One important distinction between schools of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and other Archdiocesan schools is the unique way in which the administration is structured.

In our Archdiocese, the parish and regional elementary schools are under the authority of the Pastor from each parish. The Elementary Staff in the Office of Catholic Education offers spiritual, academic, and personal guidance and support to the pastor through its work with the school administration and faculty.

In addition to visiting the parish and regional schools each year for the purpose of ongoing spiritual and academic support, the Elementary Staff is also responsible for developing curriculum guidelines, approving the list of teacher prospects, and planning the Principal Meetings. The Office of Catholic Education guides the local parish or regional school to formulate a visionary strategic plan guiding the work of the school’s administration, faculty, and staff.

Professional development opportunities, planning for a fuller integration of technology, as well as current educational initiatives, are provided for the schools from the Directors and the Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Educational Services. On a daily basis, the Office of Catholic Education staff stands ready to offer support and service to the parish and regional schools.

The High Schools are owned and operated by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and function as a system. At our Catholic high schools, the administrative leadership team is made up of the President, Principal, Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs, Assistant Principal for Student Services, Assistant Principal for Student Affairs, and the School Minister. The President is directly responsible to the Secretary for Catholic Education while the school Principal reports to the President and the Superintendent of Schools. All other administrative team members are under the direct guidance of the Principal.

The schools of Special Education are also owned and operated by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and are under the authority of the Office of Catholic Education. All policies and procedures for the schools of Special Education are generated in dialogue with the administration of the school and the Superintendent and disseminated through the Office of Catholic Education.

Both High Schools and the schools of Special Education follow a strategic plan constructed in conjunction with the individual schools and the Office of Catholic Education.