Catalyst Schools: The Catholic Ethos and Public Charter Schools

Rebecca Proehl,Shirley Everett,Heather Starnes

doi:10.15365/joce.1802072015

Rebecca Proehl, Shirley Everett + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.15365/joce.1802072015

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Abstract

During the past decade, Catholic leaders have been exploring options to revitalize the faltering Catholic school system especially in urban centers. One route being explored by dioceses and religious orders is opening what have been called “religious charter schools.” Though not technically religious schools, they integrate many of the same values and pedagogical approaches as found in faith-based schools. In this article, the authors examined three Chicago public charter schools that are modeled on the successful San Miguel Schools, which are run by the Christian Brothers and are located in impoverished urban areas. After interviewing 40 participants, observing 20 classrooms, and reviewing archival documents, the authors described the challenges faced, tensions experienced, and lessons learned while transferring a Lasallian (Christian Brother) educational model into the public sector.

Highlights

Part of the Adult and Continuing Education Administration Commons, Elementary and Middle and Secondary Education Administration Commons, Other Education Commons, and the Urban Education Commons
The authors examined three Chicago public charter schools that are modeled on the successful San Miguel Schools, which are run by the Christian Brothers and are located in impoverished urban areas
Since the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops issued its statement in 2005 entitled Renewing Our Commitment to Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools in the Third Millennium, Catholic leaders have explored options to revitalize the faltering Catholic school system, especially in urban centers

Summary

Introduction

Part of the Adult and Continuing Education Administration Commons, Elementary and Middle and Secondary Education Administration Commons, Other Education Commons, and the Urban Education Commons. Catholic leaders have been exploring options to revitalize the faltering Catholic school system especially in urban centers. The authors examined three Chicago public charter schools that are modeled on the successful San Miguel Schools, which are run by the Christian Brothers and are located in impoverished urban areas. After interviewing 40 participants, observing 20 classrooms, and reviewing archival documents, the authors described the challenges faced, tensions experienced, and lessons learned while transferring a Lasallian (Christian Brother) educational model into the public sector. Since the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops issued its statement in 2005 entitled Renewing Our Commitment to Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools in the Third Millennium, Catholic leaders have explored options to revitalize the faltering Catholic school system, especially in urban centers. The trend in Catholic school enrollment continues to be undeniable.

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