2023-2024 Impact Report - Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Austin

IMPACT REPORT 2023 · 2024

Table of Contents New Brand for Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Austin . . . . . . . . 2 Letters of Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Our Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Our Schools - By the Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Our Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Our Graduates, Class of 2024 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Our Faculty + Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Accessibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Catholic Identity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Academics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Good News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Catholic Charities Champions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Financials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 2024 Saints & Scholars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 CSA Scholarship Contest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Time, Talent and Treasure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Grateful for Your Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Diocesan School Advisory Board (DSAB) The DSAB advises and makes recommendations for the promotion of Catholic education to the Bishop of Austin, and Superintendent of Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Austin.

Office of Catholic Schools’ Staff Misty Poe, Superintendent Kelly Laster, Assistant Superintendent Juliana Rueda, Associate Director of Marketing and Events Jill Holmaas, Coordinator

DSAB Members 2023-2024 Dr. Becky Fliss - Chair Fr. Basil Aguzie Dr. Alyssan Barnes Tara Cevallos Ned Ewart Dr. Montserrat Fuentes Kelly Hyten Fr. John Kim Sr. Maria Miguel Wright, O.P.

Ex-Officio Members from the Diocese of Austin Most Rev. Joe S. Vásquez Very Rev. James Misko Mary Beth Koenig Kelly Laster Misty Poe Juliana Rueda Alison Tate Dcn. Ron Walker

New Brand for Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Austin This past year, Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Austin launched a systemwide brand identity to represent the 19 Catholic schools across Central Texas.

Visual Elements: Arched Doors: Inspired by our slogan, “Forming Children in Wisdom and Holiness,” the arches serve as a gateway through which students, teachers, parents, and community members enter a space dedicated to both intellectual and spiritual growth.

Central Cross: Positioned prominently between the arches, the cross represents Christ as the focal point of our educational mission. It signifies that Christ is not only central to our curriculum but also to the lived experience of everyone involved.

The logo serves as a visual reminder that every aspect of our school experience -academic, spiritual, and communal - is deeply rooted in our Catholic faith and values. This emblem is not just a visual identity but a representation of the holistic and faith-centered approach that defines Catholic schools in the Diocese of Austin.

In addition, a new website was launched under the same domain, csdatx.org.

The updated site includes resources for current and prospective families, streamlined navigation, and dynamic multimedia content. The site prioritizes user-friendly features to make the user’s visit enjoyable and informative.

2023-2024 Theme: Follow Me as I Follow Christ Good and gracious God, we give you thanks for the gift of our Catholic schools and ask your continued grace on the sacred work of forming young people in wisdom and holiness.

and encounter with different cultures, in their art pieces and music performances, through their athletic competition and participation in clubs and organizations, reveal to them your presence at every stage of their journey.

Infuse our students with a deep desire to learn so that they will recognize your presence in all things. As they study math and science, in their writing of essays and poems, through their reading of history

Grant joy and fulfillment to our teachers, administrators, staff members, priests, parents, parishioners and all who accompany our students in encountering you in the academic enterprise.

Lord, watch over Catholic schools, that they may be safe from harm and free of hatred, invoking the intercession of St. Thomas Aquinas, patron of students, so that our young people will hear Christ’s call to “follow me”. Amen.

Prayer by Very Reverend James Misko, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia - Diocese of Austin.

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Dear Friends in Christ, In the Diocese of Austin our Catholic schools continue to thrive as beacons of faith, academic excellence, and community. As you read this report, I hope you share my pride for all that has been accomplished this past year and for the successes of our schools and students.

God is doing great things in and through our Catholic schools!

Your unwavering support of Catholic education through enrolling your children, offering prayers, or providing financial contributions is a great blessing. Each act of support is vital to our mission to educate and nurture the minds and hearts of the young disciples entrusted to our care.

Asking God’s continued blessings upon our Catholic schools, I am

Most Reverend Joe S. Vásquez Bishop of Austin

OUR MISSION Forming Children in Wisdom and Holiness Catholic schools offer the fullest and best opportunity to realize the four-fold purpose of Christian education, namely to provide an atmosphere where the Gospel message is proclaimed, community in Christ is experienced, service to our sisters and brothers is the norm, and thanksgiving and worship of God are cultivated.

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Dear Catholic Schools Community, As we reflect on another remarkable year of growth and achievement in our Catholic schools, it is with gratitude and joy that we present this impact report.

Your steadfast support and commitment to the mission of Catholic education has been a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for our entire community.

Our Catholic education pillars, faith, academics, and service, serve as the foundation upon which we build the future for our young saints and scholars. This report not only highlights the milestones we have reached, but also invites you to reflect on how these pillars have come to life in our Catholic schools this past year. The mission of Catholic education continues to thrive and flourish because of the collective effort of everyone involved, our devoted teachers and staff, supportive families, and generous donors. Each contribution, both large and small, plays a vital role in advancing our mission and ensuring that our schools remain places of evangelization and excellence.

Thank you for your continued dedication and for being an integral part of this journey. Together, with the blessing of God, we are building a brighter future for our students, our Church, and ultimately, for our world.

Misty Poe Superintendent

OUR VISION The Catholic Diocese of Austin believes in the power of Catholic education to transform the world into the image of God’s kingdom.

