January 31, 2023 Dear Kennedy Catholic Family of Schools Community,
On December 5, 2022, we, the Members of the Corporation, informed you we had initiated a board
intervention in an effort to ensure the future of Catholic education in the Shenango Valley. We
also outlined several specific expectations for the board to meet by January 27 as the first step
in a series of strategic performance indicators that had to be completed.
On Friday, January 27, we met with SVCSS board members Patrick Zoccole, Angela Surano and George
Becker, as well as KCHS Principal Janet Halicki, to review the progress made toward meeting those
expectations. We are happy to report that each of the performance indicators in the first phase has
been met or exceeded.
We recognize the individual and collective efforts of the board of directors who have worked
tirelessly to meet the expectations necessary to create a sustainable and healthy school system. We
commend the directors for their collaboration and open communication with the school administration
as well as with the Catholic Schools Office.
We are extremely grateful to Janet Halicki and Katie Tiefenthal who continue to provide safe and
supportive environments for the students and staff at Kennedy Catholic High School and St. John
Paul II Elementary. Their steady leadership and professionalism are a true service to the mission
of the church. We also wish to recognize those donors and volunteers who have stepped forward to
support the administration and board in achieving their goals. Without the ongoing support of the
community, it could not have happened.
In light of the board’s progress, we have given our approval to proceed with registration and
scheduling classes for both schools in the 2023-2024 school year. In addition, we have given the
board a new set of strategic performance indicators to ensure continued progress. These include
plans to hire a new president and to develop sustainable fundraising and enrollment plans as well
as a long-range strategic plan.
We are particularly pleased to share this good news with you during Catholic Schools Week, a time
set aside to celebrate the vital role Catholic education plays in advancing the mission of our
church and strengthening our communities and nation. We look forward to the continued collaboration
and depend on your ongoing support and commitment, including your prayers, for the success of these
important efforts.
Sincerely in Christ,
The Most Reverend Lawrence T. Persico Bishop of Erie
Mr. James Gallagher, Superintendent of Catholic Schools
Monsignor Edward Lohse Vicar General
Mr. James Hubert Chief Financial Officer
Phone(814)824-II I I www.eriercd.org
