Like most schools in the region, Kuemper Catholic School System students head back to class on Wednesday, Aug. 23. President John Steffes says their maintenance staff took advantage of the summer break to complete renovations at Kuemper’s three buildings.
In March of 2022, Kuemper launched its Faith Forward Capital Campaign. The campaign broke its initial “Celebration Goal” of $6.5 million in less than six months. In January, they sailed past the $9.5 million “Challenge Goal,” and Steffes says they are well on their way to the $12 million “Victory Goal.”
Funds generated through the campaign will be used to complete significant and overdue improvements to HVAC systems, classroom renovations, and much more. Steffes says the long-awaiting implementation of state educational savings accounts (ESAs) has been an exciting new experience for staff and families.
According to Steffes, ESAs resulted in a one or two-percent increase in total enrollment for Kuemper. Steffes says Kuemper is fully staffed for the new year with six new teachers, but the hiring challenges seen in public schools statewide are just as serious for parochial schools.
Staff were back to work on Thursday for professional development. Kuemper’s annual family fun night is set for Monday, Aug. 21, beginning at 5 p.m. Classes for the Knights start on Wednesday, Aug. 23. Steffes invites students and families to take advantage of all the opportunities a new school year offers. Check out www.kuemper.org for regular updates about activity schedules, upcoming events, and more.
