WEDNESDAY WOW!

Weekly Update from the Catholic Schools Office

June 3, 2026


Dear Principals and Directors,


Thank you for your participation in last week's faith retreat. Your presence, reflection, and fellowship made the experience truly meaningful.


As we continue our shared ministry of Catholic education, we are grateful for your faithful leadership, dedication, and witness to the Gospel each day. May the theme for the new school year, "Be His Heart in the World," continue to inspire and guide us as we bring Christ's love, compassion, and hope to those entrusted to our care.


Thank you again for all you do to advance the mission of Catholic education.



Blessings,



Karen

FIRST THINGS FIRST

News, updates & reminders

RETIREMENT ANNOUNCEMENT


After nearly 19 years of service with the Diocese of Kansas City ~ St. Joseph, I will be retiring at the end of June. My journey began at St. James Catholic School, Liberty, and St. Pius X High School, and concluded with the Catholic Schools Office. Each role has been a blessing, and I am deeply grateful for the leaders, colleagues, and mentors who have guided and supported me along the way. 


As I begin this new chapter, I look forward to traveling with my husband, spending more time with my grandson and adult children, helping care for our aging parents, to connecting with friends, and continuing to support our Catholic Schools. While I will miss being part of Catholic education, I trust that God is leading me into this next adventure with purpose and grace.


Thank you for the many memories, friendships, and opportunities to serve.  


Sherri Hennen

2026-2027 SCHOOL SPECIAL EVENT DATES


Principals and Directors,


As we prepare for the 2026-2027 school year, we would like to ensure that the CSO has a comprehensive overview of your major milestones. By mapping out these events in advance, we can better avoid scheduling conflicts and provide appropriate support for your important community gatherings.

Please use the link below to submit your graduation dates and primary fundraising or signature events:

https://forms.gle/qQxCjJJs18qb6UsY9


We appreciate you taking a few moments to help us coordinate our system-wide efforts.

BIST BITES


BIST training will be held this summer at John Knox Pavilion in Lee’s Summit July 27 - July 31. The cost to attend is $40 per person, this covers the cost of materials. You can use Title IV money to pay for it. Please sign up with Rebecka to get the $40 cost, if you use the web registration, we cannot guarantee the discounted price. 


SCHOOL STAFF ROSTERS FOR 2026-2027


As you work to finalize your staff rosters for the 2026-2027 school year, please go into your Google folder and update your rosters. These folder will be shared with you by a separate email.


We ask that all updates be completed by July 3rd.


CRISIS PLAN UPDATE


The crisis plan template is nearly complete, and we are still on track to have it available to you next week. Once finalized, a copy will be placed in your school folder. As soon as it has been uploaded, we will send out a notification so you may begin working on it. It will be due back to the Catholic Schools Office no later than August 3, 2026.



Thank you for your patience and support as we finalize this process.

WEBSITE AND DIGITAL CHECKLIST


Summer is just a few short days away!


Summer is the perfect time to review your website and make updates for the upcoming school year. Be sure to check out the Website/Digital Checklist below to see how your school’s digital presence measures up and to help you create a plan for improvement.


Website and Digital First Impressions Checklist

SUMMER WORKSHOPS


We are pleased to announce a series of professional development workshops available to you this summer. These sessions are designed to provide practical strategies and support as you prepare for the upcoming academic year.

To register for your preferred sessions, please scan the QR code located on the attached flyers.


Differentiated Instruction Workshops

Focused on tailoring instructional strategies to meet diverse student needs.

  • Grades K–2
  • June 23, 2026 | 9:00 am – 11:00 am
  • OR July 16, 2026 | 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm
  • Grades 3–5
  • June 22, 2026 | 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm
  • OR July 14, 2026 | 9:00 am – 11:00 am
  • Grades 6–8
  • June 12, 2026 | 9:00 am – 11:00 am
  • OR June 12, 2026 | 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm


The Science of Reading

Explores evidence-based research on how students learn to read.

  • Date: June 24, 2026
  • Time: 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm


Location Details

All training sessions will be held at the Chancery, 6th Floor, in the Catholic Schools Office Classroom.

We look forward to collaborating with you this summer and supporting your continued professional growth.


Differentiated Instruction Workshop



The Science of Reading

June Prayer Intentions


Bishop Johnston: For the missionary sisters from our diocese who are in Russia, the Sisters in Jesus the Lord; that God will guide and protect them as they bring hope and healing through Jesus to those whom they serve.


Holy Father: Let us pray that sports be an instrument of peace, encounter, and dialogue among cultures and nations, and that they promote values such as respect, solidarity, and personal growth.

Upcoming Events & Meetings


New Principal / Director Meetings @ CSO

July 9 and 10


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