Section E E-2 CATHOLIC EDUCATION June 1, 2005

Transcription

1 CATHOLIC EDUCATION The Christian faithful, since they are called by baptism to lead a life in conformity with the teaching of the gospel, have the right to a Christian education by which they will be properly instructed so as to develop the maturity of a human person and at the same time come to know and live the mystery of salvation (C 217). A Christian education does not merely strive for the maturing of a human person, but has as its principal purpose this goal: that the baptized, while they are gradually introduced to the knowledge of the mystery of salvation, become ever more aware of the gift of Faith they have received, and that they learn in addition how to worship God the Father in spirit and truth (John 4:23), especially in liturgical action, and be conformed in their personal lives according to the new person created in justice and holiness of truth (Ephesians 4:22-24); also, that they develop into perfection, to the mature measure of the fullness of Christ (Ephesians 4:13) and strive for the growth of the Mystical Body. Moreover, that aware of their calling, they learn not only how to bear witness to the hope that is in them (I Peter 3:15), but also how to help in the Christian formation of the world that takes place when natural powers viewed in the full consideration of the person redeemed by Christ contribute to the good of the whole of society (DEC n. 2). Those who are engaged in the sacred disciplines enjoy a lawful freedom of inquiry and of prudently expressing their opinions on matters in which they have expertise, while observing a due respect for the Magisterium of the Church (C 218). The mission of Catholic education in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston is to make God known through the Gospel of Jesus Christ and through the authentic teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. Fostering the ongoing development of the person spiritually, intellectually, physically, emotionally and socially, Catholic education addresses the diverse needs of all the people of God, individually and in community, enabling their full maturity as adult Christians. Catholic education empowers persons to witness to Gospel values, thus transforming the world community by inspiring hope and joy (Board of Education 4/84). The bishop is the primary educator of the faith to the members of his archdiocese. It is his responsibility to see that the truths of the Catholic faith are believed and applied to moral issues. Pastors of souls assist in this important work and have the duty of ensuring that all the faithful entrusted to him may enjoy a Catholic education. Parents, as well as those who take their place, are obliged to educate their children in the ways of the Catholic faith. They have the right to use Catholic educational programs to assist them in their responsibility. (c. 386, 794, 796) I. The Archdiocesan Board of Education provides policy direction for the educational programs of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. A. Members of the board show their acceptance of responsibility as board members by regular attendance and participation at meetings and activities sponsored by the board. Board members participate in at least one training session a year that is specifically designed for board members. (BEP 850)

2 Section E E-2 B. The Board welcomes input. Those making a presentation to the Board must send a written summary of their presentation at least three weeks before the meeting, may speak for no more than ten minutes at the meeting, and should not expect a reply at the time of presentation (BEP 950). C. Grievances shall be preceded by efforts at conciliation and action on any decision will be communicated promptly to the presenter and those affected (BEP 950). Every serious grievance shall be addressed in an equitable and expeditious manner at the lowest possible level. By "grievance" is meant a complaint based on any alleged serious violation or inequitable application of promulgated policy, or a dispute over the meaning of the terms of a contract if one exists. Clearly formulated procedures are in place in parishes to provide orderly channels to deal with problem situations and for appeal where there is failure to resolve in the first instance (BEP 270). The Archdiocesan Board of Education is not itself a grievance board. For more information on the grievance process for archdiocesan employees, refer to PM Q F. For Student/Parent complaints contact the school administrator to obtain the appropriate forms and information about the process. D. The policies of local boards of education shall include those adopted with the Bishop's approval by the Archdiocesan Board of Education and not be in contradiction to those of the Archdiocesan Board (BEP 110). E. The Archdiocesan Board of Education will establish an award program by which persons, groups or organizations will be recognized for their service and/or contributions according to criteria set by the departments accountable to the Board (BEP 180.1). II. Parish Boards of Education A. Purpose: A parish board of education is to provide the parish with an appropriate representative body for identifying and articulating the educational needs and aspirations of the Christian community, which are called goals, and which become the basis for program objectives and policies for the total formal educational program of the parish, including schools, catechetical programs and adult education (GPB n.i). A parish board advises the pastor for the total educational ministry of the parish: the school, the religious education of children not in the parish school and adult education (MSD). B. Nature: The board is an advisory body which consults with the pastor in developing policies and addressing the needs in matters of education for the parish. Board members are expected to strive to reach consensus in shaping decisions. (GPB n.ii) When it is necessary to decide a matter by vote, ex officio members do not participate.

