Over the course of the past two school years, St. Joseph Catholic School has collected data in the form of parent feedback, standardized testing and teacher input. We have utilized the information to ensure that our school continues on the path of consistent improvement. Some of the actions that have been taken as a result of the information include the following:

One concern that we confirmed is “The preparation of students for high school math.” This year our middle school has introduced an increase in differentiation for math instruction. Savvas textbooks and resources were purchased, summer curriculum planning was held and a team approach with Mrs. Matuszak and Mrs. VanVreede analyzing instruction has benefited our middle school students and their preparation for high school math. Furthermore, our elementary staff is currently reviewing the same series to determine if it provides students with the opportunity to strengthen their math skills.

Another concern that has been addressed is “The consistency of instruction from grade level to grade level.” During teacher inservice and through after school meetings, our staff has been working on curriculum mapping to ensure that grade levels maximize student growth. This has been done (and continues to be worked on) in Reading, Math and Science.

“Communication with families” is an area that our data indicated we needed to strengthen. An updated school website has been developed and teaching staff has been vigilant in providing families with information on their individual classrooms. In her role as assistant principal, Mrs. VanVreede, as well as Mrs. Taubner, has helped to ensure that family concerns are addressed from the school office in a timely manner. Finally, we are currently working on increasing the utilization of PowerSchool to provide families with information throughout the school year.

“Enrollment of families at St. Joseph Catholic School” As Catholic Schools face the uncertainty of enrollment numbers, many of our current families have expressed concern about the enrollment at our school. Because of this concern, we are currently focusing on the marketing of St. Joseph Catholic School. A more robust Catholic Schools Week was held this year. There has been an increase in new families either attending or considering St. Joseph Catholic School for their children and our School Committee continues to look for ways to promote our school (look for details on our participation in The Memorial Day Parade in the near future).

“Ensuring that the Catholic identity of our school is prevalent” We recognize that our Catholic identity is a fundamental reason that families choose to have their children attend a Catholic School. Fr. Justin has been instrumental in ensuring that our students have the benefit of all that Our Faith offers. His presence in the school and instruction in the classroom has increased our students’ exposure to the richness of our Catholic Faith (students received a deeper understanding of The Sacrament of Baptism over the past couple of weeks). Furthermore, our Advent and Lenten School Committees continue to provide student activities and prayers during the appropriate liturgical seasons.

“Clarity on expectations and guidelines for students and families” has been communicated as an area to strengthen. A review of the family handbook has occurred and will be implemented for the 2025-26 school year. All components were reviewed and shared with The School Committee as well as the collection of input from parents and staff in the development of the handbook. Additional staff has been working to ensure that we are more prepared to assist families in the application process for School Choice.

In the Spring of 2026, St. Joseph Catholic School will go through the accreditation process required by The Milwaukee Archdiocese. This process has our staff working to gather information and review the overall offerings of our school. The focus that our staff has placed on this process will be of benefit to our school and students now and into the future.

Strengths of our school were also identified as the foundation of our continued growth. The commitment of our teaching staff, the extended offerings of Spanish Class, a school counselor, the expansion of field trips and the ‘family atmosphere’ provide our school with the baseline to enrich the student experience at our school.

Our staff will continue to solicit input from families and analyze student data in an effort to remain in the constant school improvement mindset. St. Joseph is an outstanding school that will always look to become even better. Finally, updates will be provided on the actions taken with the information gathered.

Thank you for your continued support of our school and the opportunity to work with your children.

Chris Multhauf

Principal

The 8th grade carnival, “Jurassic Jamboree” was a success, teaching the 8th graders much about organizing an event, budgeting and finances, using their creativity and art skills as well as “customer service” and so much more! All this and they were able to raise money for a worthy cause, St. Ben’s Meal Program! Thanks, 8th graders for an enjoyable time had by all the grades!