In this episode, John Mihalyo discusses effective strategies for Catholic school leaders to analyze and improve their advancement, development, and fundraising efforts. Drawing from his experience and expertise, John highlights common pitfalls in setting goals that are either too high or too low and emphasizes the importance of realistic planning, communication, sponsorship, budgeting, and offering desirable items or experiences at fundraising events. He also stresses the significance of timing, venue selection, and the power of saying 'thank you' to sponsors and donors. Throughout the episode, John offers practical advice on creating a culture of giving and forging strong community partnerships to support Catholic education worldwide.00:00 Introduction to the Catholic School Leaders Podcast00:34 Reflecting on the School Year and Advancement Efforts01:06 Analyzing Fundraising Efforts and Identifying Improvement Areas02:19 Common Reasons for Not Meeting Fundraising Goals05:01 The Importance of Proper Event Planning and Timing07:16 Maximizing Communication and Sponsorship Opportunities16:49 Ensuring Your Fundraising Offers What People Want20:29 Choosing the Right Venue and Recognizing Sponsors24:43 Avoiding Donor Fatigue with Strategic Fundraising27:18 Budgeting and Event Feedback for Future Success31:05 Conclusion and Invitation to Connect

In this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, John Mihalyo talks with Dr. Jacob Imam, Founder and Vice President of Finance at the College of St. Joseph the Worker College in Steubenville, Ohio. Dr. Imam discusses his unique background, transitioning from a Muslim home to Catholicism, and his journey through education, culminating in his role at the college. He delves into the college’s innovative approach to higher education, which integrates rigorous academics with hands-on trade skills, aiming to foster well-rounded, financially savvy, and morally grounded graduates. The podcast explores the six-year educational model that combines a Bachelor's degree with a journeyman’s card, emphasizing the value of trades, the importance of leadership, and the college’s mission to provide an education that is both enriching and practical. Dr. Imam highlights future plans for the college, including the development of new trade tracks and a local construction company, to further enhance student learning and community service.00:07 Meet Dr. Jacob Imam: From Muslim to Catholic Convert01:27 The Genesis of College of St. Joseph the Worker02:44 A Unique Educational Model: Merging Theology with Trades03:43 The Financial and Practical Benefits of the College's Program10:38 Exploring the Academic Curriculum Beyond Trades27:39 Leadership and Catholic Values in Trades and Education37:03 Future Plans and Closing Thoughts

This episode features an enriching conversation with Fr. Tim Anastos, a chaplain at St. John Paul II Newman Center at the University of Illinois, Chicago. The discussion delves into innovative methods of engaging students in their faith, the importance of Catholic education, and how Catholic school leaders can inspire both students and educators to grow in their relationship with Christ. Father Tim shares his journey to developing a deeper relationship with Jesus and emphasizes the role of authenticity and consistency in nurturing faith among the youth. The episode also explores the impact of social media in evangelization, the significance of the Eucharist in Catholic faith, and strategies for Catholic school leaders to foster a vibrant, faith-filled community in their schools. Father Tim's insights into making the faith alive and relevant, alongside his own initiatives like Real Homilies and his book 'Jesus, Make Me Fully Alive,' offer practical advice and inspiration for Catholic school leaders aiming to rekindle faith and identity within their institutions.00:31 Spotlight on Father Tim: Chaplain at St. John Paul II Newman Center02:48 Father Tim's Journey of Faith and Relationship with Jesus06:18 Developing a Relationship with Christ in Busy Lives11:36 Engaging the Youth: Reel Homilies and Social Media Evangelization18:39 The Power of Prayer and Identity in Christ for the Youth34:16 Empowering Catholic School Leaders and Teachers37:01 Father Tim's Book: A Guide to Spiritual Growth41:11 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

