by Kathy O’Hara
Dear friends of Catholic schools,
Many of you are aware that last October, I announced that I would be retiring at the end of the school year. As I write this final column as superintendent of Catholic schools for the archdiocese, I find myself looking back but also looking forward.
When I first came to serve in the office of Catholic schools, I had no idea what a blessing it would be in my life. I have had the opportunity to meet and work with so many truly good individuals. I owe tremendous gratitude to:
• Archbishop Emeritus Keleher, Archbishop Naumann, and all of the pastors with whom I have worked, all who are strong supporters of Catholic schools;
• All of the school leaders who work many long hours each day to ensure that our students are encountering joyfully Catholic men and women who want to help them grow spiritually and in developing their God-given gifts and talents;
• All of the teachers who pour their hearts and souls into their ministry and whose love of their students is evident;
• All of the parents who sacrifice to send their precious children to our schools;
• All of the many, many volunteers who serve on boards, councils, parent groups and a myriad of other committees, who are so generous with their time, talent and treasure;
• All of the donors who make it possible for more than $10,000,000 to be raised each year to support Catholic schools with operations and scholarships;
• All of my colleagues who serve in the offices of the chancery who offer so much support to the Catholic school office and to the schools;
• All of the members of the Catholic school office staff throughout the years, who dedicated themselves to serving our school leaders to the best of their ability;
• All of the students whose tears and laughter remind us all of why we serve.
It is because of the efforts of everyone mentioned, and through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, that our schools have a clear sense of the purpose of education in general — and Catholic education in specific — as outlined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church and other documents of the church.
It is because of their efforts that children in Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas are increasing “in wisdom and stature” (Lk 2:52).
As I look back, I thank God for all that has been accomplished in our schools. As I look forward, I thank God for providing such a fine educator and man of faith, Dr. Vince Cascone, to lead our schools into the future. There is much yet to do!
¡Vaya con Dios!
