The Catholic School Leaders Podcast

Host: John Mihalyo | Guest: Deacon Dave Kerski, Former Catholic School Principal, Diocese of RaleighWhat does it actually mean to be a Catholic school — not just in name, but in everything you do, every single day?Deacon Dave Kerski knows the difference. He spent ten years turning around a Catholic school in New Bern, North Carolina that was on the brink of closing. He earned his master's from Notre Dame's ACE program, served as a deacon, and built the kind of school culture that students, families, and teachers genuinely wanted to be a part of. Not by accident — by being relentlessly intentional about it.In this episode, Deacon Dave and John have a real conversation about what authentic Catholic identity actually looks like in a school building. Not the surface stuff. The deep stuff. The kind of culture that changes how kids grow up, how teachers show up, and how families understand what they are signing up for.Here is some of what they get into:Why Catholic identity is an anthropological question, not just a checklist of Catholic stuff you do How to build a school playbook that ties everything — from morning drop-off to the awards you give out — back to your root beliefs and core values What to do when a fourth grader asks you something you have no idea how to answer Why your eighth graders may have been at a Catholic school their whole life and still have a malformed conscience — and what to do about it The difference between Catholic culture and Catholic identity, and why getting that wrong will cost you How to build teacher formation that actually prepares your staff for the hard conversations kids are already having Why it is better to be a year too early than a minute too late when it comes to forming your students in the faith What AI in the classroom has to do with Catholic pedagogy — and why Catholic schools may have the upper hand if they take it seriously The one thing every Catholic school principal has to have in place before they can lead anyone elseIf you are a principal, pastor, superintendent, or school leader who has ever looked around and wondered whether your school is actually Catholic or just kind of Catholic — this one is going to give you a lot to think about and a lot to go do.Connect with John If you want to talk about your school — enrollment, advancement, culture, or whatever is keeping you up at night — head over to elementaryadvancement.com and let's set up a time to connect.If this episode was helpful, subscribe and share it with another Catholic school leader who needs to hear this. Thank you for everything you do for your students, your families, and the mission of Catholic education. Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance: As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

Title: New Workshop Coming December 11th!Host: John MihalyoEpisode OverviewIn this short episode, John introduces an upcoming free workshop for Catholic school leaders: “The Five Reasons Your School Is Consistently Missing Its Enrollment Goal.” The workshop will be held Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 12 PM EST and will break down the often-overlooked factors behind enrollment shortfalls—and how to correct them before they impact your budget and school stability.What You’ll Hear AboutWhy enrollment growth is the number one driver of school sustainabilityCommon mistakes that keep schools from hitting enrollment goalsThe stress schools face when they enter a new year under-enrolledHow strengthening your enrollment systems can turn stress into stabilityDetails on how to register for this free workshop and what you’ll gain from attendingWorkshop RegistrationRegister for the free December 11th workshop at www.elementaryadvancement.com — and explore additional resources while you're there.Want Personalized Support?Want to reach out directly to talk more about their enrollment challenges and how coaching can help? Click here to set up a time! Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance: As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

Catholic School Leaders PodcastHost: John MihalyoIn this episode, John talks about an often–overlooked part of fundraising events: what happens after the gala, dinner, or major celebration ends. He walks advancement directors and school leaders through the importance of gathering your team soon after the event to reflect, celebrate, and identify opportunities for improvement.In This EpisodeWhy every major event needs a post-event auditThe key questions to guide your reflection:What worked—and why?What didn’t work—and why not?What should we keep, stop, or change for next year?How honest feedback builds stronger events and stronger cultureWhy involving event chairs, committee members, and parent volunteers leads to better insightsHow reflection helps refresh stale traditions and spark new energyConnect With JohnWant help reviewing your recent event or planning for the next one?Visit www.elementaryadvancement.comClick here to set up a time to meet with John Mihalyo! Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance: As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

