A Change in the Works for Belleville Catholic Schools?

BELLEVILLE --A new joint operating system that includes a superintendent and a single-tuition structure is being proposed for the six Catholic elementary schools in Belleville.

The proposal was created by the Catholic Education Initiative, a consortium of Belleville religious people, parishioners, educators and community members that was formed in 2005 to design a plan for the future of Belleville's Catholic schools in response to declining enrollment and school closures.

Called the Association of Christian Faithful, or ACF, the new group would include a nine-member executive board, a governance or general board, and an operating officer who will function like a district superintendent.

The association would be incorporated as a nonprofit organization and would oversee school finances including budgets and tuition structures, purchasing, personnel, academics, student services, technology and building and grounds

The proposal will be submitted for approval to Bishop Edward K. Braxton in the next few months and is expected to be implemented in the 2008-2009 school year.