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OUR SCHOOLS 11

Elementary / Middle Schools 1. Cathedral School of Saint Mary, Austin 2. Holy Family Catholic School, Austin 3. Sacred Heart Catholic School, La Grange 4. Santa Cruz Catholic School, Buda 5. St. Austin Catholic School, Austin 6. St. Helen Catholic School, Georgetown 7. St. Ignatius Martyr Catholic School, Austin 8. St. Joseph Catholic Academy, Killeen 9. St. Louis Catholic School, Austin 10. St. Mary's Catholic School, Temple 11. St. Mary's Catholic School, West 12. St. Theresa Catholic School, Austin

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8

17 10

15

6 16

K-12 Schools 13. Bishop Louis Reicher Catholic School, Waco 14. St. Michael’s Catholic Preparatory School, Austin 15. St. Joseph Catholic School, Bryan 16. St. Mary's Catholic School, Taylor

2 19 12 14

9

5

7

18 1

4 3

High Schools 17. Holy Trinity Catholic High School, Temple 18. San Juan Diego Catholic High School, Austin 19. St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School, Austin

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By the Numbers

19

$7.6M+

Total Number of Schools

Amount schools distributed in tuition assistance

12 Elementary / Middle Schools 4 K-12 Schools 3 High Schools

14 Parish Schools 3 Diocesan Schools 2 Independent Schools

ACCREDITATION

During the 2023-2024 school year, five schools were visited by an accreditation team: St. Joseph Catholic School, Bryan; St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School, Austin; St. Joseph Catholic Academy, Killeen; Cathedral School of Saint Mary, Austin; Bishop Louis Reicher Catholic School, Waco.

Accreditation plays an important role in supporting and validating the mission and excellence of Catholic schools.

Catholic schools in the state of Texas are accredited through the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops Education Department (TCCB ED).

TCCB ED uses several guiding documents to create their standards including the National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools (NSBECS) and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) recommendations of Church doctrine related to elementary and secondary Catholic schools.

Amongst other areas, the Catholic Identity domain was specifically listed as a strength for all five schools.

The accreditation cycle is a seven-year process that culminates in a yearlong self-study for each school, followed by an accreditation visit that serves to acknowledge and support the strengths and areas of continuous improvement each school has identified in the self-study process.

In addition, three schools had the Student Services domain listed as a strength, particularly the area of meeting extracurricular needs of diverse students.

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By the Numbers

OUR STUDENTS

5,303

Total Number of Students Served

34%

of all students receive tuition assistance

2023-2024

465 students eligible for free/reduced lunch

Catholic 80.9%

2,874 Elementary School Students

Non-Catholic 19.1%

1,186 Middle school students

54.2% of total student body

22.4% of total student body

1,243 High school students 23.4% of total student body

Demographics by Ethnicity Hispanic 38% Non-Hispanic 62%

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Demographics by Race Caucasian 75% Unknown 12% Multiracial 4% Asian 5% African American 3% Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander <1% American Indian/Native Alaskan <1%

610 students with diagnosed disability

28

100%

students with international student visas

of students formed in wisdom and holiness

learning, physical, or mental

Catholic schools in the Diocese of Austin serve a diverse community of families from varying backgrounds, always with the mission of forming saints and scholars. Teachers mentor our students in order to guide them toward achieving their full potential. We serve students from PreK3 through 12th grade, and offer them a safe and loving environment so they can grow physically, intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. As one of the largest ministries of our diocese, schools partner with Bishop Vásquez and pastors to support parents and guardians in the formation of their children.

Enrollment by Grade 6th - 7.8% 7th - 7.1% 8th - 7.4% 9th - 6.1% 10th - 5.7% 11th - 5.8% 12th - 5.8%

5,413 5,241 5,069 4,897 4 02 -2 3 23 20 202 22 2 2 20 0 -2 21 1 20 202 20 20 20 0 -2 19 19 0 20 -2 18 8 1 20 0 -2 17 7 20 201 16 6 20 201 15 20

PreK3 - 2.7% PreK4 - 6.2% Kinder - 7.2% 1st - 7.3% 2nd - 7.9% 3rd - 7.8% 4th - 7.6% 5th - 7.6%

Enrollment Over Time in Our Schools

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By the Numbers

OUR GRADUATES CLASS OF 2024

308

100%

$35M

graduates in 2024

college acceptance rate

offered in scholarships to attend college and universities

Bishop Louis Reicher Catholic School, Waco Bishop Louis Reicher Catholic School’s senior class achieved, once again, a 100% college acceptance rate. With a solid grounding in faith and education, our seniors embarked on diverse paths, carrying with them the wisdom gained and the bonds forged during their shared journey.

Holy Trinity Catholic High School, Temple Holy Trinity Catholic High School’s Seniors were accepted to 30 colleges and universities including the University of Dallas and Notre Dame University and have received combined scholarship offerings of more than $1.8 million.

San Juan Diego Catholic High School, Austin This year’s senior class raised funds for Caritas of Austin and Championship Hearts Foundation and supported our Corporate Internship Partner, Dell Children’s Hospital, with a toy drive. Students garnered more than $2.9 million in scholarship offers.

