Herald Staff Report
(From the issue of 1/20/05)

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.

The open houses will be held at on Monday, Jan. 31, at St. Thomas More Cathedral School, 105 N. Thomas St., Arlington, from 7 to 9 p.m.; Tuesday, Feb. 1, at St. Francis of Assisi School, 18825 Fuller Heights Rd., Triangle, from 10 a.m. to noon; Thursday, Feb. 3, at All Saints School (Music Room), 9294 Stonewall Rd., Manassas, from 10 a.m. to noon.

During Catholic Schools Week, Sister Patricia Helene, I.H.M., Ph.D., formerly assistant superintendent of schools for the Diocese of Arlington 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 has 43 schools and provides educational opportunities for students from preschool through high school.

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 all teachers — from those who have previously taught, to those thinking about returning to teaching, as well as those who may be teaching in other school systems — to find out more about the diocesan schools. In addition, those who may be exploring options for a change in career are encouraged to come.

For more information call the Office of Catholic Schools at 703/841-2519.