This episode features an insightful conversation between host John Mihalyo and guest Barbara Flowers, a seasoned principal and certified life coach with a doctorate in K-12 leadership. The discussion centers on the concept of leadership efficacy, particularly within the context of Catholic school administration. Barb shares her extensive experiences and the importance of self-efficacy among educational leaders, emphasizing the drastic changes in the roles and challenges faced by principals in recent years. Key topics include:The impact of principal efficacy on career performanceStrategies for overcoming self-doubtThe significance of prioritizing well-being and setting boundariesThe value of continuous professional development. Managing burnoutDelegating effectively, and Fostering a growth mindset among staffThe importance of reflectionPlanning for improvement00:18 Introducing Barb Flowers: A Principal with a Mission01:18 Exploring Leadership Efficacy in Catholic Education02:12 The Evolving Role of Principals Post-COVID04:26 Building Self-Efficacy and Delegating Effectively08:50 The Importance of Professional Development for Principals16:24 Addressing Principal and Teacher Burnout29:18 Reflecting and Planning for a Strong School Year Finish

In this episode, John Mihalyo interviews Greg Morrissey, founder of the Mountain Goat Movement and a dedicated educator who intertwines his Catholic faith with outdoor adventures. Morrissey, who has spearheaded numerous expeditions for students in environments ranging from urban landscapes to international treks, emphasizes the role of adventures in character building and faith development. He reflects on how his own experiences in nature solidified his connection to God and inspired him to integrate outdoor experiences into Catholic education. He discusses the significance of these adventures for students, highlighting the transformative impact on their confidence, empathy, and spiritual growth. Morrissey's innovative approach not only enriches students' educational journeys but also aims to cultivate the next generation of empathetic community leaders through meaningful engagement with nature and exploration.00:17 Introducing Greg Morrissey01:49 Catholic Education and Outdoor Adventures03:53 Creating Transformative Experiences for Students10:51 The Impact of Adventure on Personal Growth14:26 Overcoming Challenges and Building Confidence17:58 Making Adventure Accessible to All27:28 Future Plans and Expanding the Mountain Goat Movement31:04 How to Connect and Collaborate with Mountain Goat Movement

In this episode our guest Tim Breslin, Senior Development Director at Duke University, who shares his extensive experience in school advancement and fundraising. The discussion covers the importance of advancement for schools at various stages - contemplating, starting, and improving their efforts. Tim offers advice on getting started with advancement, including the significance of leadership and the need to invest time and resources. He emphasizes the importance of asking for donations, utilizing community resources, and respecting the culture of giving within the school community. Strategies for thanking donors creatively and the role of leadership in supporting advancement efforts are also shared. Tim encourages schools to focus on fundamentals, utilize indicators of potential donors within their community, and leverage opportunities like matching gifts to maximize their fundraising potential.00:23 Introducing Tim Breslin: A Journey Through Advancement01:48 The Three Stages of School Advancement02:33 Starting Your School's Advancement Journey: Tips and Strategies05:32 Building a Culture of Giving: Engaging Teachers and Parents09:16 Transforming Parent Organizations: From Fundraisers to Friend-Raisers22:36 Maximizing Success in School Advancement: Strategies and Insights28:49 Navigating Challenges and Rebuilding Credibility in Advancement Efforts35:47 Fundamental Strategies for Elevating Your School's Advancement Efforts39:01 Closing Thoughts and the Importance of Community Engagement

This episode features Dr. Julie Delaney, the principal of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School, focusing on the integral relationship between Catholic school principals and pastors for successful school environments. John and Dr. Delaney discuss her extensive experience in Catholic education, the importance of regular meetings and trust-building between principals and pastors, and the role of prayer in fostering these relationships. She also shares strategies for engaging pastors without micromanagement, the significance of principals being visible parish leaders, and the mutual benefits of a cohesive parish-school community are explored. The conversation also covers practical advice on promoting school participation, handling financial aspects and tuition assistance, and effectively communicating the school's value to the parish community to support enrollment growth.00:18 Spotlight on Dr. Julie Delaney's Journey in Catholic Education01:45 The Essential Partnership: Principal and Pastor03:08 Strategies for Fostering a Strong Principal-Pastor Relationship06:16 The Principal's Role Beyond the School: Engaging with the Parish Community19:33 Navigating Multiple Parish Contributions to a Single School26:15 Building Successful Partnerships Across Parish Ministries33:41 Strengthening Parish-School Partnerships33:55 Mission Statements: Reflecting Parish Values in Schools34:52 Navigating Parishioner Perceptions and School Promotion35:33 Building a Unified Community: Parish and School Integration39:26 Financial Dynamics: Balancing Parish and School Needs41:21 Communication and Visibility: Key to Parish-School Synergy46:44 Fostering Relationships and Understanding Between Parish and School55:45 Supporting Enrollment Growth and Tuition Assistance01:01:27 Concluding Thoughts on Parish-School Collaboration