St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School, Austin The total service hours for the 2024 senior class exceeded 7,583, for a combined economic value of $206,112. Eighty-five percent of the senior class took at least one Advanced Placement Exam and have a combined 462 AP Exams over the course of their four-year career and consistently performed above the national average.

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26

National Merit Scholars amongst the seven high schools

33,000+

Cumulative service hours completed

53

Seniors in the Class of 2024 who have been in Catholic School since PreK

St. Joseph Catholic School, Bryan This class earned acceptances to renowned institutions like Texas A&M University, Colorado School of Mines, and Benedictine College, reflecting their dedication to academic excellence and lifelong learning.

In athletics, Senior football players proudly led the Eagles to the State Semifinals, marking a historic season.

St. Mary’s Catholic School, Taylor St. Mary’s Class of 2024 was the founding students of the second opening of the high school, so they were the first students to have experienced all four years of the school’s Chesterton Academy network curriculum! Our seven seniors served thousands of hours in numerous leadership and service positions in the school, parish, and community.

St. Michael’s Catholic Preparatory School, Austin The class of 2024 completed more than 9,239 service hours in our community. During Winter Term, 34 of our 85 interns were seniors who explored their professional interests by working alongside journalists at Texas Monthly, a dentist, a surgeon, an engineering firm, and a Travis County Commissioner.

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By the Numbers

OUR FACULTY + STAFF

629

Faculty members Female 454 Lay Teachers Male 162 Lay Teachers

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Religious and Clergy

269

Staff members Time 523 Full Teachers Time 106 Part Teachers

71%

Catholic

29%

Non-Catholic

Teachers and staff are an essential component of the success of our Catholic schools, which is why the Office of Catholic Schools continues to provide opportunities for professional development for teachers and staff.

Support offered to our school leaders, faculty and staff by the Office of Catholic Schools: Hosting Catholic Schools New Employee Orientation and presenting sessions on topics such as the Spirituality of an Educator, Profile of the Diocese, and Teaching in a Catholic school.

Consulting and support for school leaders.

Actively recruiting school leaders, teacher and employees by hosting virtual job fairs.

Hosting quarterly meetings with religion coordinators, technology coordinators, advancement/admission directors, librarians, athletic directors, learning support and counselors.

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Catholic Schools: Forming Pathways to Vocations Every year the Office of Catholic Schools hosts an annual Convocation, where faculty and staff celebrating milestone anniversaries are recognized for their years of service in a Catholic school in the Diocese of Austin.

The focus of last year’s Convocation was two-fold: fostering a culture of vocations in our schools; and a Eucharistic revival amongst our faculty and staff.

After a beautiful morning liturgy celebrated by Father James Misko, Vicar General of the Diocese of Austin, our faculty and staff enjoyed a presentation by Rhonda Gruenewald, founder of Vocation Ministry. In her presentation, Rhonda invited faculty and staff to inspire, promote, and assist in the discernment of vocations to the priesthood, consecrated life, and sacramental marriage in the classroom. The day concluded with Eucharistic adoration, where our teachers and staff prayed intentionally for an increase of vocations in our diocese, as well as an opportunity to be more docile to the Holy Spirit’s promptings in leading our students in wisdom and holiness.

Years of Service Many Catholic school teachers in the Diocese have a long tenure in the schools, and they see Catholic schools as part of their personal ministry and mission. In 2023-2024, we celebrated 82 faculty and staff members milestone anniversaries, with the following individuals celebrating more than 30 years of service:

Mrs. Debbie Glomb 45 Years of Service Bishop Louis Reicher Catholic School, Waco

Mrs. Cathy Zingelmann 45 Years of Service Sacred Heart Catholic School, LaGrange

Mrs. Jackie Keller 30 Years of Service St. Joseph Catholic School, Bryan

Mrs. Heidi Pickerill 30 Years of Service St. Louis Catholic School, Austin

Sophia Institute for Teachers: The Catholic Faith and Science Thanks to a generous donor, the Religion Coordinators, Religion and Theology teachers, and campus ministers across our 19 schools are able to enjoy special workshop opportunities offered by Sophia Institute.

This partnership is valuable for our schools as not only does it offer solid catechetical content and teaching strategies, but also instructional materials that promote beauty, truth and goodness in the classroom.

Last year’s workshop took place on April 30 at St. John Vianney Parish in Round Rock, and was centered on the Catholic Faith and Science with Father Robert Spitzer. Twenty-five staff members from our Catholic schools attended this workshop.

Congratulations, Alanna Heyl, 2024 Texas Catholic Conference Bishops' High School Teacher of the Year!

Mrs. Alanna Heyl has taught theology at St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School in Austin for 12 years and has served as chair of the Theology Department for 11 years. She currently teaches Theology IV, in which students learn about world religions, Catholic spirituality and prayer; and the upper-level course, Christian Outreach, a seminar on Catholic social teaching in which they organize a variety of service projects. One of those projects is Imago Christi Day, a school-wide day of service where students, faculty, staff, and volunteers go into the community and serve together. Under her guidance and mentorship, campus ministry and other programs are student-led, providing opportunities for teens to identify their unique talents and gifts and explore how they can use those skills to serve others.

