Maine Catholic Education Summit

Hosted by Bishop James Ruggieri and Maine Catholic Schools Superintendent Shelly Wheeler
Wednesday, November 6 at 6 p.m.
St. John’s Community Center, 43 Pleasant Street, Brunswick

"In an age awash in information, often transmitted without wisdom or critical sense, the task of forming present and future generations of Catholic teachers and students remains as important as ever." - Pope Francis

Catholic schools offer children a learning experience that goes beyond academics. The Diocese of Portland's nine elementary and middle schools and its two high schools focus on nurturing the whole child: body, mind, and spirit. Our Catholic schools help children discover their identities as sons and daughters of Christ and help them to learn the importance of sharing their love of Christ and the gifts they have received with others. As St. John Paul II stated, "The cause of Catholic education is the cause of Jesus Christ and of his Gospel at the service of man." 

But how do we ensure that as many children as possible have an opportunity to receive a Catholic education and that our schools continue to thrive? Those are the questions that will be explored at the Maine Catholic Education Summit, which will be hosted by Bishop James Ruggieri and Maine Catholic Schools Superintendent Shelly Wheeler on Wednesday, November 6 at 6 p.m. The event will take place at the St. John’s Community Center, 43 Pleasant Street in Brunswick.

Who should attend the summit?

Catholic school leaders, faculty and staff members, clergy and religious (with or without Catholic schools in their parishes), Catholic school families, parishioners, donors, Catholic homeschool families, and all those interested in Catholic education are invited to join in this important conversation.

Why should I consider participating?

The purpose of the summit is to understand the perception of key Catholic school stakeholders on the current state of Catholic schools in the Diocese of Portland and how the diocese can strengthen these schools to ensure their long-term vitality. Additionally, the summit will examine how Catholic schools can enhance their parish communities, including how to reach homeschooling families and how to best support these families with their Catholic education endeavors.

What should I expect at the summit?

The Diocese of Portland is partnering with ADAC (Attain, Differentiate, Advance, Collaborate) to offer this evening of discussion and facilitated questions/answers to learn about the state of Catholic education in Maine.

How do I sign up to attend?

To RSVP, please fill out this form.