3 Section E E-3 C. Functions of the Parish Board are to: 1. identify the goals of the educational programs. 2. propose policies to the pastor to guide the administrative staff in pursuing these goals, while leaving administrators discretionary latitude to design educational programs within the limits of the board's goals. 3. review the decisions made by the administrative staff in working toward these goals. 4. evaluate the effectiveness of the board's policies and programs. 5. review and approve the educational budget prior to submission the pastor. 6. advise the pastor in the selection of the chief administrators of the programs (the principal and the catechetical leader) (GPB n. III). 7. formulate procedures to deal with grievances/problem situations and to provide for appeals when there is a failure to resolve in the first instance (BEP 270). D. Composition of the Board: 1. The board should have not fewer than five nor more than eleven members. 2. The pastor is an ex officio member with the right of approval or veto. 3. Lay members (non-professional educators) ideally are selected by and from the entire adult parish membership and parents who have children enrolled in the school or catechetical program. However, when a board is first being formed, it may be desirable to have the lay members appointed by the pastor and the pastoral council. Those who should not be considered as candidates are employees of the parish and school; spouses, children or siblings of employees; more than one member of an immediate family at a time; board members or professional educators of another school or system. Members of the Board should represent the various cultural/ethnic groups of the parish. 4. The participation and presence of the principal of the school and the catechetical leader is crucial. In parishes where there is only one administrator (principal or catechetical leader), that individual is automatically the Administrative Officer of the Board. In parishes where there is more than one administrator, the board appoints one administrator to serve as its Administrative Officer. (GPB n. IV)

4 Section E E-4 E. Selection of Board Members: Recognizing that parishes may opt to elect new members of the board, discernment is recommended as the preferred method of selection of new board members. Discernment elicits the guidance of the Holy Spirit on the process and promotes selection of new members based on the needs of the board with consideration to diversity and board goals. Discernment processes may vary from parish to parish. Consultation in the discernment process is available through the Archdiocesan Board of Education. A nominating committee of at least three to five members should be appointed. The committee should clearly communicate its efforts to all members of the parish and provide for the "pre-orientation" of the prospective nominees. A preorientation meeting consists of informing prospective board members of board membership eligibility requirements, responsibilities and time commitment. At this time the prospective members may also ask questions of current board members. The committee then recommends to the Pastor a slate of candidates for discernment. This slate should contain more names than there are positions to be filled. The Board will host a Discernment Meeting to make the final discernment of the new members from the slate approved by the Pastor. A General Description of the Discernment Process is found in the Guidelines for Parish Boards. Assistance for implementing discernment of new members is available through the Archdiocesan Board of Education. (GPB V C) F. Terms of office should be three years. Original members' terms should be staggered so that terms overlap and only a minority are going off the board at any one time. Members should be eligible for a second term. Board members who serve are subject to removal by the pastor. (GPB n. VI) G. Members of an education board shall show their acceptance of responsibility as board members by regular attendance and participation at meetings and activities sponsored by their board. Board members shall furthermore participate in at least one training session a year that is specifically designed for board members. (BEP 850) H. Officers of the Board are chosen from and by the elected members and should include a President, Vice-President and Secretary (GPB VII). Officers are subject to removal by the pastor. I. Committees, standing or ad hoc, may be named subject to the approval of the pastor. They may be composed of members of the board and the community at large, but should be chaired by a board member. The President and the Administrative Officer shall be ex officio members of all committees. (GPB n. VIII)