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Diocesan Faculty Institute

Grants for Teachers

Every other year, the Office of Catholic Schools offers a Diocesan Faculty Institute, as an opportunity for teachers and staff to attend a full day of professional development. The uniqueness of this event is that the breakout sessions available are offered by our wonderful teachers and staff wanting to share the engaging lessons, activities and programs that are effective in and out of the classroom. The 2023 Faculty Institute, held on October 9, offered 40 different breakout sessions from Socratic Seminars to Promotion of Vocations to Sports as a Ministry. The day concluded with breakout sessions per grade level, subject area or area of ministry, which allowed the teachers and staff to have space to share ideas and best practices with one other.

A special thanks to St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Holy Family Catholic School and St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School for their hospitality in hosting more than 600 teachers and staff on their campuses.

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2023-2024 GRANT RECIPIENTS

The Advancing Our Mission Grants are opportunities for all teachers and staff to apply for funding for a special project or program to enhance the student experience in and out of the classroom.

The Advancing Our Mission program is funded by the Advancing Our Mission Endowment created in the Catholic Foundation Diocese of Austin. 2023-2024 grants totaled $40,000. Learn more about the Advancing Our Mission grant at csdatx.org/aomgrants.

SCHOOL Bishop Louis Reicher Catholic School, Waco. . . . . . . . . . . .

Bishop Louis Reicher Catholic School, Waco. . . . . . . . . . . .

Bishop Louis Reicher Catholic School, Waco. . . . . . . . . . . .

Cathedral School of Saint Mary, Austin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Holy Family Catholic School, Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Holy Family Catholic School, Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Holy Trinity Catholic High School, Temple . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sacred Heart Catholic School, LaGrange. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sacred Heart Catholic School, LaGrange. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sacred Heart Catholic School, LaGrange. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sacred Heart Catholic School, LaGrange. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sacred Heart Catholic School, LaGrange. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

San Juan Diego Catholic High School, Austin. . . . . . . . . . .

San Juan Diego Catholic High School, Austin. . . . . . . . .

Santa Cruz Catholic School, Buda. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

St. Austin Catholic School, Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

St. Austin Catholic School, Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

St. Austin Catholic School, Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School, Austin . . . . . . . . .

St. Helen Catholic School, Georgetown. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

St. Ignatius Martyr Catholic School, Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . .

St. Ignatius Martyr Catholic School, Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . .

St. Joseph Catholic Academy, Killeen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

St. Joseph Catholic School, Bryan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

St. Louis Catholic School, Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

St. Mary’s Catholic School, Taylor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

St. Mary’s Catholic School, Temple . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

St. Mary’s Catholic School, West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

St. Mary’s Catholic School, West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... ....... .......

GRANT RECIPIENT NAME PROJECT NAME AWARDED Brian Atteberry . . . . . . . . . . . . Tech Logic Carts (TLC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 300 St. Zelie Marie Bosse. . . . . . . Cultivating a Love for the Liturgy . . . . . . . . . . $ 123.75 Ashley Ward. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reading Initiative/Reading Intervention . . . . $ 2,000 Teresa Manning. . . . . . . . . . . .Interactive White Board and Stand. . . . . . . . . $ 1,758.99 Verity Kahn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Library Classroom Interactive Learning. . . . . $ 1,500 Michelle Pish. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Orffin' Around!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,500 Robert Knoke. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sound Mixing Console . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,700 Laura Elliorr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Let's Glow! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 218.10 Chris Kosler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Incentive for students. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 735.33 Sabina Rotter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wobble Stools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 541.86 Janie Spies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Can You Hear Me Now?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 300 Tomalene Vaughn . . . . . . . . . Water vs. Soil. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 460.02 Shannon Baley. . . . . . . . . . . . . Who’s Afraid of Great Literature? . . . . . . . . . . $ 500 Christian Pellot-Valentin . . .Learning Hallways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,699 Maribel Robles. . . . . . . . . . . . . Bridging Excellence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,000 Tara Cevallos. . . . . . . . . . . . . . A Course in Self-Regulation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 780 Linda Halm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21st Century Science Labs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,000 Barbara Kennedy . . . . . . . . . . A Stitch in Time Saves Nine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 1,000 Joyce Mink . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Theatre Portable Partitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,500 Sara Beyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cutting Edge Note-taking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,000 Ken Banbrick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Raptor Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,000 Diana Galvan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Admissions Information Management . . . . . . $ 520 Susan Pope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ART . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,000 Lauren Elias . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Empowering P.E. with Floor Scooters . . . . . . . $ 2,245.04 Emily Loontjer . . . . . . . . . . . . . Elementary Writing Curriculum. . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,765.59 Ana Karen Guzman . . . . . . . . Rams Restore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,000 Angelika Stolp. . . . . . . . . . . . . Outdoor Sensory Learning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,000 Amber Kubacak. . . . . . . . . . . . Theatre Curtains. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,383.48 Kathie Leppard . . . . . . . . . . . . Donor Database Management Software . . . $ 486 14

ACCESSIBILITY In an effort to continue fostering opportunities for more families to explore Catholic education by making it more accessible, Catholic schools in the Diocese of Austin partnered with ACE Scholarships, Folds of Honor, Our Kids at Heart Foundation, and the Catholic Foundation Diocese of Austin.

In addition, Pastors and parish communities in the Diocese of Austin are also valuable partners in making Catholic education more accessible to more families in Central Texas.