In this episode, John talks with Laura Tierney, the founder and CEO of the Social Institute. They delve into how the Social Institute has emerged as a pioneering force in educating over 50,000 students through a gamified social media curriculum, aiming to navigate the complexities of social media and technology with positivity and integrity. Laura's achievements, including recognition by Melinda Gates and being a finalist in the EdTech Leadership Award, underscore the importance of her work. The discussion also outlines the mindset and strategies needed for schools, parents, and students to tackle social media's challenges head-on rather than shying away. They stress the value of modeling positive behavior, fostering trust through open communication, establishing clear standards, and taking a proactive, rather than reactive, approach to social media education. The conversation underscores that successful navigation of social media involves understanding its implications, setting boundaries, and promoting a culture of positivity and respect both online and offline.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest Laura Tierney00:18 Laura Tierney's Achievements and the Social Institute's Impact02:42 The Positive Approach to Social Media Education04:20 Empowering Students and Adults in Navigating Social Media05:15 Strategies for Schools to Integrate Social Media Education07:11 Addressing Social Media Challenges in Schools and Families15:41 Advice for Parents and Schools on Managing Social Media24:38 Success Stories and the Importance of Positive Social Media Use27:50 Parting Thoughts and How to Connect with The Social Institute

In this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, host John Mihalyo interviews Anne-Marie Maw, a seasoned educator with 25 years of experience, currently serving as the principal of St. Agatha's Primary School in Brisbane. She shares her passion for involving students in community service, fostering their generosity, and encouraging social entrepreneurship among young learners. She discusses successful initiatives undertaken by her students, such as crafting and selling jewelry for breast cancer awareness, and emphasizes the importance of active involvement rather than mere financial contributions. Anne Marie also details her unique approach to nurturing student leadership and entrepreneurial spirit by requiring students to pitch their ideas in a 'Shark Tank'-like format, thereby ensuring commitment and preparation. The conversation delves into the broader implications of these practices on students' mental health and societal contributions, underscoring the motto 'Deeds Not Words' and highlighting the significance of practical action over mere discussion in education and beyond.00:08 Meet the Guest: Anne-Marie Maw01:06 Anne-Marie's Passion for Student Empowerment01:22 Anne-Marie's Community Involvement and Faith in Action02:40 The Concept of Social Entrepreneurship in Schools03:18 Real-life Examples of Social Entrepreneurship at St. Agatha's04:55 The Importance of Planning and Preparation in Student Initiatives05:14 The 'Shark Tank' Approach to Student Ideas07:03 The Impact of Student-led Initiatives08:54 The Role of Teachers in Student-led Initiatives10:03 The Importance of Action in Service Projects13:41 Integrating the School's Motto into its Culture15:29 Creating Opportunities for Student Leadership23:50 The Future of St. Agatha's and its Students26:29 Conclusion: The Link Between Service and Mental Health

Episode description not available.

This episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast features three friends from Australia discussing their innovative approach to teaching at Trinity College. Principal Allison Elcoate, and educators Michael Blundell and Michael Parker, discuss their shift from traditional teaching to a unique, student-led learning approach. They reveal the improvements seen within the school, particularly in student engagement and academic results. The paradigm shift allowing for adaptive and dynamic teaching strategies encourages students to work on different things at different times. This injects joy back into the profession has resulted in more engaged students, more effective learning processes and improved results. These guest educators encourage listeners to embrace change, adapt to the future needs of education and to not be afraid of trying new approaches in their own classrooms.02:26 Understanding the Australian Education System03:29 Identifying the Problem: Teacher Burnout and Student Engagement04:45 The Innovative Approach: Shifting the Cognitive Load05:52 The Impact of the New Approach on Teachers08:25 The Student Perspective: Embracing the New Learning Model10:00 The Role of Teachers in the New Learning Model14:17 The Impact on School Culture and Collaboration18:51 The Future of the Innovative Approach37:47 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Other Educators

