Special to the HERALD
(From the issue of 1/22/04)

The Office of Catholic Schools is sponsoring a series of open house programs for prospective teachers to invite those who are interested in teaching to explore opportunities and requirements for teaching in the Catholic schools in the Diocese of Arlington. During Catholic Schools Week, Immaculate Heart of Mary Sister Patricia Helene Earl, formerly assistant superintendent of schools for the diocese and now director of the Catholic School Leadership Program at Marymount University, will address the growing need for teachers.

National statistics show a decline in the number of prospective teachers. With the growth in the diocese, good teachers and administrators committed to Christ and to sound moral principles, as well as academic excellence, are vital to the mission of the Catholic school. The Diocese of Arlington has 42 schools, and provides educational opportunities for students from preschool through grade 12.

These open house programs will allow parishioners to explore the benefits of teaching in a Catholic school, and to know more about the requirements for teaching. Many parents of students teach within the diocesan schools. This is a program for those who have previously taught to think about returning to teaching, as well as those who may be teaching in other school systems to find out more about diocesan schools. In addition, those who may be exploring options for a change in career are encouraged to come.

At the beginning of each session, Sister Earl will discuss the importance of Catholic schools, the atmosphere and education that they provide, the various programs that are offered to students as well as the requirements for teaching and obtaining teacher certification. In addition to Sister Earl’s presentation, there will be time for prospective teachers to tour the hosting schools and visit classrooms in order to see what Catholic schools offer to students, parents and teachers.

To facilitate the availability, several Catholic schools in the areas within the diocese will host this program, and one session is scheduled during evening hours. Sister Earl will be available to answer questions after each presentation. The open houses will be offered at the following locations, dates, and times:

— St. Rita School, 3801 Russell Rd., Alexandria, from 10 a.m. to noon. For information call 703/548-1888.

— St. Thomas More Cathedral School, 105 N. Thomas St., Arlington, from 7 to 9 p.m. For information call 703/528-1547.

— St. Francis of Assisi School, 18825 Fuller Heights Rd., Triangle, from 10 a.m. to noon. For information call 703/221-3868.

— All Saints School, 9294 Stonewall Rd., Manassas, from 9 to 11 a.m. For information call 703/368-4400.

The Office of Catholic Schools and the principals throughout the diocese are excited about the prospect for new teachers that these programs may bring. Many teachers hired for this school year attended last year’s open house programs for teachers during Catholic Schools’ Week. To teach within a Catholic School offers the privilege and responsibility of sharing the Catholic faith and values with young people, as well as contributing to their total development spiritually, intellectually, physically, emotionally and socially.