700
This course addresses the call from the Congregation of Education for educators and administration working in the Educational sector, to: a) understand and accept the teachings of Catholic identity and apostolic goals; b) apply the evangelizing mission to address diversity and educational change in Catholic schools; and c) define multiple strategies in the areas of curriculum, instruction, and administrative practice to serve the needs of students, families, Church, and communities and align those to theory and practice of Catholic social thought. Readings and case studies will draw upon the long and varied tradition of Catholicism as well as from "scientific studies promoted by members of the laity, from the work of Catholic movements and associations, and from the Church's practical achievements in the social field" (Centesimus annus, 4).
This course will focus on the individual candidate's professional plan. Candidates will define their local Bishop's expectations and use the information to develop an on-going plan of action for future growth, including professional development, institutional change, and personal formation. Candidates will return to Catholic social doctrine, applying key notions that include, but are not limited to: human dignity solidarity, subsidiarity, and the common good.
Working in partnership with Franciscan University faculty and educational leaders, candidates will continue the process of discovery and learning through their approved Action Research Project. Weekly seminars and modules wil be utilized to support the action research process for candidates. Progress on the individual projects will be shared throughout the semester.
Candidates in this course will apply their action research outcomes to update and inform their long-term plan for professional development, institutional change, and personal formation. Candidates may address the integration of this plan with special topics within school environments, including but not limited to special education, English language learners, affordability and access in Catholic education, school-diocese relations, etc. Where possible, candidates will seek to integrate their previously acquired knowledge of the Catholic vision of the human person and the principles of Catholic social doctrine.
Working in partnership with Franciscan University faculty and educational leaders, candidates will present the findings and conclusions of their approved Action Research Project. Weekly seminars and modules will be utilized to support the action research process for candidates.