The author makes a case for Catholic education as the heart of Catholic schools, refuting arguments that this approach is too narrowly sectarian, too insular, and counterproductive to the ecumenical movement. He advocates challenging young people with the message of Catholicism and making the school a Christian community of service. (Author/SJL)

Discusses the role of the teacher, the school, and the community in child catechesis, and urges the development of catecheses that will help children to become mature and responsible adults. (AN)

Describes the steps being taken in the revision process of the Assessment of Catholic Religious Education (ACRE): revising the ACRE Religious Knowledge Section, development of score report forms, and program management. States that the main purpose of the revision is to support the teaching and learning environment in Catholic schools. (CJW)

Presents the Diocese of Paterson Schools' (New Jersey) response to the teacher shortage experienced by Catholic schools. States that in order to obtain new teachers to fill positions Paterson schools: used the National Teacher Recruitment Clearinghouse and the Armed Forces Troops to Teachers program, posted recruitment materials on Diocesan Web…

A model Home and School Association is described. (DB)

Discusses seven themes of social justice, and how their application to Catholic education can help schools better align American social systems with Gospel imperatives: (1) the life and dignity of the human; (2) the call of community, and participation; (3) rights and responsibilities; (4) options for the poor; (5) the dignity of work; (6)…

Discusses the increasing need for technology-based learning within the realm of Catholic education. Poses questions to help the planning and implementation process, including: (1) how does the learning environment amplify the sense of community? and (2) how does technology support the experience of community? (CJW)

Mary Hatwood Futrell, President, National Education Association; Gorden M. Ambach, President, University of the State of New York; Marian Wright Edelman, President, Children's Defense Fund; Rene C. Gonzalez, Office of Educational Research and Improvement; and Nancy Reagan identify students' noninstructional needs. (DMM)

Suggests ways that private schools support the public interest, focusing on educational research, reform, and opportunity; social issues; and economics. Looks at sources of public misunderstanding of the role of private schools. Sees the principal roles of nonpublic schools as sheltering private belief and protecting private conscience. (DMM)

States that, in Catholic schools, the Gospel mission--teaching the Gospel of Jesus to students--should be present in all aspects of the athletic experience. Asserts that encouraging participation in athletics, developing a moral-based athletic program, and properly supervising sports teams are all key elements in the excellence of Catholic…

Examines two schools of thought regarding interpersonal relationships in educational settings: the management and mental health perspectives. Discusses the school's role in helping children see their social/moral connection with the world. Urges teachers to help students develop empathy, learn to help others, and contribute to the community and…

Identifies areas to be considered in reviewing Catholic high schools' policies and practices regarding pregnant students; e.g., policy statements, the relationship of the student to the school community, support systems, the practicalities of parenting, legal responsibilities of the school, and public services. (DMM)

Asserts that schools can be academically excellent as well as authentically Catholic by employing both academic and faith-based methods of teaching. Cites three main areas responsible for student achievement: student ability, family background, and effective organization. Describes research supporting higher achievement in Catholic schools than in…

Asserts that it is time to formalize the practices involved in integrating values into Catholic education. Presents the six-step Educational Community Opportunity for Stewardship (ECOS) system and the Catholic Education Community manual as vital components in preparing teachers for values integration. Presents conceptual and organizational…