As the first day of school approaches, the excitement of a new school year is already evident in so many ways!
The 19 diocesan principals held their first meeting this week. This year we added some new faces to this distinguished group. We are pleased to welcome two new principals: Dr. Carl Semmler at Christ the King High School in Huntersville and Amy Tobergte at St. Patrick School in Charlotte. We also welcome back Tyler Kulp at Sacred Heart School in Salisbury, who began his tenure as principal at the end of the previous school year.
The diocesan Schools Office has already held its in-service training for our new group of teacher-mentors. This group of experienced educators will be of tremendous support to new teachers throughout this coming year. It is truly a testimony to their dedication to education and their commitment to their colleagues that they would volunteer to take on this important task. We have also met with those beginning teachers, and we are pleased that they have chosen to begin their teaching career in the Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Schools.
Our mission in Catholic education is to proclaim the Good News of the Gospel and to provide a religious and academic program that allows each student to develop spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, physically and socially, so that each is prepared to live and serve in a changing society as a self-respecting citizen. Our school communities are places where young people can grow in faith and knowledge in a safe and caring environment. We always welcome new families and students to be part of this mission.
On behalf of the administration, faculty and staff throughout all 19 diocesan Catholic schools, I extend our prayers and good wishes for an academically and spiritually fulfilling and successful school year.
Dr. Janice Ritter is superintendent of the Diocese of Charlotte Catholic Schools system.