Growing a Future of Faith, Excellence and Leadership – Celebrating Catholic Schools Week

Superintendent’s Message
Dr. Nancy A. Rottler

Catholic schools across the Diocese of Greensburg are growing a future of faith, excellence and leadership. This statement captures the spirit alive in each of our 12 schools as we prepare to celebrate Catholic Schools Week 2026, Jan. 25-31, throughout the Diocese.

As Superintendent of Catholic Schools, I know this is more than a slogan — it is our commitment to the families who sacrifice to provide the gift of a Catholic education. Through that sacrifice, students are formed academically, spiritually and morally as future leaders and disciples of Christ.

Catholic Schools Week offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made over the past year. One of our most significant areas of growth has been in faith formation. The Office of Catholic Schools and the Office of Faith, Family and Discipleship — under the leadership of Managing Director Vincent Reilly — have worked collaboratively to strengthen Catholic identity across our schools. Starting last fall, twice a year, teachers and principals participate in a diocesan in-service day that includes theological formation and catechist certification. This important initiative equips our faculty and staff to more effectively partner in forming students in faith and deepening their understanding of what it means to live as disciples of Christ.

We have also seen notable improvements across all areas of our educational mission, as reflected in our annual Catholic Schools Survey. Each year, parents and guardians provide invaluable feedback, and the results this year are especially encouraging. Parent satisfaction with our religious education programs increased from 88% to an outstanding 92%. Additionally, 80% of parents reported that their school principals inspire and lead their communities toward educational excellence — up from 76% the previous year.

Another significant improvement measured through the survey is parent engagement and community connection. Parent involvement has increased markedly, with 83% of parents reporting that they are involved or very involved in their school communities, up from 70% last year. This 13-point increase reflects the welcoming and supportive environments cultivated within our schools and demonstrates the strong partnership between our families, faculty and administrators.

Our commitment to academic excellence continues to bear fruit. Diocese of Greensburg eighth-grade students demonstrated projected proficiency rates that exceed their public-school peers by 18% in reading and 17% in math, based on STAR State Proficiency Rate estimates. These outcomes reflect the dedication of our teachers and the strong academic foundation provided in our classrooms.

As we form students to become leaders of tomorrow, we are proud of our partnership with Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Greensburg to develop a leadership camp for student leaders from all 12 schools. Last year, these students gathered for a day of collaboration and activities designed to strengthen leadership skills and reinforce values that will guide them beyond our schools. We have also established strong partnerships with local colleges and universities, including Seton Hill University and Saint Vincent College, to provide additional programming and support for our students.

We recognize that choosing a Catholic education often requires financial sacrifice. We do not believe any family should be prevented from accessing Catholic education due to financial circumstances. Therefore, we are deeply grateful to our generous donors, especially the anonymous benefactor of the Saint Pope John Paul II Tuition Opportunity Partnership (TOPS). This year, more than 600 students received tuition assistance through the TOPS scholarship program.

We are equally thankful to those who redirect their Pennsylvania state taxes to support Catholic education through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program. This past year, more than $3 million was donated through EITC, providing scholarships to over 1,200 students. Looking ahead, the future is even more promising. In 2027, new federal tax credit programs will begin, creating additional opportunities to support Catholic education.

Ensuring the financial vitality of our schools remains a top priority. Last year, we successfully accessed funding through the Economically Disadvantaged Schools (EDS) Program and continue to receive safety grants through the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) and the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). We remain committed to identifying and pursuing new funding streams to sustain and strengthen our schools. Those interested in supporting Catholic education through the EITC or TOPS programs are encouraged to contact William Barnes at [email protected] or 724-552-2589.

To the parents, grandparents and guardians who choose Catholic education for the students in your lives — please know you have my heartfelt gratitude. Our administrators, faculty, and staff bring exceptional dedication and unique gifts to their work each day, and I am immensely proud of their service. Most of all, thank you to our families for your steadfast support of Catholic education in the Diocese of Greensburg. Your commitment ensures a future rooted in faith, excellence and leadership.