During this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, marketing expert Kirby Hasseman was welcomed to discuss marketing strategies specifically catered for educational institutions. Drawing from his successful marketing career and role as CEO of Hasseman Marketing and Communications, Kirby deconstructed the concepts of marketing, advertising, messaging and branding, and how they intertwine. He also discussed the power of storytelling in marketing, the importance of engaging audiences in a memorable and meaningful way as well as strategic utilization of social media for optimal audience engagement. Specifically, Facebook groups were highlighted due to their higher audience engagement rates. How to manage negative online reviews and the role of branded merch were discussed as well. The show provided tips on boosting profitable media projects, time management for promotional projects and insightful strategies for fundraising campaigns using branded merchandise.01:39 Understanding Marketing, Advertising, Messaging, and Branding05:00 The Power of Repetition in Marketing05:32 The Role of Employees in Branding06:53 Creative Ways to Engage Audience07:34 Leveraging Social Media for Marketing08:37 The Importance of Positive Content and Audience Engagement13:52 Utilizing Facebook Groups for Increased Engagement18:16 Leveraging Facebook for School Marketing18:56 Strategies for Boosting Facebook Posts21:32 Handling Negative Press on Social Media27:35 Effective Use of Branded Merchandise for Fundraising28:08 Choosing the Right Swag for Your School32:28 The Importance of Good Design and Planning in Merchandising

In this podcast episode of the Catholic School Leaders, the guest is Rebecca Maesta Sanchez, a devoted Catholic school leader. She passionately discusses her leadership journey, her educational philosophy, and her unique approach to leading one of Albuquerque's most historical institutions, St. Mary's Catholic School. With a firm belief that Jesus should be at the center of education, Sanchez emphasizes the importance of creating a conducive learning environment where virtuous behavior is taught alongside academic skills. Moreover, she highlights the importance of cultivating strong teacher-student relationships, promoting teacher development, employing a collaborative approach in decision-making, and encouraging the personal development of staff members. Imparting a growth-oriented culture within the school, Sanchez underscores that she always encourages her staff to step out of their comfort zones, believing that it is in these moments that true growth happens. 00:10 Introduction to the Guest: Rebecca Maesta Sanchez01:21 Rebecca's Journey in Catholic Education01:38 The Impact of Catholic Education02:37 Creating a Great Workplace in Schools03:50 The Importance of Collaborative Leadership04:17 Building Relationships with Staff06:55 Balancing Faculty Needs and School Goals08:41 The Role of Culture and Perks in Schools20:55 The Importance of Self-Care for School Leaders22:56 Developing Teachers and Encouraging Flexibility26:32 Creating a Positive School Culture

In this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, host John Mihalyo interviews Darrell Fulford, Principal of Saint Thomas More in Chapel Hill. They discuss the importance of forging a strong Catholic identity within the school culture.Darrell shares his personal journey from discovering the Catholic faith as a child to becoming an education leader driven by Catholic principles. He explains the influence of Catholic education in his life and emphasizes the importance of involving the parish community in school affairs. Darrell advocates for a collaborative approach to leadership, engaging faculty, staff, and parents to foster a conducive Catholic school environment.02:00 Darrell's Journey to Catholicism and Catholic Education05:09 The Importance of Catholic Culture in Schools07:50 Nurturing Faculty in Their Faith10:29 Promoting Partnership Between School and Parish Community13:08 Challenges Faced by Catholic School Principals

