Letter from the Principal

Dear Friends,

Due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in mid-March followed later by widespread social unrest, the spring semester 2020 was extraordinarily challenging on numerous levels. Fortunately, Cathedral High School made the transition years ago to teach our students using iPad tablets as a learning device so the fast transition to full-time distance learning at home was manageable and instruction remained meaningful. With dedicated teachers, counselors, and administrators we were in daily contact with students and parents, requiring daily attendance and participation in all classes, and had 98% of all students fulfilling their responsibilities online so they received letter grades to successfully complete the year.

Our plan for the 2020-2021 academic year is just as forward looking in order to balance the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff. Until COVID-19 infections are under control we plan to provide a Hybrid Program with students coming on campus at least twice a week for in person instruction with their teachers, while also continuing to provide online instruction that students can complete at home using their iPad or computer.

While electronic devices and Wi-Fi allow for instruction to continue, nothing can replace the personal relationships which is key to motivating students, building faith, fostering friendships and promoting lasting memories. For this reason we have built into our 2020-2021 academic schedule “Phantom Wednesdays” where individual students can safely meet teachers, coaches, and counselors while also engaging in Christian service and social activities with their classmates and friends to foster Phantom Pride and Brotherhood.

The financial reality facing private Catholic schools, particularly schools like Cathedral which serve many working class families, will face even more challenges in the years ahead. Fortunately, Cathedral is investing in the future and making strategic decision to sustain our school to better help our families. Due to grants and fundraising efforts this summer we are installing nearly $1 million in solar panels and storage batteries to lower our ongoing electrical costs. All savings in electrical bills benefits our bottom line as we pursue every means possible to remain financially sustainable for the long term.

Today, more than ever, we need schools like Cathedral where Christian values, integrity, compassion and respect for others is an integral a part of our program. Any financial contribution you can make to assist us in our Lasallian Catholic educational mission is sure to bear compound interest in the lives of the young men we serve and further these essential aims for the betterment of our society.

God’s blessings to you,

BROTHER JOHN MONTGOMERY, FSC, PRINCIPAL