5 Section E E-5 J. Meetings are held monthly, except July and December, at a specified day, time and place and are open, unless designated as "executive" or "closed" sessions for the purpose of discussing confidential issues. Decisions made in executive session must be approved at an open meeting. Special meetings may be called by the pastor, the President, or a majority of the members. Agenda should be sent to members 7-10 days before the meeting. (GPB n. IX) III. Education and Formation: A. Every parish shall be committed to Religious Education for all parishioners, regardless of age, race, sex, or ability to pay. In the interest of fairness and equity, consideration should be given to the needs of each religious education program within the parish in determining the usage of all facilities, supplies, and equipment. (BEP 120.1) B. Every parish shall have an education board (body) (BEP 120): 1. Board of Education: The preferred model of an education board is a Board of Education which shares responsibility for the total educational ministry of the parish, i.e., the parish school, religious education for children not in the parish school and adult education. A Board of Education proposes policy for all educational programs, reviews and presents budgets to the pastor for them and advises the pastor in hiring both the principal and the catechetical leader (MSD). The pastor (or administrator) of the parish, ex-officio, shall be a member of the board and have the right of approval or veto. The principal and catechetical leader shall be ex-officio members, and have no vote. One of them shall be named Administrative Officer of the board. No other employee of the education programs is eligible for full or ex-officio membership. (GPB n. IV) The Board President, Vice-President and Secretary shall be selected from the discerned members of the board. (GPB n. VII) and/or 2. Religious Education Board: A Religious Education Board shares responsibility for all of the religious education programs of the parish. A Religious Education Board proposes to the pastor policy for all religious education programs (preschool through adult), reviews and presents budgets to the pastor and advises the pastor in hiring the director or coordinator of religious education. The pastor (or administrator) of the parish, ex-officio, shall be a member of the board and have the right of approval or veto. The director of religious education shall be an ex-officio member, but have no vote. The director of religious education shall be named Administrative Officer of the board. No other employee of the religious education program is eligible for full or ex-officio membership. The Board President, Vice- President and Secretary shall be selected from the discerned members of the board. Note: A Religious Education Board usually exists in a parish that does not have a day school. (MSD)

6 Section E E-6 and/or 3. School Board: A School Board advises the pastor regarding the parish school. The School Board proposes policies for all of its programs, and advises the pastor in hiring the principal. The pastor (or administrator) of the parish, ex-officio, shall be a member of the board and have the right of approval or veto. The principal, who also serves as Administrative Officer, shall be an ex-officio member and have no vote. No other employee of the school is eligible for full or ex-officio membership. (GPB N. IV) The Board President, Vice-President and Secretary shall be selected from the discerned members of the board. C. The policies of the school board shall be those policies approved by the Bishop and adopted by the Archdiocesan Board of Education. In addition, the local board may develop such additional policies as are necessary to govern the operation of the education program. Those additional policies may not be in conflict nor contradict the policies of the Archdiocesan Board of Education. The additional policies shall be approved by the pastor and filed with the Archdiocesan Board of Education through the Administrative Officer. (BEP 110) D. In order to provide parents and educators an opportunity for educational cooperation, a parent organization is encouraged for religious education programs and Catholic schools. The organization shall be formed according to Archdiocesan guidelines. (BEP 440) E. Relative to size and financial income, each parish should have a trained and salaried person responsible for the Catechetical programs in the parish, under the direction of the pastor. (BEP 520) F. All parishes shall foster the practice of having their catechists enroll in the Archdiocesan Catechist Development Program with a view toward having all catechists receive a full archdiocesan certificate (BEP 530). G. All parishes shall provide pre-sacramental preparation programs for parents of children who are to celebrate Baptism, Penance, Eucharist, and Confirmation (BEP 570). H. All schools and parishes shall provide Catechesis in Sexuality in accordance with the guidelines and curriculum set forth in the Archdiocesan Guidelines for Catechesis in Sexuality (BEP 510). I. Every serious grievance shall be addressed in an equitable and expeditious manner at the lowest possible level (BEP 270).

7 Section E E-7 IV. Parish Religious Education Programs (CCE) Parish catechetical programs are to follow the curriculum as stated in the Guidelines produced and promulgated in Archdiocesan Catechesis for Children and Adolescents. The guidelines provide the parish with established goals and objectives that are to be followed in all religious education programs. Recognizing the uniqueness of each parish, the material presented intends to encourage a course of studies suitable to individual need. The guidelines aim at providing adequate coverage of the essential elements of catechesis and provide for liturgical experiences which will contribute to and foster the development of young people as informed Christians and provide them with the awareness of a distinct Catholic identity in faith, worship and lifestyle as witnesses for Christ in the world. Following the prescribed curriculum will help to ensure for all our students a clear and uniform presentation of the faith in concepts appropriate to each age level. All programs for religious education should make use of textbooks and instructional materials which have been approved by the USCCB Committee to Oversee the Use of the Catechism. Assistance in choosing appropriate catechetical texts is available through the Office of Continuing Christian Education of the archdiocese. Lists of approved texts are available from the CCE Office or from the website of the USCCB. V. Parish Adult Education Committees: A. should be guided by the Church documents, Sharing the Light of Faith, the National Catechetical Directory, NCCB, 1978; Adult Catechesis in the Christian Community, International Council for Catechesis, Vatican City, 1990; General Directory for Catechesis, USCC, 1997; Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us, USCC, B. should follow the Archdiocesan Board of Education policy #410 "Pastors, in sharing their responsibility for the educational mission of the Church, must provide for the direction and coordination of adult religious education programs and processes developed in response to parishioners' needs and sensitive to the multicultural, socio-economic, disabled and age diversity of the faith community. This direction and coordination can be implemented by any one of the following: Total Board of Education, Religious Education Board, Adult Religious Education Committee or Director of Religious Education, salaried or volunteer." C. should be in contact with the Archdiocesan CCE Office for support, consultation, resources and opportunities for skills training specific to Adult Religious Education Ministry. D. should be encouraged to prepare programs for adults based on the known needs of adults in the parish. The planning of these programs should involve parish staff, the catechetical, school and parish community.

