Archdiocese of Detroit: City Schools Strategic Growth and Sustainability Plan
In a proactive move to plan the future with its five city schools, the Archdiocese of Detroit partnered with Meitler in 2019 to develop a strategic growth and sustainability plan. The strategic growth plan addresses the population dynamics in the city of Detroit which has been undergoing a renaissance of development and growth. Building on this new trend, it provides a short and long-term vision for the next three to five years to ensure these schools continue to offer quality Catholic education for inner city children.
Leadership engaged in the planning process included the pastors and principals of the five schools (Christ the King Catholic School, Holy Redeemer Grade School, Gesu Catholic School, Most Holy Trinity School, and St. Clare of Montefalco Catholic School), the Superintendent of Catholic Schools, city pastor representation, lay leaders from the community, and members of the Archdiocesan School Board. Local school board members from the five schools were also engaged during the process with opportunities to share their insights and vision.
Following the implementation plan and schedule developed as part of the planning process, leadership of the schools in the city have been working diligently and moving forward. Stephen Wasko, Assistant Superintendent, who leads the implementation process with parishes and the schools, notes that as a result of the plan “a number of high-level actions steps have served to create the best practices network of schools and educators envisioned by the planners.” A professional learning community has been established among the principals to share best practices in leadership and serves as a “rich network of support” to provide regular sharing of ideas and solutions. The schools are developing connections with city and community groups and agencies to support their efforts including the Office of Black Catholic Ministry, Native American and African American scholarship funds as well as local tutoring and student enrichment resources. In addition, the five schools working together have presented a coordinated effort in working with the Independent School District and Local Education Agencies in securing federal title funding.
...a number of high-level actions steps have served to create the best practices network of schools and educators envisioned by the planners.”
