THANK YOU FOR PARTICIPATING IN CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK 2010!

"Catholic Schools - Dividends for Life" was the theme for Catholic Schools Week 2010 which was observed Jan. 31st to Feb. 6th.

I have been on the job for a year and a half now and in that time have traveled many miles visiting our Catholic Schools. I am encouraged by the efforts of so many people who have chosen to invest their money, time and energy in the parochial schools in this diocese because they believe in Catholic education. The seventeen schools within the boundaries of our diocese have a proud tradition as some of the earliest educational institutions to serve the many fledgling communities that comprised northern Michigan in the late 19^th century. These consist of fifteen elementary schools (four of which are K-8), one middle school, and four secondary schools. Although these schools operate on seventeen different campuses, they are very much one system with one Gospel mission, one faith integrated curriculum and one collaborative team of educators and support staff.

Currently I have two children (Allison Grace 10 & Madelyn Rose 9) benefiting from a Catholic education here in the Diocese, with two sons (Charles Benjamin 5 & Zachary Thomas 3) waiting patiently at home. It has only been in the last few years that I have begun to truly appreciate all of the sacrifices (time, money, and transportation) that my parents made in order to send me to a Catholic School.

Thank you for the loving example that so many of you witness at home and in our Parish/School communities every day. After experiencing another Catholic Schools Week in our fabulous diocese, I would like to say thank you for all of the many things that each of you do to help realize the mission of our schools. It is truly a privilege and an honor to serve this diocese. May God continue to bless our efforts.

Mr. Charles Taylor, Superintendent of Catholic Schools Diocese of Gaylord