Catholic school donors are generous individuals and organizations that believe in the transformative power of Catholic education and choose to support it.

Beacon of Hope Scholarship Program The Catholic Schools Diocese of Austin launched an ambitious new initiative last academic year, the Beacon of Hope Scholarship, a program designed to help students access quality Catholic education. Funded through the generosity of donors to the Encountering Christ Campaign, Beacon of Hope is now an endowment fund in the Catholic Foundation - Diocese of Austin, which will support partial tuition scholarships for students for many years to come.

The Beacon of Hope Scholarship Program awarded $200,000 for the 2024-2025 school year to 285 deserving students. These scholarships ranged from $100 to $1,000, providing much-needed financial assistance to families who may otherwise struggle to afford tuition. Despite the significant amount disbursed, the $200,000 awarded represents only 9.3% of the total amount requested. This highlights the considerable demand for financial aid and underscores the importance of continuing to expand funding.

The Beacon of Hope Scholarship Program is an integral part of the Diocese of Austin’s commitment to making Catholic education accessible to all. By providing financial assistance, the program helps to ensure that students from diverse economic backgrounds can benefit from the values and high-quality education offered by Catholic schools. Superintendent, Misty Poe, sums up the Office of Catholic School’s appreciation for tuition support, “We are grateful to the Catholic community and their generosity to make the Beacon of Hope Scholarship fund a reality. The gift of this program will open doors to a Catholic education for all students that nurtures their intellectual, moral, and BEACON OF HOPE spiritual development.”

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS DIOCESE OF AUSTIN

SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

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ACE Scholarships ACE Scholarships support new families who meet specific income guidelines. Once the student qualifies for a scholarship, the funds can be renewed each year up to 12th grade. In 20232024, ACE awarded 126 scholarships for a total of $354,250 to students in Catholic schools in the Diocese of Austin.

Our Kids at Heart Our Kids at Heart Foundation (OKAH) provided $526,653 in tuition support to 250 economically disadvantaged students from parishes in Central Texas in 2023-2024. OKAH intentionally partners with parishes and families in Austin, Taylor, Bryan, Georgetown and Temple.

Folds of Honor Folds of Honor provides scholarships for dependents and/or spouses of fallen or disabled U.S. service members OR first responders.

In 2023-2024, Folds of Honor awarded $138,000 to 25 students in our Catholic schools.

Catholic Foundation - Diocese of Austin The Catholic Foundation - Diocese of Austin houses many endowments for Catholic schools, which in turn provide financial support for our students. In 2023-2024 academic year, the foundation distributed $134,835 to schools for tuition assistance.

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CATHOLIC IDENTITY By the Numbers

906 Weekly Masses celebrated with students

100% of our schools where faith formation is central and integral to the curriculum

73% of our 8th grade graduates continued their education at a Catholic high school

One Goal to form children in wisdom and holiness

National Eucharistic Revival The National Eucharistic Revival movement is the joyful, expectant, grassroots response of the Church in the United States to the divine invitation to be united once again around the source and summit of our faith in the celebration of the Eucharist. Through the Eucharist, God desires to heal, renew, and unify the Church and the world. In a special way, Catholic schools facilitate daily encounters with Jesus Christ through the celebration of the sacraments, adoration, and other special prayer services.

Through these opportunities, students are encouraged and supported as they deepen their own personal relationship with the Lord.

Eucharistic Miracle Exhibit Catholic schools in the Diocese of Austin were proud to be one of the sponsors of the Eucharistic Miracle Exhibit, which welcomed more than 3,000 attendees from our Catholic schools and parishes. The interactive exhibit allowed elementary, middle, and high schoolers to learn more about different Eucharistic miracle stories in light of the three-year Eucharistic Revival.

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During the year, schools and parishes provided an abundance of special events focused on the Eucharist including: Eucharistic processions Guided Adoration Retreats Eucharistic Miracles exhibits Consecration prayers

With the support of the Office of Catholic Schools, each school ensures that school life and learning are focused on the foundation of Catholic education:

Teaching Living Gospel values, preserving and passing on the traditions, beliefs and culture of the Catholic faith.

Middle School Eucharistic Rally Last year, eleven of our Catholic middle schools (more than 600 teens) came together for a day of fellowship, encounter, and spiritual renewal at the Middle School Eucharistic Rally. The day consisted of two talks given by Life Teen missionaries, fellowship, Mass with Bishop Vásquez, and culminated with adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

During this time of adoration, students were invited to leave their pews and pray at the foot of the altar if they felt called to do so, and it was a beautiful sight to see 150 teens surround the Blessed Sacrament, praying with all their hearts.

Assessment of Religious Knowledge (A R K) The Diocese of Austin used the Assessment of Religious Knowledge (ARK) for the first time in the spring of 2024. This assessment is used with students in second through 12th grades and with Catholic school faculty and staff as well. Students in the Diocese of Austin scored above the national average for Catholic schools with specific strengths identified in the Sacraments & Liturgy and Beliefs & Behaviors categories. Our faculty and staff scored in the top 15% nationwide in the Beliefs & Behaviors category, with our campus principals scoring in the top 2% nationwide.

Worship Regularly celebrated liturgy, prayer and prayer services in the Catholic tradition.

Community The total life of the school reflects the commitment to the faith development of each person, and a genuine respect for every individual.