Episode Title: Building A.I. Literacy in Our Catholic SchoolsHost: John Mihalyo • Guest: Chelsea Lopez (The Social Institute)Overview:AI is here to stay—and your school can use it without losing the human touch. John and Chelsea unpack what AI really is, where it already shows up, and practical ways leaders can use it to save time, personalize learning, and strengthen culture.Key Takeaways:Simple definition of AI and why it matters nowTeacher time-savers (ideas, differentiation, drafts) without outsourcing judgmentStudent ownership: how to disclose AI use on assignmentsTiered, ongoing PD beats one-and-done workshopsBuild living policies: involve students/families, pilot first, revise oftenClear parent communication prevents confusion and builds trustResources:The Social InstituteConnect & Next Steps:Want help crafting AI PD, communication, or policy for your school? Book a 30-min call with John. Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance: As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

Episode Title: Creating Memories Through Catholic School TraditionsShow Notes:Welcome back to another short but impactful episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast. In this episode, John Mihalyo reflects on the power of school traditions and how they shape culture, community, and memories that last a lifetime.Drawing on his own story of working at an amphitheater—where fans always expected to hear the most beloved songs—John compares those expectations to the cherished traditions within Catholic schools. Just like a concert wouldn’t feel the same without the classics, our schools wouldn’t feel complete without those meaningful traditions that students, parents, and alumni look forward to year after year.From senior sunrise and sunset ceremonies to long-standing celebrations unique to each community, traditions build excitement, strengthen culture, and give families something to anticipate and remember. John also reminds leaders to distinguish between traditions worth celebrating and practices that exist only because “that’s the way we’ve always done it.”Key Takeaways:Traditions create lasting memories and foster a strong, positive school culture.Students, parents, and alumni look forward to these moments and often measure their school experience by them.Not all traditions are equal—leaders must protect those that truly build community while letting go of outdated practices without purpose.Sharing traditions through storytelling and communication strengthens school pride and alumni connection.Call to Action:If you’d like to talk about how to strengthen culture, enrollment, and advancement at your Catholic school, schedule a time with John here. Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance: As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

Episode Title: The Power of Personal Connections in Our Catholic SchoolsIn this short episode of the Catholic School Leaders Podcast, John shares a simple but powerful lesson for Catholic school leaders—why personal connection matters more than ever.Drawing from his recent experience of switching insurance agents, John highlights the parallels between customer service in business and the way Catholic schools communicate with families. Too often, schools only reach out when money is due or when something is needed. But that kind of transactional relationship doesn’t inspire loyalty—or retention.Instead, John challenges leaders to think about how their schools can:Go beyond financial transactions to build authentic, ongoing relationships with families.Celebrate and communicate good news regularly, not just when you need something.Create opportunities for personal connection that inspire parents to share their positive experiences with others.Avoid waiting until families decide to leave before addressing concerns—by being proactive and present.This episode is a quick reminder that relationships are the heartbeat of Catholic school advancement and enrollment. When families feel seen, valued, and connected, they don’t just stay—they become your best ambassadors.Resources & Next StepsWant help strengthening your school’s messaging and parent engagement? Schedule a call with John to talk through strategies.Subscribe to the Catholic School Leaders Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes filled with practical insights for your school. Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance: As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.

🎙️ Episode Title: Thank You Without Asking: A Gratitude Call👤 Host: John Mihalyo🎧 Episode Summary:In this heartfelt short episode, John shares a touching story about receiving an unexpected message from a former student—a reminder of the lasting impact Catholic school leaders have. Inspired by that moment, John challenges fellow principals, advancement directors, and Catholic educators to pause and do something powerful: reach out and say thank you.No agenda. No ask. Just a sincere word of appreciation.Whether it’s a parent ambassador, generous donor, or someone who consistently shows up for your school, today’s episode is a call to recognize and celebrate the people who make our school communities special.💡 What You’ll Take Away:A reminder of the lasting influence you have on your students—even years later.A challenge to reconnect with key supporters of your school.Why gratitude without an ask can deepen trust and build stronger relationships.Simple ideas for who to thank and how to make it meaningful.✅ Action Step:Today, pick 2–3 people who’ve made a difference for your school.📞 Call, text, or email them just to say:“Thank you. I appreciate you.”No ask. No campaign. Just gratitude.🙏 Final Thought:This vocation is sacred—and we never do it alone. Don’t wait until the end of the year or the next gala to show appreciation. The best day to say thank you is today.☕ Let’s Connect📅 Book a virtual coffee with me and let’s talk about how to bring more collaboration into your leadership. Learn more about today's sponsor, Renaissance: As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student. Learn more at renaissance.com.