A superintendent’s letter, written from the heart:

By Janet Eaton

This year marks my 40th year in Catholic education. That means celebrating Catholic Schools Week 40 times. When I think back on those years, I am most grateful for so many things. From my early days as a teacher and then principal at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, to my tenure in the Archdiocese of St. Louis, where I served as both an elementary and high school principal, and now in this role as superintendent, I have so many beautiful memories.  

Although the years have passed quickly, my heart still lies within the four walls of a classroom as a teacher. It is there that formation really happens. It is there that my life was so blessed by great student relationships and great team efforts built with parents.  

Today, the Diocese of Wichita is blessed with 788 teachers, administrators, and other professional staff who work in 38 schools, plus another 592 who serve the school as staff, either full or part time. Our schools thrive because of these individuals who commit to the very best. The list of names would be very long   A few highlights might include:   

• Patty Yoakam, 40-year teacher at Parson’s St. Patrick Catholic School, who drives more than 40 miles a day to teach at the school;

• Greg Goertz, middle school religion teacher at Wichita’s St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School, who also spends each summer helping at the Christ the Teacher Retreat;

• Lori Luman, middle school math teacher at Wichita’s St. Thomas Catholic School, who ensures her students are ready to thrive in high school;

• Elaine Howey, fourth grade teacher at Wichita’s St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School, who makes teaching come alive constantly with relevant projects;

• Sr. Mary Therese, IHM, first grade teacher at Ost’s St. Joseph Catholic School, who creates the happiest and most caring atmosphere one could ever ask for;

• Jesus Medina, third-fourth combination teacher at Coffeyville’s Holy Name Catholic School, who followed his calling to teach in a Catholic School;

• Sean McKinney, interim principal at Wichita’s All Saints Catholic School, who left the classroom to lead the school when there was a late opening;

• Chris Jaax, social studies teacher at Wichita’s Bishop Carroll Catholic High School, who teaches and coaches with great humility grounded by his faith; and

• Gabi Palmer, first year teacher in 4th grade at Hutchinson’s Holy Cross Catholic School, who is thriving in all aspects of teaching.

It is on the shoulders of these and so many more great educators that we celebrate and praise God for their gifts. If you know a diocesan school teacher, please reach out to share your appreciation.

Janet Eaton is the Diocese of Wichita’s Superintendent of Catholic Schools.