Service Opportunities for faith-in-action are provided that are consistent with Catholic social teaching and serve as a witness of faith.

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ACADEMICS Effective Catholic schools exhibit a clear mission, a strong Catholic identity, a safe and orderly learning environment, and academic excellence. The hallmark of a Catholic school education has been challenging programs offered in an atmosphere that models Gospel values and supports and enhances the development of the whole child.

NWEA MAP Assessment All Catholic schools in the Diocese of Austin use the NWEA MAP Assessments in 1st through 8th grades. These adaptive assessments allow teachers and administrators to monitor student achievement and growth in the areas of Reading, Language Usage, Mathematics, and Science three times a year.

Information about individual student growth, campus grade level growth, and diocesan-wide student growth informs instruction that can target both student weaknesses and enrichment for areas of strength. The Diocese of Austin’s average math achievement scores for students in 1st through 8th grades were in the 64th percentile at the end of the 2023-2024 school year, which means the overall average achievement was better than 65 percent of all public and private schools using the NWEA Assessments across the nation. The Diocese of Austin’s average reading achievement scores for students in 1st through 8th grades were in the 67th percentile.

Math Comparisons

100 80 60 40 20 0

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Reading Comparisons

100 80 60 40 20 0

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Grade Level

Diocese of Austin Average Texas Catholic Schools Average * National Catholic Schools Average * National Average * * Based on 2021-2022 school year, which is the most recent NWEA data available.

St. Thomas Aquinas Mass The annual Catholic Schools St. Thomas Aquinas Mass recognizes middle school students for their leadership and service to the community, as well as high school students for being named National Merit Scholars. This year's celebration took place on February 22, at St. Helen Catholic Church and School in Georgetown, with Father James Misko as the main celebrant; 58 middle school students and 25 high school students were honored.

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Grade Level

National Merit Scholars from across our Catholic High schools with Vicar General, Father James Misko.

Serving Students with Diverse Learning Needs

The Connection Between Catholic Social Teaching and Civic Engagement During the Spring 2024 semester, 50 high school students from three of our Catholic high schools, San Juan Diego Catholic High School, St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School, and Holy Trinity Catholic High School, participated in a pilot project that gave them the opportunity to discuss the root causes of poverty and how students can affect change to make a difference. After spending time researching the effects of poverty and discussing the examples they see in central Texas, these students identified their state representatives and began crafting questions about how the Texas Legislature is addressing these issues.

A Starting Point for Catholic School Students in the Diocese of Austin With the assistance of Texas Conference of Catholic Bishops (TCCB), several state representatives crafted responses to the students’ questions and allowed the responses to be posted on a teaching resource page for discussion in our high school religion and government classes. While these insightful high school students have not solved the causes and symptoms of poverty yet, they do realize they have a voice and can be a part of this important conversation.

This past year, three Catholic schools - Santa Cruz Catholic School, San Juan Diego Catholic High School, and St. Theresa Catholic School - received funding from Shepherd Them All Foundation, an organization whose mission is to accompany and equip educators to create an environment of belonging for individuals with differing abilities, to participate in professional development opportunities led by Inclusion Solutions, LLC, to assist in serving the needs of students with learning differences.

While resources and support vary by school, classroom teachers, learning specialists, counselors, administrators and the Office of Caholic Schools, work together with families to find ways to adapt teaching styles to fit students’ needs.

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GOOD NEWS

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Unification and Founding of St. Michael's Catholic Preparatory School

Celebrating St. Theresa Catholic School as a National Blue Ribbon School

On November 16, 2022, the Board of Trustees for St. Gabriel’s Catholic School and St. Michael’s Catholic Academy voted unanimously to unify and thus became the community of St. Michael’s Catholic Preparatory School.

This decision was made as a culmination of many years of discussion, research, planning, and discernment. The Board was keenly aware of the competitive and challenging environment for independent schools locally in the Austin market, across Texas, and nationally. St. Gabriel’s and St. Michael’s were so closely aligned in mission, Catholic values, and exceptional social-emotional, academic, and extracurricular offerings, not to mention location. The Board of Trustees believed that the unified school could provide an even more exceptional Catholic experience for students and families. At the start of the 2023-2024 academic year, the joining of the two schools marked a significant chapter in the school’s journey, and through faith, collaboration, and partnership, the two schools have grown into one community, planning to honor the past, embrace the present, and co-create a bright future.

St. Theresa Catholic School in Austin was designated an Exemplary High Performing National Blue Ribbon School for 2023 by the U.S. Secretary of Education, Miguel Cardona.

St. Theresa is one of 353 schools in the nation, one of 29 schools from Texas, and the only school in Austin to be recognized in 2023.

Misty Poe, Superintendent, Father Larry Covington, pastor at St. Theresa Catholic Church and School, and Brian Wheeler, principal of St. Theresa Catholic School.

St. Mary’s Catholic School, Taylor - High School Complex Blessing and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony On April 26, 2023, Bishop Vásquez, the Office of Catholic Schools, and the Taylor Chamber of Commerce celebrated the blessing and ribbon cutting for the new high school complex at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Taylor. The complex houses six classrooms, along with a student/faculty center, where students continue to grow in their intellect, character and spirituality.

