by Kary Ellen Berger

Hope and possibility are shaping the future of Catholic education in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. In classrooms across the region, teachers form not only strong students, but young people who understand their purpose and potential. Superintendent Matt Daniels believes this work reaches far beyond academics, that it’s about helping children grow into people who strengthen their communities and, ultimately, strive for heaven.

That mission-centered focus contributed to six consecutive years of enrollment increases across the archdiocese, as many dioceses nationwide struggle to stabilize numbers. Daniels sees in the local gains a sign of a deep, renewed trust. He credits strong school cultures, dedicated educators, and families who share their positive experiences with others.

“Parents telling other parents has always been the best and most sincere way to attract new families,” said Daniels.

Scholarship opportunities, such as Ohio’s EdChoice and Jon Peterson programs and Scholarship Granting Organizations, also opened doors for more families. The Catholic Education Foundation contributes more than $2.25 million in additional aid annually.

Daniels believes that strengthening Catholic identity works hand-in-hand with welcoming all families. Catholic schools, he explained, reveal truth, goodness, and beauty to every student who walks through the doors. “The culture we work to create helps young people encounter the risen Lord, which speaks to the minds and hearts of all our students,” he said.

He draws inspiration for his role from his own athletic experiences: teammates changed each year, but intentional leadership sustained success.

“Great leaders create great cultures,” said Daniels.

To that end, one persistent misconception Daniels hopes to dispel is that educators in a Catholic school must “take a vow of poverty.” Salaries have increased significantly, such that many are now competitive with public school systems. More importantly, Catholic school teachers are supported as both educators and ministers.

“We work to help form and inform our teachers so they can reach their full potential as co-workers in this part of the Lord’s vineyard,” said Daniels.

New teacher formation programs, ongoing professional learning, and dedicated days for spiritual renewal all work together to support and strengthen mission-driven educators. That support extends beyond career teachers to include those stepping into the classroom from completely different fields, helping all of them bring their gifts into the distinctive rhythm and mission of Catholic education.

As schools expand STEM programs and adopt new technologies, Daniels emphasizes that Catholic identity is not an “addition” to the curriculum but is woven through it.

“The truth of a linear equation, the goodness of a virtuous character in literature, or the beauty of a harmonious piece of music are all glimpses of God’s attributes,” Daniels said.

Above all, he is inspired in his role by the saints and educators who shaped the Church’s rich tradition of learning. Their example strengthens his own vocation.

“Those of us fortunate enough to serve in a Catholic school are stewards of a tradition influenced by some of the world’s best minds and greatest saints,” said Daniels.

Their stories, like the students in today’s classrooms, point toward great things, and the Archdiocese of Cincinnati is working to help reach them.