Diocese’s superintendent extends invitation to parents and teachers
By Janet Eaton
As a farm girl, my mother was a teacher and my father a farmer. I grew up between a town to the west with a Catholic school and a town to the north with a public school.
From the farm, both locations were about the same distance. My siblings and I attended the local public school. With both of my parents deceased, today I wonder if they ever thought of enrolling their children in Catholic school. As the daughter of a teacher, my mom loved her days teaching at both of these schools – the Catholic school to the west and the public school to the north. With that as the backdrop, I want to take this opportunity to offer two invitations.
Invitation Number 1: Catholic parents with school age children who attend public schools or homeschools.
We want all active Catholic families to know how much we would love to welcome them to our Catholic schools. We have 34 parish schools. The 34 schools are indeed spread from one corner of the diocese to the other. No matter your current school setting, please receive this invitation to check out the Catholic school in your area. What questions might you have?
I did not grow up in Catholic schools and so I don’t know how to approach the matter of sending my children to a Catholic School. Where do I start?
If your parish has a school, call the principal. If your parish does not have a school, contact either your parish priest or the school principal where you would like to send your children. Our pastors and principals all work closely, they will guide you from there. Parents also may call our diocesan office at 316-269-3950 and we will assist you.
What stands out with the Catholic Schools?
Faith – no doubt, that is number 1! Our teachers spend countless hours helping children develop a true love for Jesus Christ. Yes, our students know their faith, but our goal is that they fall in love with their faith. We see that constantly.
What is the tuition?
For active parish families there is no tuition. Through the commitment of stewardship, our school families need to be active in a parish. They must attend Mass, be involved and help support the parish. Through the generosity of stewardship, we manage our Catholic enrollment without tuition.
Are the teachers licensed?
Yes, our teachers follow all licensure requirements within the state of Kansas, similar to a public school.
How well do the diocesan schools perform?
All students in the state of Kansas annually take the Kansas Assessment Test. In comparison with the public schools of the state, we outperform our public school counterparts in every grade level and in every subject matter! All scores are public knowledge on the state’s website.
Invitation Number 2: Licensed Teachers: If you are a teacher, but not working in our Catholic schools, consider joining us! We need you!
I have never considered teaching in a Catholic School. Where do I start?
Contact Assistant Superintendent Kristin Schmitz at 316-269-3950 or [email protected]. She will walk you through the entire process.
How many teachers are there in the Diocese?
Each day, 751 educators go to work in our schools. We have teachers ranging from those who work with pre-school to those who lead seniors in high school.
What could I look forward to as a teacher?
The list is ever so long:
• A great environment whereby your faith will grow every day;
• Terrific colleagues who are professional in every way and who love what they do;
• Tremendous parent-support, for example most of our teachers will have 100% of their parents attend conferences; and
• An unscripted curriculum with educators having autonomy to teach the curriculum in a way that best suits their students.
I’ve heard the pay is lower. What about benefits?
Each parish establishes the salary for its teachers and so there is variance. We are making great strides! If you need specific information about salary, don’t hesitate to call us and we can help you. We have a thorough benefits package that includes insurance and a retirement fund.
Do I need to be Catholic to teach in a Catholic School?
No. Most of our parishes are open to having teachers of other faith traditions.
Where do I see the openings for next school year: https://catholicdioceseofwichita.org/careers/
I sincerely hope that you take us on either invitation. Our theme this year is “His Plan, Our Purpose!” Join us as we strive to fulfill his Plan! We would love to welcome you or anyone that you know.