Blessing of the Wisdom Building at Holy Family Catholic School, Austin The community of Holy Family Catholic School in Austin celebrated the blessing of their newest space on campus, the Wisdom building, on March 9, 2023. Families and friends gathered with Father Tom Reitmeyer, pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Parish, to partake in this special moment, and tour the new space, which hosts classrooms for 5th and 6th grades, as well as spaces for art and technology.

Mrs. Tara Cevallos Appointed to Serve on the Governor’s Advisory Committee for Special Education On September 23, 2023, Governor Greg Abbott appointed Mrs. Tara Cevallos, principal of St. Austin Catholic School, to the Continuing Advisory Committee for Special Education for a term set to expire on February 1, 2027. The Committee provides policy guidance on special education and related services for children with disabilities in Texas.

Mrs. Kelly Laster Presented at the National Catholic Education Association Annual Convention In April 2023, many of our schools’ faculty and staff attended the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) Annual Convention in Dallas. Our own Assistant Superintendent, Mrs. Kelly Laster, was selected to present a breakout session on Integrating Catholic Social Teaching and Social Studies Curriculum.

As part of her breakout, Mrs. Laster shared about the partnerships the Diocese of Austin has developed to give students the best opportunities to engage in the seven themes of Catholic social teaching.

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CATHOLIC CHARITIES CHAMPIONS A Catholic Charities Champion is a school community within the Diocese of Austin that strives to live out the principles of serving, learning, giving and sharing the mission of Catholic Charities.

This past year, four of our Catholic schools were recognized as Catholic Charities Champions!

St. Michael’s Catholic Preparatory School in Austin As part of their Archangel Feast Day of Service, St. Michael’s students collaborated to collect and prepare thousands of baby diapers and hygiene items that benefited the families served throughout the St. Gabriel’s Pregnancy and Parenting Program. Additionally, students collected hundreds of family board games that were distributed to families as part of Catholic Charities’ 25th Anniversary celebration.

St. Joseph Catholic Academy in Killeen St. Joseph Catholic Academy partnered with Catholic Charities on a number of service and giving projects, including holding a Baby Diaper and Hygiene Drive, as well as creating Veteran’s Day cards for veterans staying at hospital facilities in Temple and Killeen. Additionally, middle and high school students participated in a poverty simulation that allowed them to experience the plight of families experiencing homelessness.

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Serving

Learning

Sharing

St. Louis Catholic School in Austin For their Parish/School Feast Day in 2023, St. Louis Catholic School donated and wrapped thousands of diapers that benefited families served through the St. Gabriel’s Pregnancy and Parenting Program.

St. Theresa Catholic School in Austin Every year, St. Theresa Catholic School holds a Lenten Diaper Drive to benefit families served throughout the St. Gabriel’s Pregnancy and Parenting Program. After reaching the goal of collecting 25,000 diapers to commemorate Catholic Charities’ 25th Anniversary, St. Theresa’s students set a new diocesan record for a school-based donation drive.

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FINANCIALS Fiscal Responsibility Our Catholic schools practice fiscal responsibility, working closely with their pastors, advisory school boards, and the diocesan Pastoral Center. We always seek to be good stewards of our funding, using it to enhance the Christ-centered educational experiences of our students.

As we seek to keep tuition as low as possible for our families while recognizing the outstanding job performed by our faculty and staff, Catholic schools hold fundraisers and annual fund drives to bridge the gap between tuition and the cost to educate a student.

Student Activities 2.1% Subsidy from Parishes 6.6%

AVERAGE PER STUDENT

Average Cost to Educate

$ 13,609.00

Average Tuition and Fees

$ 9,486.00

Average Gap covered by development activities and parish support

$ 4,123.00

Subsidy from Diocese 1.9%

Other Income 12.1%

Development Revenue 17.3%

By the Numbers K-12 SCHOOLS

Operating Revenues F Y 2024

Tuition & Fees 60%

Tuition & Fees: $ 33,734,941 Development Revenue: $ 9,733,369 Other Income*: $ 6,820,138 Subsidy from Parishes: $ 3,704,931 Student Activities: $ 1,194,163 Subsidy from Diocese: $ 1,049,038 * Other income includes revenue from donations, rental income, and revenue interest.

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Catholic School Finance Operating Expenses F Y 2024 Professional Services

4.8% Other Expenses

2.2%

Student Expenses 5.8%

Development Expenses

1.9%

General and Administrative 8.3%

Facilities 8.8% Salaries 68.3%

Salaries & Benefits: $ 36,360,335 Facilities: $ 4,682,849 General & Administrative: $ 4,407,607 Student Expenses: $ 3,094,054 Professional Services: $ 2,560,514 Other Expenses*: $ 1,149,559 Development Expenses: $ 999,444 * Other expenses include interest and investment expenses, and taxes.

The Diocese of Austin is committed to supporting our Catholic schools in finding innovative ways to remain viable while offering financial assistance to those families that otherwise may not be able to attend. The Office of Catholic Schools is thankful for our collaborative partners in this mission. In partnership with the Office of Finance, diocesan staff offer support to schools with budgeting assistance as well as reinforces collaboration with business managers and pastors to serve the mission of Catholic education.

The continued success of schools and support for tuition assistance are made in partnership with all stakeholders.