8 Section E E-8 VI. Adult Formation For Leadership in Ministry: This three level structure of formation was compiled to create a coordinated, developmental process of adult education and formation for the demands of ministry in the Church. The process is to be used throughout the archdiocese as the norm for adult education and formation on the archdiocesan level and to make the best use of the human and financial resources of the archdiocese. When necessary, formation programs (for leadership in ministry) should be offered in the native language of participants. A Coordinating Board meets regularly to oversee that the archdiocesan process addresses the needs of the parishes in developing trained leaders. This three level process includes: A. Level I Formation Toward Christian Ministry/Formacion Para El Ministerio Cristiano are parallel basic formation processes in English and Spanish which include spiritual, academic and interpersonal skills development fundamental to all ecclesial ministries. This three semester, forty-five week core formation program seeks to call forth the baptismal commitment of service to others, deepen knowledge and understanding of Christian teachings, and address the whole person of the minister by integrating academic spiritual and interpersonal skills basic to Christian ministry. Skills for Ministry, a basic skills training program for parish leadership, is an additional fifteen week program. Catechist Formation Certification, parish catechetical leaders should encourage their catechists to enroll in the Archdiocesan Catechist Formation Program with a view toward having all catechists receive a full archdiocesan certificate (BEP 530). The Catechist Formation process includes: 1. Initial Certification: Content Courses (51 hrs.), Catechetics (10 hrs. min.), Electives (18 hrs. max.), Day of Reflection, One (1) year teaching experience. 2. Full Catechist Certification: Initial Certification and remaining hours of Content Courses (102 total hrs.). Catechetics (20 total hrs.), Electives (36 total hrs.), Day of Reflection, two (2) years additional teaching experience. 3. Renewal of Catechist Certification: Within a three (3) year period, a person must acquire thirty (30) additional hours. Parish, archdiocesan and college courses, workshops in theology, scripture, morality and teaching skills, conferences, catechist days, etc., will be accepted towards renewal of catechist certificate.

9 Section E E-9 4. For a person to be certified as a catechist, s/he must be 18 years of age and fully initiated into the Church (Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist). A younger person can be an aid and should not be left alone in a classroom. 5. Contact the Office for Continuing Christian Education for a list of specific course requirements. Basic Formation for Catechetical Leadership/Formación Basica Para Lideres Catequeticos, is a 36 hour formational process for those active in the catechetical ministry and are discerning their call to ministry as a catechetical leader or those who are beginning catechetical leaders. This program is offered in English and Spanish. Certificate in Pastoral Liturgy, four semesters, with an optional certification in Pastoral Music, an additional two semesters, is a basic formation program designed for persons preparing for leadership roles in liturgy and music. Basic Certificate in Youth Ministry is a youth ministry skills based program designed to form entry level persons who need basic skills as a volunteer or newly hired professional in youth ministry. The program consists of nine (9) day long sessions of six (6) hours each. The completion of this program, combined with FTCM, is required of all youth ministry leaders. Retreat Formation is required of all persons responsible for designing and implementing retreats for early and older adolescents. This formation is provided by the Archdiocesan Office of Youth Ministry. Family Advocate Training, (contact Family Life Office for details). Parish Social Minister Training, (contact Catholic Charities for details). B. Level II Catechetical Leadership Institute, is a two year process for catechetical leaders who desire advanced formation in theological courses and skills needed to minister in an inclusive, multicultural church and archdiocese. Youth Ministry Leadership Institute is offered as the second level of ongoing formation for directors of youth ministry, with three or more years of parish experience, who have completed F.T.C.M. and earned the Basic Certificate in Youth Ministry. YMLI is a two-year program in conjunction with CLI (Christian Leadership Institute) from the Continuing Christian Education Office one year of instruction in youth ministry skills and one year of theology development. The director that completes the training will have achieved a greater development of skills for comprehensive youth ministry, a deeper understanding of theology, and

