About Us — Superintendent of Catholic Schools' Message

May 5, 2005

Dear Community of Archdiocesan Parents and Educators,

Rooted in Gospel values and the teaching mission of the Catholic Church, Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Washington are learning communities of faith and service dedicated to educational equity and excellence for all students. The Catholic Schools Office is committed to the ongoing development and enhancement of schools’ Catholic Identity, Leadership, Educational Excellence and Access for all students.

For several years, the Archdiocese has been committed to the development of programs and services that foster the inclusion of students with disabilities into our Catholic schools. As the Archdiocese evaluates progress toward this challenging commitment, we are ever mindful of the need to not only effectively address those students we currently serve with special needs, but also expand our doors wider welcoming a more diverse population of students. Dedicated to this growth, we understand that Catholic schools rely on partnerships with parents and various community resources.

One such community resource is the Catholic Coalition for Special Education (CCSE), a devoted group of parents and professionals working to raise disability related awareness and financial resources for Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Washington. As Superintendent of Catholic schools, I support the CCSE and those initiatives that work to provide students with disabilities access to a Catholic Education.

I look forward to the positive changes that will occur in our schools as a result of the dedication, work, and the commitment to change, that CCSE represents. The mission of this organization complements and enhances the mission and goals of the Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Washington.

I encourage all who believe that children with disabilities should have access to a Catholic Education to support the work of CCSE as they develop programming and resources for Catholic Schools and families.

May God bless the work of CCSE and the leadership provided by Mrs. Francesca Pellegrino, Founder and Board Chair. We are truly grateful for their commitment and dedication to our children.

Sincerely,

Patricia A. Weitzel-O’Neill, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Catholic Schools