The community of St. John the Baptist Catholic School was visited March 11-14 by five educators representing the accrediting agencies of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the Western Catholic Education Association.

These types of visits and the preparation involved are usually met with anxiety because they require close scrutiny of educational practices and pedagogy. I wish to share what a positive experience the accreditation process was and recognize the deep commitment of Father Gordon Kalil, our pastor, the faculty, staff, parents, alumni and parishioners of St. John the Baptist Catholic School and Parish.

Since assuming the role of principal in August 2005, I have been amazed at the support offered by so many in our community. This was exemplified last year following the New Year’s Eve flood, but amplified during this accreditation visit. Everyone stepped up to demonstrate that Catholic education at our school is indeed a true partnership. Many came forward to offer housing, food and hospitality to the visiting team. Most impressive, they offered their honest insights to the team about where we have been as a school and where we are going in the future.

It was clear to the WASC team that our sense of community, academic rigor, our healthy faith life and the respect afforded to all in our school and parish is only made possible because of our partnership. As one member of the visiting team wrote to me, “We all unanimously felt we wanted to be a part of where your school is so obviously heading. Everything was absolutely amazing, from the lavish food and accommodations to the casual and WASC-related conversation with members of your community and their open and friendly responses. Most important, and something I felt personally compelled to reaffirm, is the extreme inspiration that I felt (and I am not alone in saying this) at a chance to observe the amazing faith community that exists at St. John’s. That aspect alone has left an indelible impression on me.”

For me, it is truly an honor to serve as principal of this fine school. I carry on the work of the early Dominican Sisters who founded the school nearly 100 years ago, as well as walk hand in hand with so many today who make St. John the Baptist Catholic School such a unique place to educate children. As the final accreditation report states, “St. John the Baptist Catholic School is a close, cohesive community where parents, students and staff work together to create a safe, pleasant and academically challenging environment. The school is fortunate to be supported by the parish and the local business community. The school’s success for over 95 years is truly a reflection of a strong partnership between many generous and supportive people who genuinely care about educating children in a Catholic environment.” I would like to thank everyone, past and present, who has played a role in making St. John the Baptist Catholic School the success that it is today.

(Jordan is Principal of St. John the Baptist Catholic School.)