10 Section E E-10 the experience of shared faith, fellowship and networking. A certificate of completion is awarded following fulfillment of all program requirements. Diploma/Bachelor in Pastoral Theology, a program offered at St. Mary's Seminary through the University of St. Thomas, offers training to permanent deacon candidates, their wives, parish leadership and person's seeking college level theology and skills training. C. Level III Advanced Educational Programs include Masters of Divinity, Masters of Theology and Masters of Pastoral Theology offered at St. Mary's Seminary. Degree conferred by St. Thomas University. VII. Catechetical Leadership A. The Director of Religious Education is responsible for directing the total parish religious education program and is directly responsible to the pastor. The DRE understands the nature and purpose of parish religious education and has good communication and public relation skills. This person possesses a Master's degree in Religious Studies/Religious Education or related field and has training in administering parochial catechetical programs, a minimum of three years teaching experience, three years supervisory experience and praxis in theology and church tradition. B. A Coordinator of Religious Education is responsible for an area of a parish religious education program or for the total program under the guidance of the pastor or DRE hired by the pastor. This person should understand the nature and purpose of his/her responsibilities and work well with others. A CRE possesses the following qualifications: A Bachelor's degree in Religious Education/Religious Studies or a related field, training in the administration of parochial catechetical programs or a certificate in Ministry Studies or its equivalent from the Archdiocesan Office. A minimum of three years teaching experience, three years supervisory experience and praxis in theology and church tradition are also required. C. The minimum qualifications any person responsible for catechetical parish programs should have is Full Archdiocesan Catechist Certification, one to three years teaching experience and be involved in continuing education and spiritual development opportunities. D. All applicants interested in a parish position as DRE/CRE (paid or volunteer) must submit their applications to, and be interviewed by, the CCE Office simultaneously or prior to applying for a position at the parish level (BEP 260.B). VIII. Youth Ministry

11 Section E E-11 A. The Director of Youth Ministry (Coordinator of Youth Ministry) is the pastoral minister primarily responsible for facilitating, planning, and administering programs for early and older adolescents utilizing Renewing the Vision: A Framework for Catholic Youth Ministry (USCCB document) as the foundation. In light of this, the youth ministry leader, also a catechetical leader, shares the responsibility of religious education with the Director (Coordinator) of Religious Education for early and older adolescents. In order to be effective, the development of leadership systems for adult and youth leaders (recruitment, formation and support), and serving as an advocate and link for young people to the parish faith community and the surrounding neighborhood is key. Therefore, the director must always be well formed and continue his/her own formation in order to effectively facilitate the formation of volunteers, the development of sound programs, and to provide proper resources to the parish community utilizing a comprehensive model. Key qualifications and plan for formation (salaried or volunteer) may be obtained from the Office of Youth Ministry's Archdiocesan Handbook for Catholic Youth Ministry. It is highly suggested that salaried personnel possess a Bachelor's degree (theology, religious education, or related field) and at least 3 years experience working within a youth ministry program. B. Components of Comprehensive Ministry (Renewing the Vision: A Framework for Catholic Youth Ministry) 1. The Ministry of Advocacy engages the entire church to examine its priorities and practices to determine how well young people are integrated into the life, mission and work of the Catholic community. 2. The Ministry of Catechesis helps early and older adolescents develop a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ and the Christian community, and increase their knowledge of the core content of the Catholic faith. It also helps young people enrich and expand their understanding of the Scriptures and the sacred tradition and their application to life today, and live more faithfully as disciples of Jesus Christ in their daily lives. 3. The Ministry of Community Life builds an environment of love, support, appreciation for diversity and judicious acceptance that models Catholic principles; develops meaningful relationships; and nurtures Catholic faith. 4. The Ministry of Evangelization shares the Good News of the reign of God and invites young people to hear about the Word made flesh. This component incorporates several elements: witness, outreach, proclamation, invitation, conversion and discipleship.

