell High School, a school that is a model of innovation and inclusion. With a student body of 1,200, this high school has a powerful history, having been founded by six parishes. The school has improved its climate and culture by utilizing a system that requires students to lock their phones away throughout the school day. This simple act has created a kinder school environment almost immediately. Another remarkable initiative is the section of the school dedicated to students with intellectual disabilities. This program not only provides opportunities for peer mentoring but also enriches the entire school community. Students told me that the school is a “bright light” because of its focus on helping others, its cultivation of diverse interests, and its long-standing tradition of service, including the annual “Super Dance,” which raised a significant amount of money for cystic fibrosis.
My final stop was St. Anthony of Padua School, a community with a joyful spirit and an incredible diversity of students who speak 12 different languages at home. The families here are highly motivated and deeply value their Catholic education. The school’s robust CYO sports program is impressive, with both the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams winning their competitions this year. I was also touched to see that in addition to the main chapel, the school has a separate, serene space for adoration. The school’s commitment to community is evident in their daily ritual of gathering all students in the cafeteria to say a prayer before dismissal, a wonderful way to end the day. The principal’s energy and passion for the students, including running the middle school drama club, is palpable and truly a bright light.
Each of these schools is a testament to the power of Catholic education. They are not only nurturing the minds of their students but are also forming them into loving Christians, leaders, and compassionate members of their communities. The Diocese of Arlington is doing something truly special, and it was an honor to witness it firsthand.
FACTS is dedicated to making educational dreams possible for families and students while enhancing the financial stability and affordability of education. Serving over 12,000 schools worldwide and more than three million students and families, FACTS provides a comprehensive suite of services designed to support administrators and learners alike in delivering exceptional educational experiences. FACTS works with many Catholic schools and dioceses across the United States and is proud to power the NCEA “Bright Lights of Catholic Education” tour, continuing its commitment to Catholic education for years to come.
