Six Catholic schools join to form system

Staff report

Youngstown

Monday marked the official start of Lumen Christi Catholic Schools, a newly formed system of Catholic elementary schools and preschools in the Mahoning Valley.

The system comprises six elementary schools: St. Patrick in Hubbard, St. Nicholas in Struthers, St. Joseph-Immaculate Heart of Mary in Austintown, St. Christine in Youngstown, St. Charles in Boardman, Holy Family in Poland; and Early Childhood Learning Center at St. Luke in Boardman, Holy Family and St. Christine.

After years of planning and collaboration, the new system is in place for the upcoming 2013-14 school year.

In Latin, Lumen Christi means Light of Christ. The name Lumen Christi Catholic Schools reflects how these Catholic schools are lighting the way to a bright future for students, according to officials.

This bright future is built on a solid foundation of academic excellence and a nurturing environment of mutual respect, which enables children to reach their full potential, they said.

Lois Cavucci, president of Lumen Christi, emphasizes the importance of a Catholic education in today’s society.

“Children today are being raised in a community where they are challenged on a daily basis by what they see and hear through social media and TV,” she said in a news release. “In our Catholic schools, we work to create a safe and caring foundation that allows them to successfully navigate through the trials and tribulations they will face in today’s society.”

Lumen Christi Catholic Schools is committed to ensuring that a Catholic education remains a valued and viable option for families in the Mahoning Valley, now and in the future.

As a system, these Catholic schools will enhance their Catholic identity, reinforce their academic offerings and utilize their resources more efficiently and effectively. Each school will benefit from consolidated purchasing, collaboration, shared resources and mutual support. Information is available at LumenChristiCatholicSchools.org.