12 Section E E The Ministry of Justice and Service nurtures in young people a social consciousness and a commitment to a life of justice and service rooted in their faith in Jesus Christ, in the Scriptures and in Catholic social teaching; empowers young people to work for justice by concrete efforts to address the causes of human suffering; and infuses the concepts of justice, peace and human dignity into all ministry efforts. 6. The Ministry of Leadership Development calls forth, affirms and empowers the diverse gifts, talents and abilities of adults and youth in our faith communities for comprehensive ministry with adolescents. 7. The Ministry of Pastoral Care is a compassionate presence in imitation of Jesus' care of people, especially those who were hurting and in need. This ministry involves promoting positive adolescent and family development through a variety of positive (preventive) strategies: caring for adolescents and families in crisis through support, counseling and referral to appropriate community agencies; providing guidance as young people face life decisions and make moral choices. 8. The Ministry of Prayer and Worship celebrates and deepens young people's relationship with Jesus Christ through the bestowal of grace, communal prayer and liturgical experiences. IX. Young Adult Ministry A. Young adults are defined as men and women ages 18-35, whether single or married. B. Young adult ministry is a ministry of evangelization aimed at connecting young adults with: 1. Jesus Christ, 2. the Church, 3. the misison of the Church in the world, and 4. a peer community. (See U.S. Biships, Sons and Daughters of the Light: A Pastoral Plan for Ministry with Young Adults, 1996). C. Ministry with young adults in the parish may be coordinated by a staff member or by young adult volunteers. Young adult ministry is done with young adults rather than for them; thus there should be opportunity for developing collaboration and leadership skills.

13 Section E E-13 D. Parish ministry with young adults should aim at integration of young adults into all areas of parish life and leadership, not simply the establishment of a young adult group. E. Young adult ministry is to be kept separate and distinct from youth ministry. Minors under 18 and high school students should not be members of the same group as young adults who are over 18 and graduates of high school. Young adult groups should also be discouraged from accepting members older than 35; care should be taken to encourage older single adults to find other social opportunities. F. A key element of young adult ministry will be vocational discernment, inviting young adults to consider a vocation to priesthood or religious life, while also providing for proximate and immediate preparation for those intending marriage. G. If there is a community college within the parish boundaries, young adult ministry should include an outreach to the campus, coordinated with the Office of Young Adult and Campus Ministry. X. Catholic Schools A. A school within the boundaries of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston that will be known as a Catholic School shall follow the regulations as set forth by the Catholic School Office (BEP 621). B. The Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston admit all students to the rights, privileges, programs and activities made available to the student body. They shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, national or ethnic origin in the administration of admission, loan, athletic or scholarship programs. (BEP 652.1) C. Student development in Catholic schools is to include: Christian truths and values, meeting the needs and talents of all the students, preparing students to assume their roles in society, learning to appreciate the richness and variety of cultural environmental heritage, acquiring an understanding of the importance of physical and mental health and ecological concerns, becoming knowledgeable and active participants in civic and governmental affairs and developing an understanding of the economic system and how to participate successfully in it (AHR p.3). D. Catholic schools are organized and operated to assure the full participation and cooperation of parents, faculty and students. They are to enhance the quality of education through relationships with other educational agencies. Sound fiscal management and realistic planning are essential. (AHR p.3) E. The Board of Education of each school shares responsibility for the parish school. The Education Board proposes policies for all of its programs, approves the budget