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schools offer a parishioner discount

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schools offer a multi-child discount

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schools offer an employee discount

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schools offer tuition assistance opportunities All 19 schools offer tuition assistance programs to support families who desire a Catholic education for their children.

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2024 SAINTS & SCHOLARS The annual Saints & Scholars, Celebrating Catholic Schools Gala celebrates Catholic education in the Diocese of Austin while honoring the “unsung” heroes at each of our 19 Catholic schools, and raises much-needed funds that are returned to each school in support of their tuition assistance programs for students and their families.

This past year, we celebrated the 16th anniversary of this grand event, and Tim Glemkowski, executive director of the National Eucharistic Congress, was the keynote speaker for the evening. Thanks to your support and generosity, we were able to

raise $150,628 that went back to the schools for their tuition assistance programs.

Since 2009, 331 “unsung” heroes have been recognized for their commitment, dedication, and service to Catholic schools, and $1.7 million has been raised in support of tuition assistance. Learn more about this premier event at csdatx.org/2025gala.

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Celebrating our 2024 Catholic Service Award Recipients 2024 C.J. “Dutch” Kellerman Memorial Leadership Award THE DOLCE FAMILY

larry and martha schroeder St. Austin Catholic School, Austin

herica grimaldo St. Gabriel’s Catholic School, Austin

CSA SCHOLARSHIP CONTEST

HIGH SCHOOL

6TH - 8TH

3RD - 5TH

PREK - 2ND

For the fourth year in a row, the Catholic Services Appeal has sponsored a special scholarship contest for Catholic school students. This year's scholarship theme was Be a Miracle. Students had the opportunity to enter the contest by submitting an artistic project to describe what the theme meant to them. The committee reviewed 145 projects and is proud to recognize the winners of the 2023-2024 contest, per category: Jaylee S., 2nd Grade St. Mary’s Catholic School, Temple Johan R., Kinder St. Helen Catholic School, Georgetown Arath and Valeria Padron, 1st Grade Cathedral School of Saint Mary, Austin Rose K., 4th Grade Holy Family Catholic School, Austin Michael P., 3rd Grade St. Helen Catholic School, Georgetown Jeryl T., 4th Grade Holy Family Catholic School, Austin Lilly C., 6th Grade St. Louis Catholic School, Austin Claire L., 6th Grade Holy Family Catholic School, Austin Laina P., 7th Grade Holy Family Catholic School, Austin Cosimo D., 10th Grade St. Dominic Savio Catholic High School, Austin Gustavo R., 10th Grade San Juan Diego Catholic High School, Austin

Anna S., 9th Grade St. Michael’s Catholic Academy, Austin

In addition to the student scholarships, an additional $15,000 was awarded directly to schools. Schools had the opportunity to submit videos explaining how they, as school communities, are called to be miracles to others. Eight entries were received, and we congratulate the following winners:

Santa Cruz Catholic School $7,500 grant

San Juan Diego Catholic High School $7,500 grant

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TIME, TALENT, & TREASURE There are many ways you can make a difference and support the efforts of Catholic education in Central Texas.

Praying Lifting up our Catholic schools in your regular prayer life is essential to our continued success.

Join a school’s intercessory prayer team or commit to a Holy Hour of prayer at the school’s parish church in Adoration.

Volunteering Volunteering is another way to make a difference and advance the mission of our Catholic schools.

Your particular talent or your presence to our school community through volunteerism connects you to a vibrant community of faith that enriches everyone involved. Please reach out to a school if you are interested in service opportunities.

Giving In order to provide Catholic education to as many families as possible, tuition is lower than the cost to educate a child, creating a “tuition gap.”

Partnering with a Catholic school through its annual fund, tuition assistance fund, or bequests is a tangible way to support the programs of the school or to help a child whose family would not otherwise experience the fruits of Catholic education.

A joyfully Catholic environment invites parents, the first educators, to join schools in the shared responsibility of educating God's children.

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GRATEFUL FOR YOUR SUPPORT Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Austin gratefully recognizes the generosity of all individuals, sponsors, and partners who supported our mission in 2023-2024.

We are proud to recognize those donors who have contributed $1,500 or more by supporting the Catholic Services Appeal (for education), tuition assistance efforts at the diocesan level, and/or Saints & Scholars - Celebrating Catholic Schools Dinner and Awards Ceremony.

THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS

The Office of Catholic Schools makes every effort to ensure accuracy of this report, but should you find an error or omission, please contact us at catholicschools@austindiocese.org or (512) 949-2497.

Thank you for your faithful support!

ANNUAL DONOR ROLL Greg and Jean Waleke Anonymous x2 Dr. Ned Vanders Dr. Jose and Catherine Martinez Rob and Leslie Suffoletta Rob McNair Realtors Knights of Columbus St. John Neumann Parish, Austin Alison and Adam Tate Mike Santana Ron and Diane Riehs Friends of Jana Tuerff Faithful Servant Dr. Judy Knotts Dave and Maureen Addison JWH Communications / St. Austin Catholic School Advisory Board Paul and Ellen Seals Broecker Funeral Home St. Austin Parish friends of St. Austin School Dufour Law PLLC * A full list of Catholic School donors can be found at csdatx.org/2024ccs

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@CSDATX

Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Austin

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