In this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, host John Mihalyo welcomes Jason Curtis, the president of St. Francis High School in Santa Clara, California. Jason discusses his journey in Catholic education, from being a teacher and principal to holding the presidency of a high school. He shares his insights on cultivating student-centered practices and vision-driven approach in schools. Further, he highlights the importance of maintaining Catholic identity in all aspects of schools, from extracurriculars to athletics. Jason also talks about the need for thoughtful flexibility and intentionality in systems to effectively support student development and community involvement.01:12 Jason Curtis's Journey in Catholic Education02:38 The Role of Opportunities in Student Development04:19 The Importance of Student-Centered Education06:16 Creating a Vision and Empowering Students09:56 Engaging Parents as Partners in Education14:34 Building a Strong Connection with Students18:51 Cultivating a Student-Centered Culture29:27 Maintaining Catholic Identity in Schools33:12 Leaving a Legacy in Catholic Education

In this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, host John Mihalyo interviews Dr. Dana Coyle, a renowned educational expert with over 30 years of experience. Coyle discusses the importance and benefits of inclusivity in Catholic schools for students with learning differences. She shares her own experiences while elaborating various key steps in the process such as conducting comprehensive assessments, implementing professional development for teachers, constructing inclusive school environments, establishing support teams and fostering parent involvement. Coyle emphasizes that while introducing an inclusive system may require budgetary considerations, the positive impact it would have on all students and the cohesion it can bring to the Catholic school community makes it a fruitful endeavor.02:10 Dr. Coyle's Journey in Education03:01 The Need for Inclusion in Catholic Schools05:23 Addressing Misconceptions about Inclusive Education09:38 Steps to Implement Inclusive Education17:28 Addressing Resource Allocation for Inclusive Education20:36 The Process for Identifying Learning Differences

In this episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, host John Mihalyo discusses the topic of school choice with guest Brian Jodice, the Executive Vice President for Parents for Educational Freedom in North Carolina. They delve into various school choice programs such as vouchers, tax credits, and education savings accounts, and how they can be beneficial for parents and schools. They also address misconceptions and fears around these programs and provide practical advice for school administrators who might want to leverage these programs. Brian shares about the Opportunity Scholarship Program in North Carolina, how to navigate it, and how other states can implement similar programs.02:16 Brian's Personal Journey and Passion for School Choice07:12 Understanding School Choice Programs09:57 Misconceptions about School Vouchers13:05 How Schools Can Engage with School Choice Programs21:44 The Future of School Choice25:52 Steps for School Administrators to Take

Welcome to the Catholic School Leaders Podcast. This is John Mihalyo, the host. As Catholic school leaders, we should never walk alone in our journey to lead our schools.This vocation that we have is critical to the success of our schools, not only now, but in the future. So the purpose of this podcast is to create an opportunity for us to learn from each other, to collaborate with each other, and to grow Catholic education for the future.This podcast will keep our Catholic faith at the center of everything that we do, discussing timely issues for school leaders, as well as give you ways to improve your fundraising. Increase your enrollment and improve the overall operations at your school.At Elementary Advancement Solutions, our goal is to work with and connect Catholic school leaders from all across the country to improve their schools.I've served as a Catholic school principal for the past 15 years, worked at three different schools, including elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools as a school principal. I've overseen the creation of two advancement offices, and the schools that I've worked at have raised over $1.8 million in fundraising through special events, grants, annual funds, and other programs using the methods I teach my schools. In addition, I led a $6 million renovation to a Catholic high school, and the schools I've led have seen an increase in enrollment of 21%. We work with principals and school leaders on a variety of methods, including advancement support, which helps you with your fundraising, enrollment, and strategic planning.Our mastermind groups provide school leaders from all across the country with the opportunity to meet with like-minded school leaders to discuss real world Catholic school problems that are specific to them.For more information about the work that we do here at Elementary Advancement Solutions visit www.elementaryadvancement.com. Our podcast each week will bring. Real world principals and school leaders in a variety of different positions together to discuss issues that are relevant and timely to Catholic schools everywhere.On the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, we're gonna keep our Catholic culture at the center of everything that we discuss for Catholic schools, as well as dive into issues of leadership, community engagement, operational vitality, workforce engagement, and individual student growth. Be sure to subscribe to this podcast wherever you listen to podcasts so that you can be informed whenever new episodes come out each week.