14 Section E E-14 and determines sources of funding for its programs, and participates in hiring the principal. The pastor (or administrator) of the parish, ex-officio, shall be a member of the board and have the right of approval or veto. The principal, who also serves as Executive Officer, shall be an ex-officio member. No other employee of the school is eligible for full or ex-officio membership. The Board President, Vice- President and Secretary shall be selected from the discerned members of the board. (MSD) F. Catholic schools are to establish a program of ongoing planning and evaluation and are to report regularly the status of the schools to those served (AHR p.4). G. The possessory conservator shall be granted the same rights of access to the medical and educational records of the child (in the Catholic school) as the managing conservator. All references in the records to the place of residence of the managing conservator of the child shall be deleted prior to their release to the possessory conservator. (BEP 653.3) A student shall not be released to any person other than the legal guardian (managing conservator) except when the principal has reasonable assurance that the release is authorized by the managing conservator (BEP 655.2). H. All principals and teachers must have their credentials reviewed for approval by the Archdiocesan School Office before being employed by the local school (BEP 260.A). I. A child or an employee with a chronic disease (e.g. a malignancy, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, AIDS Related Complex) can be enrolled or employed in a Catholic school with the approval of the person's physician, and will be considered eligible for all rights, privileges and services of the local school. In addition: 1. The school will respect the right to privacy of the individual; therefore knowledge that a person has a chronic disease will be confined to those persons with a direct need to know. 2. Each person should be evaluated as an individual case, and exclusion from the school environment should be based on the person's physical limitations and psychosocial activity patterns. It should be recognized that the person who had or has AIDS is far more susceptible to "catching" something from others, than of transmitting infection to them. 3. When a child with a chronic disease such as AIDS must be removed from the school at the physician's advice, effort should be made to place the child in an appropriate educational setting. 4. Christian compassion, concern, and confidentiality are to be shown to persons suffering from chronic disease.

15 Section E E-15 Rationale: Students, teachers and other employees with a chronic reportable disease should be allowed to continue their instructional setting until their health or the health of others is threatened. In order to determine whether a risk of transmission exists, guidelines should be in written form to assure honest and just treatment of all persons involved. (BEP 655.1) J. The Catholic School Development Office is part of the Archdiocesan Development Department. It works to educate, support and assist all Catholic school principals, school boards, and finance councils in the promotion, coordination and implementation of development programs and fund-raising efforts. The office provides tuition assistance to those in financial need. The Office works directly with the Inner City Catholic Schools to raise funds for tuition assistance. XI. Sexuality Guidelines: All schools and parishes shall provide Catechesis in Sexuality in accordance with the guidelines and curriculum set forth in the Archdiocesan Guidelines for Catechesis in Sexuality (BEP 510). A. Catechesis in sexuality should be an integral part of parish and school catechetical programs provided for Catholics from early childhood through adulthood. A thorough and honest treatment of the moral, spiritual, psychological, emotional and physical dimensions of sexuality should be included in the catechesis. (DSC p.4) B. Pastors are obligated to see that sexuality catechesis is offered in the parishes and parish schools and follows Church teachings, scripture and Archdiocesan guidelines. Pastors need to be instrumental in program effectiveness, as well as, well informed of persons responsible for such catechesis. (DSC p.5; BEP 510) C. Parents have the primary responsibility for instructing their children. Those parents who have a special familiarity with sexuality catechesis should be invited to take part in planning, presenting and evaluating programs in the parish/school. Parishes must offer sexuality catechesis to parents prior to or simultaneous with sexuality catechesis for children and teenagers. Parents must be invited to preview programs in sexuality catechesis for their children and teenagers. If, after thoughtful consideration, parents choose to assume total responsibility for complete sexuality catechesis for their own children, their right to refuse the assistance of the Church by choosing non-participation for their children in structured programs offered by the parish/school must be respected. Because of the importance of parental modeling, parishes should offer sexuality catechesis to parents as early as baptismal preparation. Catechesis in sexuality for parents should be an integral part of parish/school religious education programs. (DSC p.6) D. Catechesis in sexuality should have its own specific curriculum, however, it should permeate all content areas and classes within the total educational process (DSC p.8). Content in catechesis in sexuality should be handled in a "spiraling" manner:

