Outlines a model program for rewarding excellence, primarily in a Catholic elementary school that has discretionary funds for rewards and recognition, though it may be adapted for any school. Presents a monthly award system that utilizes Catholic culture and permeates the entire school year. Cites Disney program as a model. (NB)

Describes one educator's experiences with developing core K-8 curriculum standards that reflect the four pillars of the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the dimensions of the General Directory for Catechesis. Standards were applied in author's diocese. Also describes pilot year for program and offers some qualitative feedback. (NB)

Discusses the difficulty Catholic schools face in recruiting Directors of Religious Education (DRE). Suggests that there are not enough skilled DREs to go around. Encourages schools to find talented lay people and mentor and empower them so that they can grow into the position. Presents some model approaches to the recruitment process. (NB)

Describes the major issues tackled by the school board in a New Jersey Diocese. The key areas addressed were: revision and expansion of tuition assistance program, a move to president/principal model of administration for high schools, and overhaul of school policy manuals. Describes characteristics of an effective board. (NB)

Offers ideas for teaching young readers to appreciate books. Suggests creating activities, such as reading contests, book theater, book reviews with a twist, character essays, and game shows. Intended as a starting point to help inspire Catholic educators to come up with more ideas of their own. (NB)

Describes the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), George W. Bush's reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. Discusses ways in which the NCLB affects private religious schools, as well as offering suggestions for the ways in which Catholic schools should be addressing the changes in the law. (NB)

Argues that boys are both tribal and individual creatures, and if they are to avoid developing a fragmented self, both these aspects must be nurtured. Charges that contemporary educational institutions must accept responsibility for their share of the fragmenting of the male self. Offers suggestions for teaching discipline and faith to boys in the…

Details the history of the Catholic Church's involvement in social justice issues from the Second Vatican Council (1962-65) on. Describes social justice programs in schools in the diocese of Albany, New York, as well as other programs. Stresses that social justice activity rises out gratitude for the gift of life and should be seen in the context…

Discusses ways in which an inner city Catholic school in Albany, New York, whose students are 97% non-Catholic, continues its mission. The school incorporates other religions into its religious instruction, and offers student-led para-liturgical services in various faith traditions. Argues that in urban Catholic schools, ecumenism is necessary.…

Describes a program called Faith, Finances, and You, which aims to help parishioners of St. Albert the Great in Ohio become better stewards in their personal and financial lives. Program involves a series of workshops that were adjusted according to participant feedback. The parish plans to expand the program to schools. (NB)