Dear Parishioners of St. Clare of Montefalco Parish,
This past November, all schools in the Archdiocese of Detroit were asked to develop a new Strategic Plan for their schools. The purpose behind this endeavor is to strengthen and refocus Catholic Education in the Archdiocese of Detroit. Using Archbishop Vigneron’s “Unleash the Gospel” as a guide, Pastors and Principals were asked to put together a team and begin looking at how St. Clare School presently functions. Our Strategic Planning Committee includes parish members, a current family member, alumni, former teachers, a current teacher, alumni parents as well as our principal and pastor. Since December, we have been meeting twice a month and will continue to do so until our planning process is completed. At this time, we feel strongly that we will be finished by the end of July!
The Archdiocese of Detroit has asked each school to evaluate itself based on four pillars: 1) Catholic Mission and Identity, 2) Governance and Leadership, 3) Academic Excellence and 4) Operational Vitality. It has been the committee’s responsibility to determine focus areas, establish goals for each focus area, define objectives, and develop action steps for each of the four pillars. In addition to the four pillars, all schools were asked to rewrite their mission and vision statements.
Our Strategic Planning Committee is currently working on the last piece of the plan, Operational Vitality as well as any final changes that need to be made. When we are confident that we have developed a strong “roadmap” for the future of St. Clare School, we will then submit our plan to the Archdiocese of Detroit for approval.
I ask for continued prayers as we conclude this long, yet spirit-filled journey. Also, know that through this planning process, we have continued to make sure our school community provides every opportunity for our student to develop their God given gifts and talents.
With many blessings
Ann Tonissen, Principal
St. Clare Strategic Planning Committee Members