16 Section E E-16 it should be introduced at one point in time and further developed and/or revised throughout the educational and formational development of the person. E. Catechesis in sexuality should realistically consider the ethnic, economic, social, psychological and cultural needs of the community it serves (DSC p.9). F. All parishes, schools, archdiocesan offices and organizations using a text or instructional material as the basis of sexuality catechesis must consult and receive approval from the archdiocesan CCE office and must consult with the responsible office to ascertain that all speakers and materials will convey information consistent with Catholic sexuality teaching (DSC p.10). G. Catechists in sexuality must be certified through a training process approved by the CCE office (DSC p.15). H. Any group using a program or other tools for catechesis in sexuality must annually evaluate their total program according to the criteria set forth in the Archdiocesan Sexuality Catechesis Guidelines and Resources (DSC p.16). XII. In order to provide parents and educators an opportunity for educational cooperation, a parent organization is encouraged for religious education programs and Catholic schools. The organization shall be formed according to Archdiocesan guidelines (BEP 440). XIII. It is the policy of the Office of Continuing Christian Education that all guidelines, curriculum and formation processes are provided in the Spanish language as well as English. XIV. Ministry to persons with disabilities is provided through the CCE office. This includes resources, workshops and inservice as well as consultation and parish visitation to assist in religious education programming for students and parents. XV. Copyright Laws: It is illegal and immoral to reproduce copyrighted materials (present and future technologies) and music by any means without written permission of the copyright owner. Regardless of the use of the materials, it does not alter the legal or moral situation of copying without permission. This applies to all persons in all situations. (MCW n. 78; BCL 4/69; BL 9/94). The Archdiocesan Copyright Policy and Guideline packet should be consulted for questions regarding the copying of written, audio or visual materials (consult Director of Library Services in the Catholic School Office. Policy can be found as Q VI) XVI. Sacramental Celebrations in the Universities and Catholic high schools in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. (August, 1996)

17 Section E E-17 Though there is no specific policy which covers all universities and Catholic high schools in the archdiocese there is sufficient correspondence for particular universities and high schools which demonstrate the norms for sacramental celebration in these institutions. Below is a summary of the correspondence A. Universities: The celebration of the sacraments of Eucharist, Penance and Anointing of the Sick are to be normally offered. The sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation are not to be normally celebrated, an exception being catechumens and candidates brought into the faith through the RCIA process. The sacrament of Holy Matrimony is not to be normally celebrated. However, pastoral considerations can allow for the celebration of marriages. Marriages are allowed for students and alumni, not just dormitory residents. 1. University of Houston: Canonical parochial vicars of St. Mary Church. Sacramental records kept in Newman Center. 2. Rice University: Canonical parochial vicars of Holy Rosary Church. Sacramental records kept at Newman Center. 3. Texas Southern University: Canonical parochial vicars of St. Mary Church. Sacramental records kept at Archdiocesan Archives. 4. University of St. Thomas: All sacraments allowed for reception by the French community. General delegation for marriages given by pastor of St. Anne Church and sacramental records retained by St. Anne Church. 5. Galveston Newman Center: Canonical parochial vicars of Sacred Heart Church, Galveston. Infant baptisms and weddings are not to take place in the chapel. Adults who have gone through an RCIA program through the Newman Center may receive the sacraments of initiation in the chapel. These sacraments are to be recorded at Sacred Heart Church, Galveston. B. High Schools: Following is a summary of sacramental directives. 1. Baptism: To be celebrated in the local parishes. 2. Confirmation: Preparation and celebration to be done through local parishes. The parishes are to take into consideration the preparation students receive through the school s curricula. 3. Marriage: To be celebrated in the local parishes. Only in special circumstances, defined by the Bishop, can sacramental marriages be celebrated in school chapels and then with the specific delegation of the proper pastor.

18 Section E E Eucharist: Normally, no public Masses on Sundays. No home or school Masses on the major solemnities of Christmas and Triduum. XVII. Ministers for the Liturgy and Prayer Services in Catholic Schools In the Eucharist (Mass) and in celebrations of the other sacraments in the school setting the following criteria for liturgical ministers is to be observed. A. Eucharist Ministers are under the jurisdiction of the Bishop and are to be trained and commissioned for ministry in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. They are to meet the criteria specified in the Pastoral Manual: 18 years of age or a senior in high school, fully initiated in the Church, persons of genuine Eucharistic faith, living exemplary Catholic lives and have sound psychological maturity. The person must have no impediment to sacramental reception. They may be women of men, laity or religious. (p. H-5, #C 6) B. Lectors (readers are to be Catholic. The Directory for Masses with Children encourages children to exercise a variety of ministries, e.g. in Mass with children in which only a few adults participate, including the ministry of reader (DMC, 22). All readers, whether children or adults, should be truly qualified and prepared to exercise this important ministry so that the faithful may develop a warm and living love for Scripture from listening to the sacred texts read. (Lectionary for Mass: Introduction, 55) C. Altar servers are to be Catholic; they may be male or female. Fourth or fifth grade is recommended as an appropriate time for servers to begin this ministry. D. Ministers of hospitality (greeters, ushers) and music ministers may be of any faith represented in the school community. Students who are not Catholic may take active roles of ministry and leadership in nonsacramental celebrations and prayer services in the school.